The Royal Oak City Commission recently approved an ordinance which would prohibit discrimination against individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity (among other characteristics) in employment, housing and public accommodations.

The ordinance is currently on hold, as voters have gathered enough signatures to delay its enactment. The delay will provide an opportunity for opponents to gather additional signatures to place the ordinance on the ballot for voters to decide.

Several other Michigan communities have already enacted and implemented similar local laws, including Ann Arbor, Ferndale, and Birmingham. This issue serves as a reminder that business owners must be mindful of changes in the legal landscape – even at the local level – and would be well advised to consult an attorney before taking action that might adversely impact a current or prospective employee.

Please contact Wright Beamer if you have any questions about employment discrimination or employment policies.