The bill amends the Kansas Act Against Discrimination to include sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and veteran status as protected classes, thereby expanding the scope of protections against discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and housing. It updates various sections of the law, including K.S.A. 12-16,107 and K.S.A. 44-1001 through K.S.A. 44-1005, while repealing outdated provisions. The amendments also clarify definitions of key terms and enhance the powers of the Kansas Human Rights Commission, which is responsible for investigating discrimination complaints and promoting educational initiatives to foster goodwill among diverse groups.

Additionally, the bill streamlines the complaint process by allowing employers to file verified complaints against employees who do not cooperate with the act's provisions and granting the commission authority to investigate potential discrimination without a formal complaint. It establishes a six-month timeline for filing complaints and clarifies the definition of "disability" to ensure broader coverage. The bill also introduces new provisions to prevent discrimination in housing and real estate transactions based on the newly included characteristics, outlining penalties for violations and further strengthening the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 12-16, 44-1004, 44-1001, 44-1002, 44-1005, 44-1006, 44-1009, 44-1015, 44-1016, 44-1017, 44-1027, 44-1030