Supreme Court Rules LGBTQ Employees are Protected From Job Discrimination

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees for being homosexual or transgender. In a 6-3 decision, the Court’s majority said these workers are protected against discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The landmark ruling resolves a long-standing and complicated debate.

OMA Connections Partner Thompson Hine suggests that employers consider the following actions in response to this week’s Court action:

• Review policies relating to non-discrimination and equal employment;
• Amend equal employment opportunity policy to incorporate a statement that the business does not discriminate or retaliate against applicants or employees based on sex, sexual orientation, sexuality, transgender status, or gender identity or expression;
• Implement training for managers or others who regularly interview applicants; and
• Remind human resources staff to maintain records of sex-related medical conditions as confidential medical records under the ADA.

See guidance from other OMA Connections Partners, including Frantz Ward, Dinsmore, and Roetzel. 6/15/2020