Raised Bill No. 1442 proposes significant amendments to the laws governing discrimination and employment practices as enforced by the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. The bill repeals Section 46a-51 and replaces it with updated definitions, including the introduction of "Employer's agent" and an expanded understanding of discrimination that encompasses various identities and characteristics such as race, gender identity, and protective hairstyles. Additionally, it modifies Section 46a-81c to explicitly prohibit discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation or civil union status, while also updating gender-specific language to be more inclusive. The bill further repeals and substitutes Section 46a-64c to strengthen protections against discriminatory practices in housing, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Moreover, the bill enhances housing discrimination protections by inserting "status as a victim of domestic violence" into the list of protected classes, while removing "status as a veteran" in certain contexts. It outlines specific prohibited discriminatory practices, such as making false representations about housing availability and emphasizes the need for reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The bill also establishes a timeline for investigating discrimination complaints, mandates a final administrative disposition within one year, and allows for early legal intervention requests. By streamlining processes and aligning state law with federal standards, Raised Bill No. 1442 aims to create a more inclusive environment and improve the efficiency of the complaint resolution process.

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