Charlotte NC OKs Non-Discrimination Law

" CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Feb. 22, 2016) –The Charlotte City Council approved amendments to the city's Non-Discrimination Ordinances Monday which add marital and familial status, sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity to the list of protected characteristics in the existing Non-Discrimination Ordinances.

"I am pleased that Charlotte is now among the more than 250 cities and counties to offer similar protections," said Mayor Jennifer Roberts. "Tonight's vote sends the signal that Charlotte is a welcoming city that strives to treat everyone equally and with dignity and respect." 
The 7-4 vote came after hearing comments from more than 100 speakers. The approved amendments will affect the following areas:

• Public accommodations:  Businesses and other public accommodations that serve the public are prohibited from discriminating based on any protected characteristic.
• Passenger vehicle for hire: Taxi cab and limousine companies and drivers may not refuse to transport any person on the basis of any protected characteristic. 
• Commercial non-discrimination: Businesses that contract with the city may not discriminate against their vendors, suppliers, subcontractors or commercial customers on the basis of any protected characteristic.

The changes to the ordinance will go into effect April 1.​ "

City of Charlotte, North Carolina, press release, February 22, 2016.