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Pennsylvania law

Employment Laws in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania is an at-will employment state with recognized exceptions for public policy, implied contract, and the duty of good faith. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits employment discrimination and covers employers with 4 or more employees — broader than federal Title VII. Pennsylvania's minimum wage is $7.25/hour (same as federal), though some municipalities have set higher minimums for city employees and contractors.

Last verified: 2026-02-25

State law

Statute of Limitations

180 days (PHRC charge); 2 years (civil suit)43 P.S. § 959 (PHRA § 9)

Employment discrimination complaints under the PHRA must be filed with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act. A private civil action may be filed within 2 years.

State law

Key Pennsylvania Statutes

Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA)43 P.S. § 955 (PHRA § 5)

Prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age (40+), sex, national origin, disability, and use of guide/support animals. Covers employers with 4 or more employees. Enforced by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

Protects employees who report or refuse to participate in wrongdoing, waste, or violations of law by their employer. Remedies include reinstatement, back pay, and attorney's fees. Must file within 180 days of the retaliatory action.

Minimum Wage Act43 P.S. § 333.104 (Minimum Wage Act § 4)

Pennsylvania's minimum wage is $7.25/hour (same as federal minimum). Tipped employees minimum is $2.83/hour. Philadelphia and some other municipalities have set higher minimums for city employees and contractors but do not have general local minimum wage authority.

Wage Payment and Collection Law43 P.S. § 260.1 et seq.

Requires employers to pay all wages due on regular paydays. Separated employees must be paid by the next regular payday. Employees can recover unpaid wages plus 25% liquidated damages and reasonable attorney's fees.

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.

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