Employment Law: Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation is an unfortunate occurrence that happens quite often in workplaces.  Sexual orientation discrimination is unlawful and is initiated when an employer discriminates against an applicant or employee because the applicant or employee is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. The Leichter Law Firm, APC advocates for individuals suffering discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, if you feel you have a case, contact your Los Angeles Employment Law attorney today.

Here’s a more detailed explanation of sexual orientation discrimination laws and policies at various levels.

Federal Law

Although federal laws protect people from workplace discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, religion, sex, age, and disability, there is no federal law that specifically bans sexual orientation discrimination in the private sector. There have been attempts to pass such federal laws, but they have been unsuccessful.

State Laws

There is a bright side at the state level. Almost half the states and the District of Columbia have laws that currently prohibit sexual orientation discrimination in both public and private jobs: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.  In addition, a few states have laws prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination in public workplaces only.

Local Laws

For states who do not have laws against workplace discrimination, some cities and counties have laws that can protect such cases. Many cities and counties prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in at least some workplaces.

Company policies

Companies have taken it themselves to initiate their own policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. These policies prohibit such conduct and often provide disciplinary guidelines for dealing managers who discriminate, up to and including termination of employment.

We have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the complex legal issues that you may face. Our southern California office is located in the mid-Wilshire area, just west of downtown LA.  Call 213-381-6557 or email us today.