The bill amends the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to strengthen protections against discrimination based on a range of characteristics, including religion, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, height, weight, familial status, and marital status. A significant addition is the term "ethnicity," which is defined to include antisemitism as a form of discrimination. The bill clarifies that discrimination based on ethnicity does not exclude findings of discrimination on other bases, such as religion or race. It aims to ensure equal opportunities in employment, housing, and public accommodations while maintaining the confidentiality of certain records.
Additionally, the bill imposes specific prohibitions against discriminatory practices by employers, labor organizations, and employment agencies, mandating non-discrimination in hiring and recruitment. It requires state contracts to include non-discrimination clauses and allows individuals to implement plans to rectify past discriminatory practices. The amendments extend to private clubs, educational institutions, and real estate transactions, ensuring equal access and opportunities for all individuals. The bill also establishes that any conditions limiting property use based on the protected categories are void and mandates compliance with these provisions within 90 days of enactment.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 37.2102