The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is inviting members of the public, advocacy organizations, housing providers, educators, employers, and other stakeholders to submit comments on its updated Assistance, Emotional Support, and Service Animal Guidance. Public comments will be accepted via an online survey from October 1 through November 15, 2026.
The guidance outlines how the PHRC evaluates cases involving service animals, emotional support animals, and other assistance animals across housing, education, public accommodations (places open to the public, like stores, restaurants, amusement parks, schools, colleges, and universities), commercial properties, and employment. It clarifies important definitions, reasonable accommodation standards, verification procedures, and limitations on when an animal may be excluded due to direct threat or undue hardship.
Click here to read the guidance and for information on how to submit comments or attend a listening session.