Also see: Sexual Harassment - Same Gender
     Monthly Law Journal Article: Legal Rights of Transsexual Public Safety Employees, 2007 (6) AELE Mo. L. J. 201.
     "Outing" a gay or lesbian coworker can violate an employer's sexual harassment policy and be grounds for disciplinary action. Bell v. Adelberg Assocs. Med. Group, #C053673, 2008 Cal. App. Unpub. Lexis 1930 (3rd Dist).
     Preop-transsexual public employees with male genitalia must use the men's toilet facilities; "this court cannot conclude it requires employers to allow biological males to use women's restrooms." Etsitty v. Utah Transit Auth., #05-4193, 502 F.3d 1215 (10th Cir. 2007).
     Transsexual applicant, who was rejected for position as terrorism research analyst with the Library of Congress, stated a Title VII claim of sex discrimination based on gender stereotyping about her appearance and behavior. Schroer v. Billington, #05-1090, 2007 WL 4225667, 2007 U.S. Dist. Lexis 89885, 102 FEP Cases (BNA) 296 (D.D.C.); prior opin. at 424 F.Supp.2d 203 (2006).
     New York State Div. of Human Rights awards $850,000 in compensatory damages for the harassment of a lesbian corrections officer. The agency found that she was subjected to a "daily, relentless regimen of humiliating insults" placing her in an "extremely serious and dangerous situation" by disclosing her sexual orientation to inmates. Humig v. New York State Dept. of Corr. Servs., #7905228 (N.Y. Div. of Hum. Rts.10/11/07).
     Federal court refuses to dismiss a sex discrimination action brought by a terminated transgender employee stated claim of based on gender stereotyping, where she alleged that management punished her for not conforming to gender stereotypes. Creed v. Family Express Corp., 2007 WL 2265630, 2007 U.S. Dist. Lexis 57680, 101 FEP Cases (BNA) 609 (N.D. Ind.).
     Massachusetts appellate court affirms a $623,600 damages award to a homosexual corrections officer who claimed that he was discriminated against and forced out of his job because of his sexual orientation. The court also should be awarded interest on his backpay and emotional distress damages. Salvi v. Suffolk Co. Sheriff's Dept., #05-P-1047, 67 Mass. App. Ct. 596,855 N.E.2d 777, 2006 Mass. App. Lexis 1073 (2006). {N/R}
     Federal appeals court rejects a suit by a prison chaplain who was disciplined after refusing to allow a gay inmate to lead the choir during a Protestant service. Akridge v. Wilkinson, #05-3015, 2006 U.S. App. Lexis 10671 (6th Cir. 2006), affirming 351 F.Supp.2d 750. [2006 FP Jul]
     Federal court refuses to dismiss a suit filed by a job applicant for a terrorism analyst position who was rejected because he was planning gender reassignment surgery. Schroer v. Billington, #05-1090, 2006 U.S. Dist. Lexis 14278 (D.D.C. 2006). [2006 FP Jun]
     Transsexual police officer, who won a jury verdict on her sex discrimination claim, recovers a supplemental award of attorneys' fees of $90,344 plus expenses of $2,540 for successfully defending the appeal before Sixth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court. A lodestar multiplier of 1.75 that was applied to the trial-related legal fees should not apply to the appellate work. Barnes v. City of Cincinnati, #1:00-cv-780, 2006 U.S. Dist. Lexis 8826, 97 FEP Cases (BNA) 1168 (S.D. Ohio 2006). {N/R}
     Cincinnati, Ohio, city council adds "sexual orientation or transgendered status" to the ordinance that prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, marital status, or ethnic, national, or Appalachian regional origin. In 2004, voters repealed an amendment to the city charter that prohibited protected status to persons "because of homosexual, lesbian, or bisexual orientation." 2006 Amendment to Munic. Code §914-1-D1, 44 (2149) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 312. {N/R}
     Virginia Attorney General declares that the Governor's Executive Order banning sexual orientation discrimination violates the state's constitution as an executive encroachment on legislative power. Virginia Attorney General Opinion #05-094 (2006). {N/R}
     The Supreme Court declined to review the $320,000 damage award given to a transsexual police officer in Cincinnati. She also recovered $550,000 in legal fees. Cincinnati v. Barnes, #05-292, cert. denied, 2005 U.S. Lexis 8238, 74 U.S.L.W. 3288 (U.S. 11/7/2005). {N/R}
     In a Nov. 2005 election in Maine, over 55% of voters rejected a referendum to overturn a new state law prohibiting discrimination because of sexual orientation in public and private sector employment, housing, education, public accommodation, and credit. {N/R}
     California Supreme Court, in a 6-0 decision, holds that organizations that extend discounts, special services or other privileges to California married couples must extend the same rights and benefits to same-gender couples registered under the state's domestic partner law. Koebke v. Bernardo Heights C.C., #S124179, 36 Cal.4th 824, 31 Cal.Rptr.3d 565, 2005 Cal. Lexis 8359 (Cal. 2005). {N/R}
     Transgendered Border Patrol employee fails to prove that poor evaluations and suspensions were due to gender bias. Sturchio v. Ridge, #03-cv-0025, 2004 U.S. Dist. Lexis 27345 (E.D. Wash. 2004). [2005 FP Oct]
     Federal court in Utah rejects a suit by a pre-op transsexual public employee who was terminated because of a lack of available unisex toilets. Etsitty v. Utah Transit Auth., #2:04CV616, 2005 WL 1505610, 2005 U.S. Dist. Lexis 12634 (D. Utah 2005). [2005 FP Sep]
     Federal appeals court upholds discrimination verdict given an officer who had a sex change. He failed his probation period as a new sergeant because of gender stereotyping by his superiors. Barnes v. City of Cincinnati, #03-4110, 401 F.3d 729, 2005 U.S. App. Lexis 4607, 2005 FED App. 0142P (6th Cir. 2005). [2005 FP Jun]
     Illinois becomes the 15th state to extend civil rights protection for gay and lesbian citizens. Senate Bill 3186, amending the Illinois Human Rights Act, 775 ILCS (Jan. 21, 2005). Chicago has long included sexual orientation as a protected status. The statute only prohibits discrimination, and does not mandate rights for domestic partners. Ten states provide domestic partner benefits for their state employees. {N/R}
     Sixth Circuit resurrects the discrimination and retaliation claims of a pre-op transsexual fire lieutenant, who suffered insults and disciplinary action, and who was to take at least three psychological fitness exams with the hope that he would resign. Smith v. City of Salem, #03-3399, 2004 U.S. App. Lexis 10611, 2004 FED App. 0160P (6th Cir. 2004). [2004 FP Aug]
     Lawyers for a transsexual police officer that won a suit for sex discrimination and retaliation are awarded $553,726 in fees and costs by a federal judge who rejected the city's arguments that a 1.75 multiplier, to recognize the "novelty and difficulty" of the case, was excessive. Last year the plaintiff was awarded $320,511 in damages. An appeals bond in the amount of $873,726 will be required, and the court declined to stay its injunction. Barnes v. Cincinnati, #C-1-00-780, 42 (2050) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 257 (S.D. Ohio 2004). {N/R}
     Federal court awards $193,551 in attorney's fees in a civil rights action brought by transvestites who were refused the use of gender-denominated toilets of their choice. McGrath v. Toys "R" Us, #CV-01-3071, 2002 U.S. Dist. Lexis 22610 (E.D.N.Y. 2002); modif. 356 F.3d 246, 2004 U.S. App. Lexis 1129 (2d Cir. 2004). {N/R}
     Michigan's governor has issued an order banning discrimination against homosexuals in state employment; it is the 10th state to take such action. Additionally, Michigan is the only state to protect overweight workers. Executive Directive No. 2003-24. {N/R}
     Third Circuit affirms a jury award of $1.2 million to an ex-lieutenant for retaliation and due process violations, after complaining of sexual orientation harassment. Bianchi v. City of Philadelphia, #02-2687, 2003 U.S. App. Lexis 22726 (3d Cir. unpub. 2003). [2004 FP Feb]
     California discrimination laws now include transgendered persons. Only three other states (MN, RI and NM) have enacted laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression. At the local level, 59 cities and counties have enacted non-discrimination ordinances that protect transgendered people. A recent study disclosed that a large number of transgendered people have low-income jobs and often lack health insurance. A.B. 196, amending the Calif. Fair Employment and Housing Act. {N/R}
     The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstates a lawsuit by a former Air Force physician who was required to reimburse his medical school expenses after revealing he is homosexual. Hensala v. Dept. of the Air Force, #01-16791, 2003 U.S. App. Lexis 18938 (9th Cir. 2003). {N/R}
     The Governor of Arizona has issued a directive, which prohibits discrimination in employment "solely on the basis of an individual's sexual orientation." The order also provides that disciplinary action, including termination, can be taken against state employees who engage in sexual or other harassment based on sexual orientation. Executive Order 2003-22 (6/21/2003). {N/R}
     The Governor of Kentucky (Paul Patton, Dem.) has issued Executive Order 2003-533 prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity; it covers 36,000 cabinet department employees and applicants (May 29, 2003). Kentucky is supposedly the only state to also include gender identity discrimination by executive order. {N/R}
     Federal court in Ohio gives a police officer $320,511 in damages for discrimination after he changed his gender to female. Barnes v. Cincinnati, #C-1-00-780, 41 (2001) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 294 (S.D. Ohio 2003). [2003 FP Jun]
     Federal appeals court upholds conviction of a Naval petty officer for soliciting homosexual acts with other seamen. Turner v. Dept. of Navy, et al., #02-5067, 2003 U.S. App. Lexis 7082 (D.C. Cir. 2003). {N/R}
     Noting that gender dysphoric persons who have completed sexual reassignment surgery are "an under-represented group" in policing, the London Metropolitan Police have recruited their first transsexual officer. The 39-year-old male officer, who was born a female, will not be allowed to conduct searches because of a fear of lawsuits. Source: Evening Standard (UK) 02/18/2003. {N/R}
     New York has become the 13th state to prohibit anti-gay bias. The Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act took effect in Jan. 2003. A-01971 and S-720, amending Executive Law §§291-6, Civ. Rts. Law §40, and Educ. Law §313 (Eff. 1/17/2003). {N/R}
    Washington appeals court allows a lesbian hospital worker to sue for a biased discharge under §1983 and the Equal Protection Clause. Miguel v. Guess, #20699-8-III, 112 Wn.App. 536, 51 P.3d 89, 2002 Wash. App. Lexis 1706, 89 FEP Cases (BNA) 990 (Wash.App. 2002). [2002 FP Dec]
     California appellate court affirms a $500,000 jury verdict to a fired gay police recruit. Hoey-Custock v. City of Oakland, #A094881, 2002 Cal. App. Unpub. Lexis 7692, 40 (1975) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 894 (Unpub. Cal. App. 2002). [2002 FP Nov]
     Federal court declines to dismiss a suit by a lesbian schoolteacher for a hostile work environment caused by students. Lovell v. Comsewogue Sch. Dist., #01CV7750, 214 F.Supp.2d 319, 89 FEP Cases (BNA) 1189, 2002 U.S. Dist. Lexis 15002 (E.D.N.Y. 2002). {N/R}
     Michigan Supreme Court holds that a lesbian police lieutenant could not use a city charter's anti-discrimination clause to bring a damage suit for sexual orientation discrimination. She could sue for gender-based harassment, however. Mack v. City of Detroit, #118468, 620 N.W.2d 670, 243 Mich. App. 132, 2002 Mich. Lexis 1422 (7/31/02). [2002 Oct. FP]
     Woman schoolteacher loses her suit to prevent a male transvestite teacher from using the women's toilets. Minnesota state law "neither requires nor prohibits restroom designation according to self-image" and her federal claim fails because she did not suffer a significant adverse employment action, i.e., a hostile work environment. Cruzan v. Special School District # 1, #01-3417, 294 F.3d 981, 2002 U.S. App. Lexis 12161 (8th Cir.). {N/R}
      Minnesota's Supreme Court reverses a ruling that an employer must allow a transvestite to use the restrooms of his or her choice. Restricting access to restrooms by biological gender is not sexual orientation discrimination. Goins v. West Group, #CX-00-706, 635 N.W.2d 717, 2001 Minn. Lexis 789 (2001). [2002 FP Mar]
     California judge sets aside a $945,000 awarded to a lesbian police officer who claimed discriminatory discipline and termination. Dawn Goodman v. City of San Jose, Santa Clara Co. Super. Ct. (11-9-2001). [2002 FP Feb]
     In a wrongful termination action, six isolated incidents in which homophobic statements or gestures were made in presence of a gay male employee over two-year period did not create a hostile work environment. Lane v. Collins #00 Civ. 3241, 2001 U.S. Dist. Lexis 17757 (S.D.N.Y.). {N/R}
     Denver ordinance prohibits public employment discrimination against transgendered individuals. Ordinance CB0898-01, 39 (1935) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 1206 (Adopted Nov. 5, 2001). {N/R}
     New Jersey appellate court upholds employment discrimination lawsuit filed by a discharged transsexual. Enriquez v. West Jersey Health Systems, #A-2017-99T5, 777 A.2d 365, 2001 N.J. Super. Lexis 283, 86 FEP Cases (BNA) 197. [2001 FP 169]
     Federal appeals court rejects gay harassment lawsuit; coworkers mistreated him because he was a homosexual, not because of his gender. Rene v. MGM Grand Hotel, 98-16924, 243 F.3d 1206, 2001 U.S. App. Lexis 5201 (9th Cir.). [2001 FP 56-7]
     Lesbian police lieutenant could bring a damage action against the city for violation of a city charter provision that prohibited sexual orientation discrimination. Mack v. Detroit, #214448, 620 N.W.2d 670, 243 Mich.App. 132, 2000 Mich. App. Lexis 233. [2001 FP 25]
     Ordinances that exempt religious institutions from employment discrimination remedies arising from sexual orientation or gender identity are valid and neutral laws of general applicability. Hyman v. City of Louisville, 85 FEP Cases (BNA) 632 (Unpub. W.D. Ky. 2001). {N/R}
     An employer's intentional exclusion of homosexuals from employment does not violate Title VII unless it constitutes discrimination on basis of religion, because homosexuals are not a federally-protected class. Pedreira v. Kentucky Baptist Homes, #3:00CV-210-S, 2001 U.S. Dist. Lexis 10283, 86 FEP Cases (BNA) 417 (W.D.Ky. 2001). {N/R}
     Articles on transgendered persons: “Transforming the Debate: Why We Need to Include Transgender Rights in the Struggles for Sex and Sexual Orientation Equality,” 101 Colum. L. Rev. 392 (2001); “Defining Male and Female: Intersexuality and the Collision between Law and Biology,” 41 Ariz. L. Rev. 266 (1999); “Defending Genders: Sex and Gender Non-Conformity in the Civil Rights Strategies of Sexual Minorities,” 48 Hastings L.J. 1363, 1363-68 (1997); and “Treatment of Gender Dysphoria,” 90 Tex. Med. 68-72 (1994). {N/R}
     A lesbian police officer settles her harassment claim with the NYPD. The court criticized the NYPD's EEO unit for doing little to investigate the claims beyond interviewing the plaintiff and the coworkers she had accused of harassment. Bryant v. City of N.Y. (Unreported, S.D.N.Y. 2000). {N/R}
     Gay male police officer awarded $380,000 for enduring nine years of harassing conduct by his fellow officers. Public employees who are harassed because of their sexual orientation can sue under 42 U.S. Code Sec. 1983 for violation of their equal protection rights. Quinn v. Nassau Co. Police Dept., #97-CV-3310, 1999 U.S. Dist. Lexis 9902, 53 F.Supp.2d 347, 80 FEP Cases (BNA) 286 (E.D.N.Y.). Verdict rptd. at 37 (1820) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 851. [1999 FP 131]
     Supreme Court rejects challenge to Cincinnati's anti gay rights law. Equality Fnd. v. Cincinnati, 1998 U.S. App. Lexis 1765, 75 FEP Cases (BNA) 1763 (6th Cir.); cert. den., 118 S.Ct. 365. Also see 128 F.3d 289 and 54 F.3d 261. [1999 FP 9-10]
     European Court of Human Rights overturns involuntary separations of two members of the British armed forces, because of their sexual orientation. Lustig-Prean v. Beckett; Smith v. Grady, Vol. 7 Human Rights Brief (Amer. Univ.) No. 3 (ECHR 9/27/1999). {N/R}
     Second Circuit upholds the military's “don't ask, don't tell” policy toward gay service members. Military cohesion cited as justification. Able v. U.S., 97-6205, 155 F.3d 628, 1998 U.S. App. Lexis 23359 (2nd Cir.). {N/R}
     Second Circuit upholds military's “Don't ask - don't tell - don't pursue” policy. Decision follows similar results in the 4th, 8th and 9th Circuits. U.S. v. Able, #97-6205, 1998 U.S. App. Lexis 23559 (2nd Cir.). {N/R}
     Federal court rejects harassment suit by a police officer who alleged he was perceived as gay. The civil rights acts do not protect heterosexuals or homosexuals as a class. Segreto v. Kirschner, 977 F.Supp. 553, 1997 U.S.Dist. Lexis 15647 (D.Conn.). [1998 FP 167-8]
     President signs Order creating a uniform policy prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination in federal employment. Executive Order 11478 Amendment (May 28, 1998). [1998 FP 103]
     Ontario appellate court concludes that a gay or lesbian partner of a deceased employee is entitled to "spousal" death benefits under Canada's “equal protection and equal benefits” clause of the Canadian constitution. Rosenberg v. Canadian Hum. Rts. Cmsn., 1997 Ont. C.A. Lexis 782 (Released 1998). [1998 FP 103-4]
     Connecticut court holds that transsexualism is a mental disability for purposes of employment discrimination. Conway v. City of Hartford, 1997 Conn. Super. Lexis 282. [1998 FP 40]
     Supreme Court has stated that a transsexual is a person who has a “rare psychiatric disorder,” citing APA and AMA authorities, Farmer v. Brennan, 511 U.S. 825, 114 S.Ct. 1970 (1994). Note: the ADA and Rehabilitation Acts specifically provide that gender identity disorders are not a federally- recognized disability, unless they are the result of a physical impairment. 42 U.S. Code 12211(B)(1) and 29 U.S. Code 706(8)(F)(I)(i)]. [1998 FP 40]
     Pennsylvania appellate court rejects claims of a transsexual counselor who was fired and barred from working at the county prison. Holt v. NW. PA. T.P.C., 694 A.2d 1134, 1997 Pa.Commw. Lexis 207. [1998 FP 23-4]
     Navy acted improperly in discharging a sailor who wrote “gay” on his AOL member profile, accessible by 12 million AOL users. The Navy violated its “Don't ask-don't tell” policy. McVeigh v. Cohen, #98-116, 7983 F.Supp. 215, 1998 U.S. Dist. Lexis 790, 5 FEP Cases (BNA) 1656. {N/R}
     Federal appeals court orders the US to pay $421,488 in legal fees for a Navy petty officer who won court-ordered reinstatement after admitting he was gay. Meinhold v. U.S. DoD, 123 F.3d 1275 (9th Cir.). {N/R}
     11th Circuit votes 6-to-3 to deny employment as an Asst. Attorney General to a militant lesbian. Shahar v. Bowers, 1997 U.S.App. Lexis 13069, 114 F.3d 1097 (11th Cir. en banc). [1997 FP 121]
     Article: "Homosexuals in law enforcement: a contemporary study," 30 (4) J. Calif. Law Enf.(CPOA) 77-81 (1997).
     Article: "Sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace: a legal reference guide," 2 (1) Natl. J. of Sexual Orient. L 38-84 (an on- line electronic journal; covers emplmt. discrim. cases/laws and harassment). Internet URL (11/96): sunsite.unc.edu/gaylaw/
     Justice Dept. adds "sexual orientation" to the list of prohibited discrimination for applicants/employees. Atty.Gen. Order 2037-96 revising 28 C.F.R. 42.1, 61 (129) Fed.Reg. 34729. Internet www.gpo.ucop.edu/search/default.html [1996 FP 170]
     Supreme Court strikes down Colorado's constitutional amendment that sought to overturn municipal gay rights ordinances. Romer v. Evans, 1996 U.S. Lexis 3245, 64 LW 4353, 116 S.Ct. 1620. [1996 FP 122]
     Divided federal appeals court holds that homosexual relationships can enjoy the protections of the First Amendment. Sharar v. Bowers, 70 F.3d 1218 (11th Cir. 1995). [1996 FP 102-3]
     Gay employee who was “outed” after he listed his same-gender partner as his insurance beneficiary on an employment form can sue his employer for invasion of privacy. Greenwood v. Taft, 663 N.E.2d 1030, 1995 Ohio App. Lexis 3932, 10 IER Cases (BNA) 1744. [1996 FP 60-1]
     President Clinton adds sexual orientation to the list of statuses that may not be used to deny a security clearance. “Access to Classified Information”, U.S. Executive Order 12968, 60 Fed.Reg. 40245, 1995 U.S.C.C.& A.N. B80-91 (8-2-95). [1995 FP 169]
     New York City ordinance which prohibits discrimination because of gender, protected a female who, after sexual reassignment surgery, became a male. Chief executive of the firm would “degrade and humiliate” the plaintiff and accused him of immoral conduct. Trial court refused to dismiss the plaintiff's complaint. Maffei v. Kolaeton Indus., 626 N.Y.S.2d 391, 68 FEP Cases (BNA) 1039 (Misc. 1995). {N/R}
     Federal statute, 10 U.S. Code 654, and "Don't ask, don't tell" policy which requires separation of armed service members who announce their homosexuality, violates the 1st and 5th amendments. U.S. v. Able, 870 F.Supp. 468 (E.D.N.Y. 1994); remanded, 44 F.3d 128 (2nd Cir. 1995); and 67 FEP Cases (BNA) 1098 (E.D.N.Y. 1995). {N/R}
     Texas city pays $73,000 to a police applicant who was rejected because she is a lesbian. England v. City of Dallas, Travis Co. Dist.Ct. #484697, 3 (12) Emp. Disc. Rep. (BNA) 353 (1994). [1995 FP 75]
     Federal court in DC concludes that under existing case law, a bisexual supervisor cannot violate Title VII by sexually harassing a subordinate. Because Title VII prohibits harassment because of the victim's gender, the harassment must be caused by a heterosexual or homosexual person, as a bisexual person would be attracted by both genders. Ryczek v. Guest Services, 887 F.Supp. 754 (D.D.C. 1995). {N/R} However, if the defendant is bisexual and selects employees of one gender for harassment, the protections of Title VII will be operative; Raney v. Dist. of Col., 892 F.Supp. 283 (D.D.C. 1995). {N/R}
     Plaintiff did not state a claim under Title VII for his transsexualism, but did state a cause of action under Title VII when he alleged that his employer would not have terminated a woman who lives as a man, but terminated him because he is a man living as a woman. James v. Ranch Mart, 66 FEP Cases (BNA) 1338 (1994), 881 F.Supp. 478 (D.Kan. 1995). {N/R}
     San Francisco ordinance adds “transgender” to persons with protected housing and employment status. Up to 4,000 “transvestites, drag queens, cross-dressers, female impersonators” and hermaphrodites will be covered. San Francisco, CA Ordin. #97-94-37.2 (12/12/94), 33 (1597) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 55. {N/R}
     Gender reassignment surgery is not a “disability” under the Rehab. Act. Campbell v. Espy, EEOC #05931174, Appeal #01931730, Agency #910702, 1994 EEOPUB Lexis 695, 18 (6) MPDLR (ABA) 660 (EEOC 1994), relying on Ulane v. Eastern Airlines, 742 F.2d 1081 (7th Cir. 1984); Sommers v. Budget Marketing, 667 F.2d 748 (8th Cir. 1982); and
     McCann v. Dept. of Commerce, Appeal #01933543 (EEOC 1994). {N/R}
     California Fair Empl. & Hsng. Act [Gov. Code Sec. 12940(i) & 12940(2)] preempts a city ordinance forbidding sexual orientation employment discrimination. Although state law does not address such discrimination, employment discrimination is of statewide concern. Delaney v. Superior Fast Freight, 14 Cal.App.4th 590 (2d Dist. 1993), 1993 Cal.App. Lexis 297, 18 Cal.Rptr.2d 33, 67 FEP Cases (BNA) 677; rev. den., 1993 Cal. Lexis 3063. Also see article, “Reorienting the workplace: examining California’s new labor code section 1102.1 and other legal protections against employment discrimination based on sexual orientation,” 66 S. Cal. L. Rev. 2297 (1993). {N/R}
     Minnesota appellate court strikes down an ordinance that provided benefits to same-gender domestic partners and distant relatives of city employees; issue was one of statewide concern. Lilly v. City of Minneapolis, 527 N.W.2d 107, 67 FEP Cases (BNA) 385, 1995 Minn.App. Lexis 120. [1995 FP 74]
     Georgia city has authority to enact ordinance forbidding sexual orientation discrimination in it city employment, as part of a city's general powers to administer municipal government. Atlanta (City of) v. McKinney, 67 FEP Cases (BNA) 646 (Ga. 1995). {N/R}
     Colorado supreme court affirms injunction against voter initiative that would have overturned local laws prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination. Evans v. Romer, 882 P.2d 1335, 1994 Colo. Lexis 779; 1994 WL 554621. [1995 FP 40]
     Federal appeals court upholds a city charter amendment that prohibits ordinances banning discrimination against persons because of their sexual orientation. Equality Foundation v. City of Cincinnati, 54 F.3d 261, 67 FEP Cases (BNA) 1290 (6th Cir. 1995). [1995 FP 123] Note: U.S. Supreme Court has vacated the decision and remanded it for reconsideration in light of Romer v. Colorado (above).
     103rd Congress failed to act on sexual orientation job protection legislation, supported by President Clinton and the Justice Dept. S. 2238;H.R. 4636 (103rd Cong. 2d Sess.) [1995 FP 8]
     Federal court upholds DC human rights suit by an ex-employee who claimed she was terminated for reasons of personal appearance, following her sex change. Underwood v. Archer M.S.I., 65 FEP Cases (BNA) 791 (D.D.C. 1994). [1994 FP 170-1]
     Federal appeals court affirms lower court ruling barring the Navy from terminating a gay petty officer. Meinhold v. Dept. of Defense, 1994 U.S.App. Lexis 23705, 65 FEP Cases (BNA) 1132 (9th Cir. 1994); Navy decides against further appeal. [1994 FP 171]
     Federal court rejects pre-op transsexual's discrimination claim that his employer unlawfully required him to dress as male and use the men's lavatories. Dobre v. Amtrak, 850 F.Supp. 284, 1993 U.S.Dist. Lexis 16825, 63 FEP Cases (BNA) 923 (E.D.Pa. 1993). [1994 FP 120]
     Federal court upholds separation of a 2d lieutenant in the Army reserve for marrying a person of the same biological sex and engaging in homosexual acts with that person, contrary to AR 635-100 {5-51}. Walmer v. U.S.D.o.D., 835 F.Supp. 1307 (D.Kan. 1993). {N/R}
     Federal court concludes that the Army's regulation requiring separation of service members who acknowledge their homosexual orientation, without admitting sexual behavior, is not rationally related to the Army's legitimate interest in maintaining military readiness or combat effectiveness and violates the Equal Protection Clause. Cammermeyer v. Aspin, 850 F.Supp. 910, 1994 U.S. Dist. Lexis 7289, 65 FEP Cases (BNA) 1229 (W.D. Wash. 1994). {N/R}
     Colo. appellate court finds that Denver did not engage in sexual orientation discrimination by disallowing an employee's family leave request to care for her domestic partner. Ross v. Denver Dept. of Health and Hosp., 883 P.2d 516, 1994 Colo.App. Lexis 97 (Colo.App. 1994). [1994 FP 120]
     FBI adopts new “Policy regarding sexual orientation" for applicant background investigations and security clearances. Sexual conduct may be considered if it affects "character, judgment, stability...” or makes one vulnerable to compromise. "Heterosexual and homosexual conduct will be equally considered in this regard." FBIHQ/SAC Airtel (3/2/94). {N/R}
     FBI pays $205,000 to terminated gay Special Agent who sued for sexual orientation discrimination; agrees to settle class action suit filed by gay former agent. Buttino v. Fed. Bur. of Inv., #C-90-1639-SBA, 32 (1558) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 409 (N.D.Cal. 1994). {Our File #5576} [1994 FP 55-6 and 103]
     Federal District Court enjoins Navy from terminating a service member for admitting his homosexuality. Seeland v. Aspin, 832 F.Supp. 12, 1993 U.S. Dist. Lexis 13618, 63 FEP Cases (BNA) 16 (D.D.C. 1993). [1994 FP 27]
     Federal appeals three-judge panel orders Navy to reinstate a gay Naval Academy midshipman. Steffan v. Aspin, 8 F.3d 57 (D.C. Cir. 1993), reversing 780 F.Supp. 1 (D.D.C. 1991); see note below. [1994 FP 27]
     Note: in 1994 a divided en banc panel reversed, upholding the Navy, in Steffan v. Perry. Both the Seeland and Steffan cases distinguished “orientation” from conduct, which may be punished under Dronenburg v. Zech, 741 F.2d 1388 (D.C. Cir. 1984). {N/R}
     Supreme Court declines review of appellate ruling which allows the CIA to summarily dismiss homosexuals who conceal their status. Doe v. Gates, 981 F.2d 1316 & 991 F.2d 818 (D.C. Cir. 1993), cert. den. sub nom Doe v. Woolsey, 510 U.S. 928, 114 S.Ct. 337, 1993 U.S. Lexis 6551 (1993). [1994 FP 8]
     Minneapolis Cmsn. on Civil Rights rules that same-gender domestic partners cannot be denied health insurance benefits for their lesbian partners. Each of three claimants awarded $8,500 punitive plus triple compensatory damages. Anglin v. City of Minneapolis, Mpls. Cmsn. Civ.Rts. #88180-EM-12, 30 (1493) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 1620 (11/17/92). [1993 FP 26]
     Study by the Univ. of Maryland School of Public Affairs finds that gay men earn between 11 and 27 percent less than non-gay men, and lesbians earn 5 to 14 percent less than non-gay women. “Economic Evidence of Sexual Orientation Discrimination,” Industrial and Labor Relations Review (Cornell University) 1994.
     Federal appeals court affirms right of CIA to summarily dismiss homosexuals who conceal their status. Doe v. Gates, 981 F.2d 1316 (DC Cir. 1993). [1993 FP 44-5]
     LAPD pays $770,000 in settlement of suit by homosexual officers; LA agreed to adopt comprehensive nondiscriminatory personnel policies. Grobeson v. City of Los Angeles, Super.Ct. #C-700134, 31 (1503) G.E.R.R. (BNA) 252; 1993 FEP Summary (BNA ) 27 (1993). [1993 FP 73-4]
     Federal court in Los Angeles blocks discharge of gay navy noncom. on constitutional grounds; appeal likely. Meinhold v. Dept. of Defense, 808 F.Supp. 1453, 61 FEP Cases 136 (C.D.Cal. 1993). [1993 FP 74-5] See also: Dahl v. Secy. Navy, 830 F.Supp. 1319, 1993 U.S. Dist. Lexis 12102, 62 FEP Cases (BNA ) 1373.
     Federal appeals court refuses to dismiss suit by a lesbian officer, challenging her discharge on Equal Protection grounds. Pruitt v. Cheney, 61 FEP Cases (BNA) 800, 963 F.2d 1160, 1992 U.S. App. Lexis 9812; amended at 963 F.2d 1160, 1992 U.S. App. Lexis 9812, 61 FEP Cases (BNA) 800 (9th Cir. Cal. 1992); Cert. den. 506 U.S. 1020, 113 S.Ct. 655, 1992 U.S. Lexis 7704 (1992). [1993 FP 105-6]
     U.S. appeals court affirms dismissal of gay foreign service officer's suit for discriminatory discharge. He admitted to 7 sexual relationships with Yugoslavian nationals while stationed there and 1 with a foreign officer of a third country. His termination was for conduct which subjected him to recruitment by a hostile intelligence agency. U.S. Info. Agency v. Krc, #91-5339, 302 U.S. App. D.C. 405, 998 F.2d 1040, 1993 U.S. App. Lexis 24275(D.C. Cir. 1993). {N/R}
     Washington state supreme court reverses appellate decision reinstating a transsexual; employee terminated for dress code violations, not gender alteration. Doe v. Boeing, 846 P.2d 531 (Wash. 1993). [1993 FP 120]
     Florida commission rules that a transsexual corrections officer was wrongly terminated. Gender reassignment surgery is a handicap under state law; $149,000 awarded. Smith v. City of Jacksonville, #86-0985, 1993 FEP Summary (BNA) 41 (Fla.C.H.R. 1992). [1993 FP 120-1]
     Texas appellate court strikes down sodomy law and police regulations which barred a lesbian from police employment. Dallas v. England, 846 S.W.2d 957 (Tex.App. 1993). See however, Bowers v. Hardwick, 106 S.Ct. 2841 (1986). [1993 FP 137-8]
     Federal court in Sacramento holds that Navy's exclusion of gays was not based on a governmental interest other that prejudice and is unconstitutional as a matter of law. Dahl v. Secretary of the Navy, 62 FEP Cases (BNA) 1373 (E.D.Cal. 1993). [1993 FP 167-8]
     Federal appeals court rules that transsexuals are not protected under Title VII; and airline did not have to rehire a pilot who surgically altered his sex to female. Ulane v. Eastern Airlines, 742 F.2d 1081, 35 FEP Cases (BNA) 1348 (7th Cir. 1984) {N/R}
     Federal appeals court rejects Title VII “hostile environment” suit brought by employee who claimed coworkers harassed him because he was perceived a homosexual. Dillon v. Frank, 60 LW 2471 (6th Cir. 1992); not certified for publication. See also: Wright v. Methodist Youth Services Inc., 511 F.Supp. 307 (N.D.Ill. 1981). [1992 FP 57]
     Federal civil rights suit by rejected police applicant is dismissed; underlying sexual conduct (sex in a public washroom), not a police detention without prosecution, was a rational basis for denying employment. Delahoussaye v. City of New Iberia, 937 F.2d 144 (5th Cir. 1991). [1992 FP 73-4]
     Homosexuality could be a legitimate basis for terminating CIA employment; employee was entitled to due process safeguards. Doe v. Webster, 769 F.Supp. 1 (D.D.C. 1991). [1992 FP 74] See also: Ashton v. Civiletti, 613 F.2d 923 (D.C. Cir. 1979), and Civil Service Bulletin of Dec. 23, 1973.
     CIA could not deny a security clearance to a homosexual employee of a government contractor because the CIA had not articulated a rational basis for its policy. Citing High Tech Gays v. DISCO, the exclusion violated the employee's First Amendment rights. Dubbs v. CIA, 769 F.Supp. 1113, 1990 U.S. Dist. Lexis 18988, 62 FEP Cases (BNA) 1531 (N.D.Cal. 1990).
     Federal court refuses to dismiss wrongful discharge suit by a gay FBI agent. Buttino v. Federal Bureau of Inves., 801 F.Supp. 298 (N.D.Cal. 1992). [1992 FP 88] Also see settlement, above. [1994 FP 55-6 & 103]
     Federal court dismisses suit filed by former police employee who was required to resign because he masturbated with the husband of a woman co-worker. Dawson v. State Law Enf. Div., 1992 U.S. Dist. Lexis 8862, 7 IER Cases (BNA) 629 (D.S.C. 1992). [1992 FP 118]
     A post-op, formerly male employee wins wrongful termination suit; Washington appeals court rules that gender dysphoria is a "handicap" under state disabilities law. Doe v. Boeing Co., 823 P.2d 1159 (Wash.App. 1992). [1992 FP 137-8] Case reversed on the facts; employee actually was terminated for violating employers dress code. Doe v. Boeing, 846 P.2d 531 (Wash. 1993). [1993 FP 128]
     Homosexuals are not members of a "suspect class'; CIA's failure to advance a rational basis for blanket policy of denying top secret clearances to gays precluded dismissal of plaintiff's equal protection claims. Dubbs v. C.I.A., 769 F.Supp. 1113 (N.D.Cal. 1990). {N/R}
     Gay rights advocates lose challenge to security clearance procedures that automatically subject them to different criteria and expanded clearance mechanisms. High Tech Gays v. Defense Ind. Security Clearance Off., 895 F.2d 563 (9th Cir. 1990); reh. en banc den., 90 D.A.R. 8293.
     Federal appeals court upholds contested discharge of gay navy lieutenant, without proof of any misconduct. Woodward v. United States, 871 F.2d 1068 (Fed. Cir. 1989).
     U.S. Supreme Court affirms right of gay CIA employee to sue for loss of his job in deprivation of his constitutional rights. Webster v. Doe, 108 S.Ct. 2047 (1988).
     Gay police sergeant wins $65,000 verdict against other officers who unjustly arrested and ridiculed him. Foley v. City of Detroit, U.S. Dist. Ct. (E.D. Mich. 1988) -- as reported in the Port Huron Times Herald 2/21/88.
     Air force could discharge reservist for sex change; sexual reassignment surgery created potential health problems that posed an unacceptable risk of unsatisfactory job performance. Leyland v. Orr, 828 F.2d 584 (9th Cir. 1987); doe v. Alexander, 510 F.Supp. 900 (D. Minn. 1981); ben-Shalom v. Sec. of the Army, 826 F.2d 722 (7th Cir. 1987).
     Federal appeals court recognizes homosexuals as a "suspect class"; orders army to reinstate clerk. Watkins v. U.S. Army, 837 F.2d 1428 (9th Cir. 1988).
     Federal appeals court upholds FBI rejection of lesbian who sought appointment as agent. Padula v. Webster, 822 F.2d 97 (D.C. Cir. 1987).
     Gay cop can sue for mental anguish arising from an involuntary transfer purportedly ordered because of his sexual orientation. Newman v. District of Columbia, 518 A.2d 698 (D.C. App. 1986).
     Female sergeant, fired because she is gay, awarded $200,000 in compensatory and $8,250 punitive damages. Sheehan v. Schorle, Super Ct., S.F. Co. Cal. (2/11/86). [1986 (139) FP 2].
     Governmental employee not entitled to enroll his gay lover in state dental plan for spouses and dependants. Hinman v. Dept. of Personnel Admin., 213 Cal.Rptr. 410 (App. 1985).
     Chief could not demand officer answer whether he was a homosexual absent indications of overt behavior. Warren v. City of Asheville, 328 S.E.2d 859 (N.C. App. 1985).
     State employment officers refuse bias complaint of security officer who underwent sexual reassignment surgery. Sommers v. Budget Marketing, Inc., 667 F.2d 748 (8th Cir. 1982). Also see Sommers v. Iowa Civil Rights Cmsn., 337 N.W.2d 470 (Iowa 1983).
     “The Constitutional Right to Privacy and Regulations Affecting the Sexual Activity of Law Enforcement Employees,” by D.S. Schofield, FBI Academy, in the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Oct. 1982, Pp. 24-31.
     California employment board to decide right of sex change applicant who sought security guard position at nuclear plant. Rosen v. Vanguard Security Sys., Cal. Dept. Fair Emplmnt. & Housing (Oct. 1982).
     Federal appeals court upholds employers ban on wearing clothing of the opposite sex; termination affirmed. Kirkpatrick v. Seligman, 636 F.2d 1047 25 FEP Cases (BNA) 74 (5th Cir. 1981).
     Federal court upholds Dallas decision not to hire admitted homosexual police applicant. Childers v. Dallas Police Dept., 513 F.Supp. 134, 26 FEP Cases 954 (N.D. Tex. 1981).
     Man, terminated for rejecting homosexual advances of his supervisor, could bring Title VII action for relief. Wright v. Methodist Youth Serv., 511 F.Supp. 307, 25 FEP Cases 563 (N.D. Ill. 1981).
     FBI clerk who claimed he was forced to resign for homosexuality settles back pay claim for over $25,000. Untenured employee had reasonable expectation of continued employment. Ashton v. Civiletti, 613 F.2d 923; Dist. Ct. #75-0748 (settled April, 1981).
     Army found to violate rights of homosexual drill sergeant; first and fifth amendments apply to termination. ben-Shalom v. Sec. of the Army, 489 F.Supp. 964 (E.D. Wis. 1980); see also Beller v. Middendorf, 632 F.2d 788 (9th Cir. 1980).
     California Attorney General rules state cannot refuse to employ homosexual applicants because of "sexual preferences." Cal. Attorney General Opinion #80-55 (July 3, 1980).
     Gay deputy sheriff applicant wins suit for employment. Kreps v. Co. of Contra Costa, Super Ct., (Aug. 13, 1980). [1980 (69) FP 6]
     California supreme court bans discrimination against gays in quasi-government employment under constitution's equal protection clause. Gay Law Students v. Pacific Tel. & Tel., 595 P.2d 592, 156 Cal.Rptr. 14 (Cal. 1979).
     Police employees, fired after homosexual investigation, recover $103,000 in damages and costs from federal court in Boise. Baker v. Eardley, U.S. Dist. Ct. (D. Idaho 1979).
     Equal Employment Opportunity Act Application. Voyles v. Ralph K. Davies Medical Center, 11 FEP Cases (BNA) 1199 (N.D. Cal. 1975).
     Federal appeals court affirms rule that homosexuals cannot be denied employment because of that status; open and public flaunting distinguished. Society for Individual Rights v. Hampton, 63 F.R.D. 399, 11 FEP Cases (BNA) 1243 (N.D. Calif.), appeal dismissed, 528 F.2d 905 (9th Cir. 1975); Singer v. Civil Serv. Cmsn., 12 FEP Cases (BNA) 208 (9th Cir. 1976).
     Employer could deny health benefits to employee's "lover'; no "equal protection" violations for gay partners. Hinman v. Dept. of Personnel Administration, 167 Cal. App. 3d 516, 213 Cal.Rptr. 410.
     See also: AID/HIV Related; Domestic Partners Rights; Sexual Harassment-Same Gender.