The US Supreme Court’s decision on Monday of extending the protections of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to apply to gay and transgender workers is being considered a historic ruling. Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills says it may result in unknown ramifications.
“It’s not clear how does this impact religious institutions, nonprofits, or any ordinary place of business in an employment decision in retaining or releasing an employee,” said Mills.
Mills says this could result in an uptick of lawsuits between workers and their employers.
“A claim or a cause of action can be brought if they are simply speaking to their sexual orientation or practices and now that’s a protected category, so I think it is creating a litigation-rich field,” said Mills.
Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party Stephen Handwerk says this decision means that LGBTQ individuals can now go to work with the peace of mind knowing that they have every right to be there.
“Just as anyone else, in that their boss cannot use this against them as something hanging over their head,” said Handwerk.
The decision came on a 6-3 vote, with two votes coming from conservative judges, including President Trump appointee Neil Gorsuch. Handwerk says this is another step in the right direction for equality for those in the LGBTQ community.
“In Louisiana, it was great to have marriage equality but what good does it do to get married on Saturday if you are going to get fired on Monday, so this is certainly a good day,” said Handwerk.