[Northampton County, PA] – Northampton County Council voted “yes” on a non-discrimination ordinance that promotes the rights and opportunities of all persons to participate in the social, cultural, recreational, and economic life of the County. In order to provide stronger protections for more classes of people, the Ordinance provides for the formation of a County Human Relations Commission similar to the Human Relations Commission of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Commission will receive and investigate claims of discrimination occurring in Northampton County and enforce non-discrimination requirements.

“The County has a vested interest in protecting the rights of all of its residents,” said County Executive Tara Zrinski. “Our strength as a county comes from the diversity of our residents, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and participate in community life without fear of discrimination.”

The protected classes as defined in the ordinance include the following: actual or perceived race, ethnicity, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, familial status, GED rather than high school diploma, or mental disability, relationship or association with a disabled person, source of income, age, height, weight, veteran status, use of guide or support animals and/or mechanical aids, or domestic or sexual violence victim status.

The Human Relations Commission is authorized under Pennsylvania state law. Several nearby counties, including Lehigh County and Delaware County, have non-discrimination ordinances. The Commission consists of consists of seven members appointed by the County Executive, subject to County Council approval. Members will reflect the diversity of protected classes. If the Commission finds following an investigation that a complaint of discrimination is substantiated, it can fine the offender up to $600.

The legislation will add safeguards for those with physical and mental disabilities, who often struggle to find jobs and housing. “Under this Ordinance, an employer can evaluate whether an applicant can perform the duties of the job,” said County Commissioner Jason Boulette. “But they can’t refuse to hire someone because of a disability. And this will ensure that reasonable modifications can be made in housing when it’s needed for someone with a disability.”

The Ordinance had support from members of the public, including Lehigh Valley Justice Initiative’s Joe Welsh. He encouraged the creation of a human relations commission, noting that federal and state agencies that oversee discrimination complaints are overwhelmed and it can take over a year for those agencies to investigate and resolve complaints.

“This will not only protect Northampton County residents in regards to employment, housing, and education, but it will also send a message that everyone belongs and no one will be discriminated against here,” said Corrine Goodwin, a founding member of Keystone Equality and Executive Director of Eastern PA Trans Equity Project.

Information provided to TVL by:
Northampton County