This bill amends the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to revise the definitions and prohibitions against discrimination, notably removing "gender identity or expression" from the list of protected categories, which includes religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, height, weight, familial status, and marital status. The bill clarifies definitions for terms such as "familial status" and "sexual orientation," while continuing to uphold protections against discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and educational institutions. It also outlines the responsibilities of employers, labor organizations, and educational institutions to ensure non-discriminatory practices and mandates that contracts with state entities include a covenant against discrimination.

In addition, the bill enhances anti-discrimination measures in real estate transactions by prohibiting landlords from denying or terminating tenancies based on a tenant's source of income and making distinctions in rental terms. It restricts landlords from discriminating against tenants who utilize emergency rental assistance and requires consideration of all sources of income when evaluating tenant eligibility. The bill declares any conditions that limit the use or occupancy of real property based on the specified characteristics as void and prohibits misleading representations about neighborhood demographics to induce real estate transactions. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable housing market by ensuring fair access to real estate opportunities without discrimination.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 37.2102