Lower Merion passes anti-bias measure

The Lower Merion Township Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance Wednesday night to establish an anti-discrimination commission.

The commission would oversee new protections extended to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people not currently shielded under state law. In Pennsylvania, 17 other municipalities have enacted similar ordinances prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

The Lower Merion Human Relations Commission will have seven members. It will be able to preside over mediations, as well as conduct investigations and issue orders and fines. Rulings may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas.

   - Robert Moran