ELC Comments on PHRC Proposed Guidance for Evaluating Claims of Bullying & Harassment under the PHRA

On August 29, 2024 ELC submitted comments to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) regarding their proposed Guidance on Evaluating Claims of Bullying and Harassment Under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA). ELC strongly supports the proposed guidance as an important vehicle for clarifying the rights and protections of students. Additionally, ELC recommends that the proposed guidance be revised to delineate and further clarify the definition and nature of harassment, the scope of schools’ liability, to ensure investigations are prompt, independent and comprehensive, and ensure schools proactively implement correction action. We believe that these changes are important to prevent and address the lasting negative impact that harassment and bullying can have on a child’s education.