General Assembly Raised Bill No. 399 proposes significant amendments to existing laws concerning discrimination in public accommodations, particularly in health clubs and gyms. The bill repeals Section 46a-64 and introduces new language that clarifies that the prohibition of sex discrimination does not apply to the establishment of separate exercise areas based on sex. This change allows health clubs and gyms to create gender-specific spaces without infringing on anti-discrimination laws, while still maintaining protections against discrimination based on race, disability, and gender identity.

Additionally, the bill modifies the complaint handling process before the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, allowing for early legal intervention after a mandatory mediation conference if a complaint remains unresolved. It also updates the appeal process for complainants dissatisfied with final orders, ensuring they can appeal dismissals or findings of no reasonable cause. The legislation includes provisions for reopening closed cases under specific circumstances and allows commission legal counsel to initiate civil actions in the public interest. Overall, the bill aims to balance individual rights with the operational needs of health clubs and gyms while streamlining the complaint resolution process, with changes set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: