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 formal method for the Ohio Civil Rights Commission to resolve allegations of unlawful discriminatory practices, thereby improving the commission's capacity to handle complaints. It also reaffirms existing religious exemptions under Ohio's Civil Rights Law, ensuring that religious organizations can uphold their beliefs while complying with anti-discrimination laws.

Moreover, the bill revises the procedures for addressing complaints of unlawful discriminatory practices, designating the attorney general to represent the commission during hearings and establishing a one-year timeline for issuing complaints following a charge. It allows for amendments to complaints and clarifies the rights of respondents to participate in hearings. The bill introduces civil penalties for violations, which vary based on prior offenses, and empowers the commission to mandate remediation and damages in certain cases. It also includes provisions for dismissing complaints lacking probable cause and allows for modifications of findings or orders by the commission before the appeal period ends. Importantly, it repeals existing sections of the Revised Code related to these matters while affirming the continuation of existing religious exemptions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4112.01, 4112.05