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Chester County Bans Discrimination: First Collar County to Act

9/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Chester County approved an ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, creating a Human Relations Commission; it takes effect in December.
The 2-1 vote was party-line, making Chester County the first collar county in Philadelphia to exceed state and federal protections.
Public comments were largely supportive; Commissioner Eric Roe voted against, citing redundancy with existing protections.

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Story summary

Chester County approved an ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, creating a Human Relations Commission; it takes effect in December.
The 2-1 vote was party-line, making Chester County the first collar county in Philadelphia to exceed state and federal protections.
Public comments were largely supportive; Commissioner Eric Roe voted against, citing redundancy with existing protections.