This Law Firm Publication by Jackson Lewis P.C. discusses a new Houston employment discrimination ordinance. The Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) prohibits discrimination against employees on the basis of sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, familial status, marital status, military status, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or pregnancy. In its first year, the new law will apply to private employers with at least 50 employees. The new law also has an anti-retaliation provision. Any aggrieved employee must file a complaint under HERO with the City Attorney's Office of the Inspector General within 180 days of the asserted unlawful act. HERO provides that violation of the ordinance will result in criminal penalties but does not provide for a private right of action. HERO becomes effective on June 27, 2014.