Gender Identity Now Protected in Erie County

from Michael Mahler

On May 29, 2018, Erie County Council voted 7-0 to amend the Erie County Human Relations Commission ordinance to include gender identity, as well as criminal background and source of income. Sexual orientation has been included since March 8, 2002. The new policy went into effect immediately. This covers discrimination in the areas of employment, housing and public accommodations.

The class of criminal background was actually the only controversial class to be added. The new policy says that "any consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job, lease or loan."