Military Status as Protected Class–Ohio
As noted in a post on January 10, Ohio has a new law (effective March 23) making military status a protected class under Ohio’s Civil Rights Act. That means it’s like race, gender, national origin, etc.
As discussed more fully in an article in the Columbus Dispatch, this change could ultimately have far-reaching ramifications. There could now be military status harassment, just like sex and race harassment. It could mean that anytime adverse action is taken toward someone with “military status,” he/she could say that you did that because he was in that protected category.
Like most changes in the law, it will take court decisions to flesh it out, and that will take a while. In the meantime, it will be interesting to see if other states follow Ohio’s lead.
About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
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