Author: Jeffrey K.Brown, Leeds Morelli & Brown
Jeffrey K Brown, Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC
A recent decision of the Supreme Court will drastically change the standard of employment laws with respect to religious groups. For the first time, the Supreme Court has recognized a “ministerial exception” to employment discrimination laws. The High Court has ruled churches and other religious groups must be free to choose and dismiss their leaders without government interference. Chief Justice John Roberts, Jr., recognized the importance of the federal employment laws, however, he stated, so too is the “interest of religious groups in choosing who will preach their beliefs, teach their faith and carry out their mission.” While the scope of what constitutes a minister is not well defined, many speculate this will affect ministers, priests, rabbis, other religious leaders, as well as those teachers in religious schools with formal religious training who instruct students about religious matters. Full article. Decision: Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School v. E.E.O.C.
In the workplace, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. The law forbids discrimination when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition of employment. Please visit the EEOC’s website for further information: eeoc.gov.
The attorneys at Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC believe that discrimination at work, or anywhere else, has no place in a free and democratic society. Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC has worked with many clients represented on Long Island, throughout the New York City area involving employment discrimination. For a free consultation, please Contact Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC at 1-888-585-4658.