This bill amends the Civil Rights Act of 1990 to define anti-Semitism for use by the state human affairs commission in investigating and resolving discrimination complaints, as well as by the commission against prejudice and bias in defining hate crimes. The new definition of anti-Semitism includes the definition adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) on May 26, 2016, and contemporary examples identified by the IHRA. It specifies that criticism of Israel, when similar to that directed at other countries, does not constitute anti-Semitism.

The bill also states that in reviewing instances of discrimination, the state and its agencies must consider the definition of anti-Semitism to determine if the discrimination was motivated by anti-Semitic intent. Additionally, it defines a discriminatory act as any harassing conduct that is severe, pervasive, or persistent enough to interfere with a victim's ability to participate in or benefit from services, activities, opportunities, or privileges.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that nothing in this section may be construed to diminish or infringe upon rights protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I of the Rhode Island State Constitution, nor conflict with federal or state discrimination laws. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5455: 42-112-1