SIOUX FALLS, S.D (KELO AM) - A national conservative group has written to Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether and City Council, to oppose adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the South Dakota city's anti-discrimination ordinance.
The Liberty Council claims that the proposed changes go beyond what South Dakota and Federal law require.
Mayor Huether tells KELO Radio that the city attorney says the changes are needed to stay in accordance with state law and federal law. City Human Resources Director Bill O'Toole says federal funding may be at stake.
O'Toole was briefing council Tuesday afternoon.
He says the Feds are requiring anyone who is a federal contractor or subcontractor to treat all applicants and employees without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity.
O'toole say Tuesday's briefing was really to bring the four news faces on the council up to speed on the proposed changes.
City Attorney Dave Pfeilfle told City Council Tuesday that the ordinance in question only covers hiring and firing by the city itself, and not private companies and organizations. The Liberty Council's Richard Mast told KELO Radio that local churches might be forced to compromise their beliefts if the changes are approved.