An effort to overturn Luzerne County’s anti-discrimination ordinance is advancing after a petition gathered ample support from local residents. The recent verification of over 15,000 signatures has set the stage for a potential vote on the ordinance’s future.
Sharon Lawrence, the Clerk of County Council, confirmed the petition garnered enough verified signatures to proceed to the next feasible election. Walter Griffith, leading the petitioner committee, expressed that the public has made its stance clear, urging the county council to acknowledge their voice. Click here to read more about the petition.
The residents of Luzerne County now have a 10-day window to challenge the validity of the signatures. Initially submitted on August 10 by Griffith’s committee, the petition included 13,506 signatures, which, when added to an earlier submission of 1,899 signatures, totaled 15,405—far exceeding the required 11,615 signatures necessary under the county’s home rule charter.
Upcoming Council Vote
The ordinance in question broadens discrimination protections to groups such as those based on gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, and both physical and mental disabilities. Originally passed by the council with a 7-4 vote in June, the ordinance now faces reconsideration due to the petition’s success.
County council is compelled to vote again on the ordinance following the 10-day challenge period. Council Chair Jimmy Sabatino remarked on the significance of the opposition, noting that while the number of signatures is substantial, it represents less than 5% of the county’s population. Sabatino emphasized the importance of a more comprehensive public discourse before considering reversing the council’s decision.
He stated, “I will continue to explain why I support this ordinance, and make the case for why I believe it is right for Luzerne County. But if this question is ultimately put before the voters, I will respect their decision, whatever the outcome.”
Potential Challenges to Signatures
With the opportunity to challenge the petition’s signatures, residents can inspect the documents at Lawrence’s office, provided they agree not to misuse the voter registration information. Chris Belles, a council member, had previously contested the initial petition and intends to examine the complete set of signatures.
As the fate of the ordinance hangs in the balance, stakeholders on both sides prepare for the potential outcomes of the upcoming council vote and any further public involvement. For those interested in the ongoing developments, further details are available here.
