Virginia has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 868) that expands nondiscrimination protections to cover sexual orientation and gender identity. Senate Bill 868 takes effect July 1, 2020.
Background:
Currently, Virginia provides employment protections based on race, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, sex, age, marital status, and pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, including lactation. The law applies to employers with over five employees.
Senate Bill 868:
Senate Bill 868 expands the state's nondiscrimination protections to also prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Under Senate Bill 868, sexual orientation refers to an employee's actual or perceived heterosexuality, bisexuality or homosexuality. Gender identity includes the gender-related identity, appearance, or other gender-related characteristics, with or without regard to an employee's designated sex at birth.
Compliance Recommendations:
Employers in Virginia should review their policies and procedures to ensure compliance with Senate Bill 868 by July 1, 2020. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.