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Michigan’s Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act – Update

On March 8th, the Michigan Senate passed an amendment to the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act.  Elliott Larsen, passed in 1977, provides protection from discrimination based on religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial or marital status.  Previously passed by the House, the new amendment adds LGBTQ rights to that list.

 

If you’re wondering, “wasn’t this already included?”  The answer is yes, sort of.  Last summer, the Michigan Supreme Court determined that the definition of “sex” in the law included protections for LGBTQ individuals.  This amendment codifies that decision into law and would make it more difficult for a future court to overturn that decision.

 

What’s next?  The governor has already said that she will sign the bill so it will be going into effect shortly. 

 

As an employer, you should check your handbook and antidiscrimination policies to ensure that they include protections for LGBTQ folks.  They should already be there.  If not, now’s the time to make an update.

 

Have questions?  Give us a call, we’re happy to help.

Kevin Brozovich

SPHR | CHIEF PEOPLE ADVISOR

Meet Kevin Brozovich, energetic entrepreneur, people-focused team-builder and HR practitioner-turned consultant. For almost 10 years, Kevin was Founder and Chief People Officer of HRM Innovations, a Kalamazoo-based Human Resources consulting firm many would consider the top in the region. After pulling his hair out making daily decisions about running the business (does it matter where the coffee comes from?), Kevin joined forces with the Rose Street Advisors team so he could solely focus on what he loves most: working with clients.

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