Debate Over Slacks

* The state Legislature passed a bill (signed by the governor, Sept. 12) that makes it illegal for most employers to prohibit female employees from wearing slacks to work.

Under this law, employers will fear enforcing any type of dress code whatsoever on female employees. This law should be thrown out by the courts as unconstitutional. It is a sexist law in that it limits enforcement of a dress code for female employees only.

One might expect women to wear slacks or pants in a factory or when working out in the fields; however, in the professional world, both in the U.S. and abroad, it is expected in many settings that the appropriate attire is a coat and tie for male employees and a conservative dress or skirt for female employees. The success or failure of many companies may largely depend on the image employees project in their work apparel.

BILLY HANKINS

Sun Valley

* It is comforting to know that while our California Legislature is trying to solve the problems associated with crime, welfare, illegal immigration and job erosion, it still has time to debate the merits of whether women should or should not be allowed to wear slacks in the workplace (Sept. 1).

PAUL W. BERNSTEIN

Beverly Hills