Local Communities Updating Ordinances In Response To RFRA

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.