A new non-discrimination ordinance for the City of Wichita that was passed in October goes into effect today.

The ordinance prohibits discrimination in the areas of housing, employment and public accommodation based on age, color, disability, familial status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin or ancestry, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other factor protected by law.

It allows people to have their discrimination complaints for housing, employment and public accommodation filed with the city and adjudicated locally.

Opponents of the ordinance argued since there were already similar policies in place at the state and federal level, and that adding it into city statute was unnecessary.

Supporters of the ordinance said that the process to file the claim via state and federal channels was convoluted and costly.

The first step of the NDO is an assigned mediator, whom is paid by the city. That mediator will work with both parties to find a resolution. If one cannot be reached within 60 days, the complaint is referred to an investigator who then reports to the city’s legal department. If probable cause exists, the case could be sent to the municipal court.

Each violation can result in a fine of up to $2,000. The penalties collected by the city will go to pay for the program.

For more information on the NDO, click here. Click here to view the complaint form.

Any questions on the NDO can be directed to NDO@wichita.gov.