Ron Wilkins

rwilkins@jconline.com

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Discriminating against a person for sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and veteran status likely will be illegal in West Lafayette by Dec. 5.

The West Lafayette City Council members plan to take its first of two votes at its Monday meeting on an ordinance that would outlaw such behaviors.

“What you have before you is an ordinance that would move them from resolution status up to ordinance status," said Eric Burns, West Lafayette city attorney.

The city already has a resolution that bars discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or veteran status, Burns said, noting the council has approved resolutions in 1993 and 2003. The ordinance, if approved, would add teeth to those who choose to discriminate, Burns said.

"The difference between the two is that ordinance has the force of local law. Resolution is advisory," Burns said.

“This would make it enforceable; equal to all other protective classifications — the so called traditional, customary (classifications) that have been around in the United States for four or five decades.”

West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis is listed as the sponsor of the ordinance.

The ordinance must be approved by the council after two readings of the proposed law.

Burns recommended that the council hold those votes at its November and December meetings.

If approved, those who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint with the city's Human Relations Commission, Burns said.

The commission will attempt to help mediate a resolution, as well as assign a person to investigate the allegation. If resolution cannot be reached, the commission holds a hearing and makes a determination whether the complaint was legitimate, Burns said.

If either party is not satisfied with the commission's ruling, they may file a civil suit at the courthouse, Burns said.

J&C breaking news reporter Ron Wilkins can be reached at 765-420-5231; follow on Twitter @RonWilkins2

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