A Matter of Practice

Most employers don’t set out to violate civil rights laws. Problems usually come from policies that are outdated, borrowed from templates, or enforced inconsistently as a business grows. The challenge is that both Michigan and federal laws focus less on intent and more on how workplace rules affect employees.

Federal laws like Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act shape everyday employment decisions. Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act goes further, protecting not only race, sex, age, and disability but also marital status, height, and weight, categories that often surprise employers. Together, these laws influence far more than hiring and firing.

Even well-meaning policies can create risk. Job requirements that seem reasonable may unintentionally screen out qualified candidates, and informal recruiting methods can quietly limit who applies. Performance management may seem fair, but inconsistent discipline or uneven documentation can raise questions. Attendance and scheduling policies may appear neutral, yet they can conflict with obligations to accommodate disabilities, pregnancy-related limitations, or religious practices.

Accommodation requests (whether for disability, religion, or pregnancy) generally require a good-faith, interactive process. Issues arise when requests are denied without discussion or handled inconsistently. Even dress codes or appearance policies can create exposure if they enforce gender-based expectations or conflict with religious practices.

Workforce policies aren’t just administrative tools—they reflect how a business manages people and makes decisions. When Michigan and federal civil rights requirements are built into policies from the start, employers are far better positioned to reduce risk and address issues thoughtfully before they turn into disputes.

If you’re unsure how your policies measure up, a quick review with an experienced employment attorney can give you confidence and peace of mind. Contact us today at 248.477.6300.