EASTON, Pa. – Northampton County Council approved an ordinance for the extension of non-discrimination protections and the creation of a human relations commission Thursday night at the administration building.
The ordinance makes it illegal to discriminate in employment, housing, health care, education and public accommodations based on protected classes. This includes race, religion, sex, veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity and domestic violence victim status.
In order to provide stronger protections for more classes of people, the ordinance also provides for the formation of a county human relations commission similar to that of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, according to a news release.
The commission will consist of seven members appointed by the county executive, subject to County Council approval. Members will reflect the diversity of protected classes, the county said.
The commission will investigate discrimination allegations and impose possible penalties, such as fines or restitution. If the commission finds following an investigation that a complaint of discrimination is substantiated, it can fine the offender up to $600.
“The county has a vested interest in protecting the rights of all of its residents,” County Executive Tara Zrinski said in a statement. “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.”
“You have the right to live your life; you have the right to hold a job, to live in your home, regardless of who you are,” Commissioner Jason Boulette said. “I don’t think that’s radical. I don’t think that’s drastic. I think that’s basic fairness.”
“For anyone to say this measure is redundant or that discrimination isn’t happening in our local communities is 100% incorrect,” said Commissioner Jeff Warren. “…This is about fairness.”
“When I look at this document before us, the human relations ordinance, I don’t just see a legal text; I see a promise,” Commissioner Nadeem Qayyum said.
The legislation will also add safeguards for those with physical and mental disabilities, who often struggle to find jobs and housing, according to the news release.
“Under this ordinance, an employer can evaluate whether an applicant can perform the duties of the job,” said 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.”
Prior to the vote, council received public comment on the bill.
“Choosing justice takes courage,” said Grace Heard. “This ordinance is a shield that protects nearly every person in this room at some point.”
“This is a time to come together and unilaterally pass this important resolution,” said Thomas Gilmour. “We’ve heard how imperative it is for local governments to step up and protect the most vulnerable among us.”
The county’s news release noted that the Lehigh Valley Justice Initiative’s Joe Welsh and Corinne Goodwin — a founding member of Keystone Equality and executive director of Eastern PA Trans Equity Project — also supported adoption of the ordinance.