Ames will now get a second chance to prove her discrimination claims in federal court. The broader effect of Thursday's ruling, The New York Times said, is putting "further pressure on employers and others to eliminate affirmative action and other initiatives that seek to provide opportunities to members of historically disadvantaged groups."

The court ruled in favor of a woman who argued she was passed over for a promotion and demoted because she is straight.

The court ruled on Thursday that a heterosexual woman shouldn't have to clear a higher bar than a gay colleague to sue for discrimination.