Community leaders across Indiana are updating their ordinances to make sure people can’t be discriminated against based on sexual orientation. The changes are in response to the state's new Religious Freedom law known as RFRA.
Some Hoosiers feared the original version of the law that aims to protect religious liberties would nullify local nondiscrimination ordinances. The legislature amended RFRA last week to say it cannot be used to discriminate against someone based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
But some cities are still strengthening their own laws.
Terre Haute Human Relations Commission executive director Jeff Lorick is tasked with creating a proposal to update the city’s 16 year-old ordinance.
“Terre Haute is in a unique position," Lorick said. "As our ordinance stands, the Human Relations Commission office does not have enforcement power, or investigative power or subpoena power.”
That means the city can request people accused of discrimination to rectify the problem but it can’t force them to do so. Lorick says giving his commission that power will save the city money on potential lawsuits and make people in the community feel more valued.
Martinsville is considering passing a human rights ordiance that includes sexual orientation and the Muncie city council Monday added sexual identity to its existing civil rights ordinance.
April 7, 2015
Local Communities Updating Ordinances In Response To RFRA
Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.
Related News
Local News / July 13, 2024
Jim Morris, civic and Pacers leader, dies at 81. "Indiana lost a favorite son”
Jim Morris, a pivotal figure in central Indiana’s business and civic communities for over sixty years, passed away on Friday night at the age of 81.
Read MoreLocal News / July 10, 2024
Indianapolis unveils affordable housing unit for youth experiencing homelessness
Indianapolis officials and community leaders held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday for a new 48-unit apartment building offering affordable housing to city residents.
Read MoreLocal News / July 7, 2024
Crews search Lake Michigan for 2 Chicago-area men who went missing while boating in Indiana waters
Crews are searching Lake Michigan for two suburban Chicago men who went missing while a large group of people were boating along northwestern Indiana’s coastline.
Read More