Chester County, Pennsylvania Ban the Box / Non-Discrimination Ordinance
The Basics
Location: Chester County, PA
Legislation: Ordinance No 2025-03
Type: Ban the Box / Non-Discrimination
Effective: December 23, 2025
Key Takeaways
In addition to Pennsylvania state requirements:
· Employers may only ask about or consider an applicant’s criminal history after an initial interview.
· Employers may not consider conviction records which do not relate to an applicant’s suitability for employment.
Can employers take adverse action based in whole or in part on criminal record information?
Yes, provided they follow the requirements as outlined in the Ordinance. After a first interview, an employer may reject an applicant only if they determine that the applicant’s criminal conviction(s) directly relates to their suitability for employment.
What steps must an employer take if they are considering taking adverse action?
If an employer intends to reject an applicant based in whole or in part on their criminal history, they must provide written notification to the applicant.
Are there any exemptions?
If the law requires a job to be free of certain convictions, employers can ask about those specific crimes —but only as permitted by law. We recommend reviewing with your legal counsel to confirm if your organization meets the exemptions as defined in the Ordinance.
Are there any penalties for violations?
Yes, an employer who is found by the Chester County Human Relations Commission to have violated this Ordinance may be required to change their practices, make restitution, and/or pay a fine not to exceed $500.
Recommendations
We recommend employers review and discuss with your legal counsel your organization’s policies and procedures to ensure continued compliance with the changing laws and regulations.
Please note: The information provided above is strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to be legal advice, either expressed or implied. Accurate recommends that you consult with your legal counsel regarding all employment regulations.