WILKES-BARRE, PA — Luzerne County Council is set to begin public discussions Tuesday on the structure of a new enforcement commission tasked with adjudicating complaints under the county’s newly passed anti-discrimination ordinance.
The council must proceed with establishing the framework for the 13-member volunteer commission despite a parallel effort by a citizen group collecting signatures to halt the ordinance and force a referendum on the ballot for voters to decide its fate.
If created, the commission would consist of county residents appointed by the County Council to staggered four-year terms. Members must be U.S. citizens, maintain residency throughout their terms, and cannot serve as elected officers in any political party.
The debate over the ordinance has drawn sharp divide throughout the county:
- Supporters contend the local ordinance is vital to closing legal gaps by extending discrimination protections to classes not covered under state or federal laws. Proponents also argue a local body can resolve complaints far more quickly than the heavily backlogged state processing system.
- Critics argue the county should focus strictly on its mandatory operational responsibilities rather than expanding its reach. They point to risks of increased legal expense, potential liability, and government overreach.
If the citizen referendum campaign fails to collect the required signatures, the commission will move forward to handle local intake, investigation, and enforcement of complaints. However, if the petition drive succeeds, the ordinance—and the need for an enforcement commission—could ultimately end up on the ballot.
