The bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance protections against discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, public services, and education. It introduces a comprehensive list of protected classes, including national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and age. The definition of "disability" is expanded to cover episodic impairments, and the term "discriminate" is clarified to include segregation. Additionally, the bill establishes civil penalties and punitive damages for violations of human rights laws, extends the timeframe for civil actions related to discrimination, and introduces alternative dispute resolution processes. It also strengthens the role of the commissioner in overseeing discrimination cases.

Moreover, the bill sets forth a civil penalty framework for unfair discriminatory practices, allowing courts to determine penalties based on the violation's seriousness and the respondent's financial resources. Compensatory damages can be awarded up to three times the actual damages, with punitive damages capped at $25,000 for political subdivisions. The bill also introduces new remedies for discrimination cases, such as ordering hiring or reinstatement in employment cases and mandating property sales or rentals in housing cases. It repeals certain outdated provisions and streamlines legal language related to the state Board of Human Rights. Overall, the bill aims to create a more robust framework for protecting human rights in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 363A.03, 363A.06, 363A.07, 363A.19, 363A.20, 363A.26, 363A.28, 363A.29, 363A.33
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 363A.03, 363A.06, 363A.07, 363A.19, 363A.20, 363A.26, 363A.28, 363A.29, 363A.33