Not only has 2020 brought about a pandemic, but there have been several changes in the law that have made their way into the year as well. From immigration reforms to religious and sexual preference rights, it seems as if the year 2020 has been one of the most hectic in terms of the law. Thanks to these reforms, we’ve been able to make a grand step in progress, especially regarding our civil rights. The year has been busy and occupying for many of us, so we’re here to catch you up on the latest reforms thus far. 

LGBTQ and Alterations in the Workplace 

Many people had been questioning the laws and rights that protect LGBTQ employees from discrimination in the workplace and when being hired or released from their occupations. The court went ahead and clarifies that employees are protected, citing the words of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In simple terms, the act states that employers do not have the right to fire or refuse to hire employees solely based on their race, religion, sex, or national origin. 

Immigration and the Dreamers 

The stance on immigration has changed time and time again. President Trump failed in lawfully repealing the Obama-era order that protected young immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age, which is something he stated he would be meaning to do. His presidency allowed him to revoke the act, although, his administration did a poor job of providing a reason regarding the end of the policy. This policy was responsible for supporting 700,000 in their endeavors to register with the government to receive work permits and to avoid deportation, allowing them to reside in the states legally. 

Supporting Religious-Based Educational Institutions 

People had begun to worry about whether or not church schools would be considered in a state-sponsored tuition aid program that supports students in other private schools, wondering if this would count as discrimination against religion. This indeed became a concern of discrimination. The Montana Supreme Court had kept $500 worth of grants to forbid providing tax money to churches or their affiliated organizations. This discriminatory policy violates the 1st amendment. 

Educators and Religion 

The public had also brought about whether church-run schools are entitled to a religious exemption from federal anti-discrimination laws when it comes to hiring and firing teachers, similar to employees of LGBTQ. The court clarified this. The first amendment and the protection for the free exercises of religion entails that the government has no control when it comes to telling a church who they can and cannot hire, especially if potential employees do not seem fitting. 

Measuring Crime on Reservations 

This clarification of the law was most concerned with the state of Oklahoma. Citizens questioned whether the state has the authority to prosecute serious crimes committed by Native Americans on land that was once part of a historic reservation. The Congress revisited the treaty that created the Creek Nation. Congress stated that U.S. authorities have the jurisdiction to prosecute crimes of a serious nature committed by Native Americans there, not the state. 

Environmental Reforms

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, single-use plastic bags less than 2.25 millimeters thick have been banned from use. Instead, authorities have ordered thicker bags or a recyclable option to be offered. There are only a few exceptions in which thin plastic bags can be used, including restaurants, bakeries, and dry cleaning services. The state of Oregon has also taken up familiar regulations, dictating that retail stores and restaurants are no longer permitted to provide single-use checkout bags. 

The Right to Use and Provide Contraception 

There had been a conflict between pro-life and pro-choice supporters, raising the question of whether the Trump administration exempts employers who cite and abide by religious objections from the part of the Affordable Care Act that provides no-cost contraception to employees. The court did rule these employers exempt. The administration has the legal authority to attend to a broader religious exemption. Although, the ruling is not final. 

Stay In The Know with The Law Offices of Javier Martinez, Jr., P.C.

Javier Martinez, Jr., P.C. understands the importance of keeping up with current regulations in the law and beyond. When you choose our law offices, you can trust that we have the knowledge necessary to help you. Contact us today to learn more about our law offices and our professionals.