West Lafayette one step closer to strengthening discrimination policy

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) – City officials are making sure four protected classes aren’t discriminated against in West Lafayette.

The city has had a resolution in place since 1993, which includes protections for sexual orientation. Gender identity, gender expression, and veteran status were added in 2010.

The council voted unanimously Monday night to change those resolutions to an ordinance. The change would make it part of city code, which makes it able to be enforced.

City Attorney Eric Burns said a violation could lead to legal action.

“The Human Relations Commission has the power to hold hearings to request that people go to mediation if there is a disagreement or if there’s a violation that someone believes has occurred,” said Burns. “And the decision that the Human Relations Commission makes is subject to judicial review by either side.”

A second and final vote will be taken at the December meeting.