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October 29, 2025
The Chester County Board of Commissioners recently took a meaningful step to protect against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations within Chester County. Through its adoption of The Chester County Human Relations Ordinance (ORD-2025-03) (“Ordinance”), the Board of Commissioners created the Chester County Human Relations Commission (“CCHRC”) to address and remedy perceived gaps in the protections under state and federal law. The Ordinance notes that the Board of Commissioners “is committed to promoting the rights and opportunities of all persons to participate in the social, cultural, recreational, and economic life in Chester County and to assure equal opportunity for all persons concerning employment, housing, and public accommodations.” The Ordinance takes effect on Dec. 23, 2025. Montgomery and Delaware Counties also recently approved similar human relations commissions.
The Ordinance is modeled after the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) and expands the protected classes to include protection for individuals based on, among other things, gender identity, gender expression, marital or familial status, veteran status, source of income, and domestic or sexual violence victim status.
The County Commissioners will appoint between seven and 13 volunteer members—with an odd number of members at all times—to sit on the CCHRC, who will have staggered three-year terms. Eligible applicants include Chester County residents, employees, and business owners.
The Commission will have investigatory powers and will be tasked with reviewing, mediating, and adjudicating discrimination claims in housing, employment, and public accommodations. The Commission may issue certain remedies, including cease-and-desist orders, restitution, and civil fines of up to $500. Any determination by the Commission will be appealable to the Chester County Court of Common Pleas.
Businesses within Chester County should audit and update their policies and handbooks before December 23, 2025, to ensure compliance.
This article is designed to provide one perspective regarding recent legal developments, and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Always consult an attorney with specific legal issues.
