The City of Minneapolis has recently expanded the list of protected classes beyond those recognized in the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA).[1] Employers within Minneapolis must now consider the following additional factors as protected and cannot use them when making employment decisions:
- Housing Status
- Refers to the stability or security of an individual’s living situation.
- Justice-Impacted Status
- Includes an individual’s criminal history.
- Height and Weight
- Physical attributes that may not be job-related.
While there are limited exceptions based on the specific duties and responsibilities of a job, these new protections may pose challenges—even for employers with fair and inclusive practices.
Now is a prudent time to review and, if needed, update your current employment policies and hiring practices to ensure compliance. If you have questions or would like guidance on these new protections or other employment law matters, the attorneys at Hellmuth & Johnson are here to help.
[1] MHRA classes include race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, public assistance status, familial status, sexual orientation, and age.
