In a unanimous ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with Gerald Groff, a Pennsylvania postal worker who claimed the U.S. Postal Service violated his religious rights by requiring him to deliver mail on Sundays. The decision marks a major change in how employers must approach requests for religious accommodations.

For decades, companies relied on a 1977 precedent, Trans World Airlines v. Hardison, which allowed them to deny such requests if they caused more than a minimal, or “de minimis,” cost. The Court has now clarified that this standard was too lenient toward employers.

In its 9-0 decision, the Court ruled that employers must grant accommodations unless they can prove the request would impose “substantial increased costs” or an undue hardship on their business operations. This redefines the balance between an employee’s right to practice their faith and the employer’s operational needs.

Justice Samuel Alito, writing for the Court, emphasized that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act requires employers to respect workers’ religious practices while maintaining fairness in the workplace. The updated standard aligns more closely with other federal protections, such as those under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Religious liberty advocates welcomed the decision as a significant step forward for people of faith, arguing it strengthens workplace protections and promotes inclusivity. However, some labor unions expressed concerns that it might complicate scheduling and shift distribution for other employees.

Legal experts predict the ruling will reshape workplace policies nationwide, compelling employers to take religious accommodation requests more seriously. For Groff, who had resigned after ongoing disputes about Sunday shifts, the decision represents vindication. He called it a victory for religious freedom, expressing gratitude that his case would help ensure others do not face the same dilemma.