Governor Tom Wolf joined the state's LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Tuesday to introduce anti-discrimination legislation that would expand protections for the LGBTQ+ community.
The PA Fairness Act would prohibit discrimination over a person's sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
During a press conference outside the Pennsylvania State Capitol Tuesday, Wolf said though there are currently some protections, they are not comprehensive.
LGBTQ+ people can still be denied housing, education, and public accommodations based on their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
"It remains an embarrassment for Pennsylvania that we stand out among our neighboring states for failing to provide basic civil rights protections for Pennsylvanians," Wolf said.
State Rep. Jessica Benham (D-36) represents Allegheny County and is the only LGBTQ+ female in the state legislature. She noted current protections are also inconsistent at the municipal, state and federal levels.
"Depending on what side of a county line I'm standing on, I may or may not have legal protection," she said. "Passing the PA Fairness Act will provide long-needed protections and affirmations to our community.
In 2016, Wolf signed two executive orders that expanded protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression for state employees and employees of contractors doing business with the commonwealth.