Business Owners Should Update Their Policies to Reflect Changes in the Law

An updated employee handbook protects employers from unwanted litigation, employee distrust, and inconsistent implementation of corporate policies. As new state and federal laws are enacted, it is important for business to owners update their business policies to reflect the change.

For example, a new federal law prohibiting discrimination affects some Michigan business owners. On June 15, the United States Supreme Court ruled that employers who terminate an employee based on sexuality may violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This Supreme Court decision means many LGBTQ workers nationwide are protected under the law.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces federal laws prohibiting discrimination. These laws protect employees and job applicants against employment discrimination when it involves unfair treatment because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Because the Supreme Court ruling applies to Michigan businesses with 15 or more employees, employers should take note of the implications of the new opinion and update their policies accordingly.

The business attorneys at O’Reilly Rancilio are available to help business owners draft and update business policies and handbooks. For more information, please visit our website or call 586-726-1000.