The bill H.201, introduced by Representatives Rachelson, Christie, and Headrick, aims to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's criminal history in employment and housing transactions, including the rental and sale of real estate. The bill amends existing laws to include "criminal history" as a protected category alongside race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, place of birth, age, and crime victim status. Specific sections of the law are updated to reflect this inclusion, such as in 21 V.S.A. § 495, which outlines unlawful employment practices, and 9 V.S.A. § 4503, which addresses unfair housing practices.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while discrimination based on criminal history is generally prohibited, it does not prevent employers from discharging or refusing to hire individuals for positions that are subject to federal or state laws mandating disqualification due to certain criminal offenses. The bill also defines "criminal history" as encompassing all information related to an individual's contact with the criminal justice system. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 21-495, 21-495d, 9-4501, 9-4502, 9-4503