The bill amends sections 4112.01 and 4112.05 of the Revised Code to enhance protections against discrimination by explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. This change aims to safeguard individuals from discriminatory practices in employment and housing contexts. Additionally, the bill introduces mediation as a method for the Ohio Civil Rights Commission to resolve allegations of unlawful discriminatory practices, thereby improving the commission's effectiveness in addressing complaints. It also reaffirms existing religious exemptions under Ohio's Civil Rights Law, ensuring that religious beliefs are respected in discrimination claims.

Moreover, the bill revises the procedures for handling complaints of unlawful discriminatory practices, designating the attorney general to represent the commission during hearings and establishing a one-year timeline for issuing complaints after a charge is filed. It allows for amendments to complaints and clarifies the rights of respondents to participate in hearings. New penalties for violations are introduced, including civil penalties based on prior violations, and the commission is empowered to require remediation and payment of damages in certain cases. The bill also includes provisions for dismissing complaints lacking probable cause and allows the commission to modify its findings or orders before the appeal period expires, while maintaining existing religious exemptions and repealing outdated sections of the Revised Code.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4112.01, 4112.05