The bill introduces amendments to the General Laws to safeguard individuals from discrimination based on their vaccination status. Specifically, it amends Section 11-24-2, concerning public accommodations, to forbid the denial of services or privileges to anyone due to their refusal to receive a vaccine or provide proof of vaccination. It also ensures that no communication should suggest that those who refuse vaccination are unwelcome. In the realm of employment, as outlined in Section 28-5-7, the bill makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals in hiring, compensation, or other terms of employment based on their vaccination history. This includes healthcare professionals and maintains existing protections against discrimination for other personal characteristics.

Additionally, the bill prohibits employers from keeping records of personal characteristics for discriminatory purposes and from asking about an applicant's arrest or conviction history on job applications, except where required by law or necessary for obtaining a bond. It also delineates the governor's powers during disaster emergencies, such as controlling movement and enforcing health measures, but limits these powers to 180 days unless extended by the general assembly. Importantly, the bill includes a provision that prevents the governor from mandating vaccinations or penalizing individuals for vaccine refusal during an emergency declaration. It also amends the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to prohibit discrimination in credit or loans based on vaccination history. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
296: 11-24-2, 28-5-7, 30-15-9, 34-37-4.3