An ordinance amending Title 11, Chapter 11.20 of the Metropolitan Code, Fair Employment and Housing Practices, to provide that religious corporations, associations, and societies are not prohibited from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation, and to add certain definitions.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVENRMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the codification of Title 11 of the Code of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Fair Employment and Housing, be and the same is hereby amended as follows:

A. By amending Section 11.20.010 Purpose of Chapter by adding the following provisions:

“No part of this chapter is intended to interfere with the free exercise of religion guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.”

B. By amending Section 11.20.020 Definitions by adding the following new definitions:

“Disability” means, with respect to a person: (a) A physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one (1) or more of such person’s major life activities; (b) A record of having such an impairment; or (c) Being regarded as having an impairment. “Disability” does not include the current illegal use of a controlled substance or the current abuse of alcohol.”

“Sexual orientation” means homosexuality, bisexuality, or heterosexuality, whether the orientation is real or perceived.”

C. By amending Section 11.20.080 Certain Practices not Considered Discriminatory by adding the phrase “or sexual orientation” after the word “religion”, wherein it appears in subsection B. and subsection C.

Section 3. That this Ordinance shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Chris Ferrell, Eileen Beehan