What does the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on LGBTQ employment discrimination mean for employers?

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Protections

Until now, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer employees had to rely on a mix of state nondiscrimination laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity, along with a handful of federal court rulings in favor of gay and transgender employees.

LGBTQ people who live in one of the 25 states that offer no explicit protections against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity can now file a lawsuit in federal court against their employer. Employers that violate Title VII may face costly legal actions.

What Employers Need to Know

Employers cannot make employment decisions, such as hiring, terminating, salary, promotions and more on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Employers should review their policies, procedures, practices and training to ensure they are up to date and reflect the expansion of protection to LGBTQ people under the federal law as well as state and local laws. 

Employers with less than 15 employees will continue to be governed by applicable state and local anti-discrimination laws. Gig workers who are correctly classified as independent contractors, however, generally aren't covered by anti-discrimination and other laws that protect employees.

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