This bill makes several amendments to existing laws in Rhode Island.

First, it amends the "Hotels and Public Places" law to prohibit discriminatory practices in public accommodations based on an individual's refusal to receive a vaccine or provide proof of vaccination. It also prohibits the publication of any communication, notice, or advertisement that refuses or denies accommodations based on vaccination status.

Second, it amends the "Fair Employment Practices" law to prohibit employers from refusing to hire, discharging, penalizing, or discriminating against individuals based on their vaccination history, refusal to receive a vaccine, or refusal to provide proof of vaccination and/or immunity.

Additionally, the bill amends the governor's responsibilities during a disaster emergency. It grants the governor additional powers, such as the ability to suspend regulatory statutes or orders, utilize state resources, transfer personnel or functions of state departments, and commandeer private property if necessary. However, it clarifies that the governor does not have the authority to require individuals to be vaccinated or subject them to penalties for refusing to be vaccinated.

Lastly, the bill amends the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to prohibit discrimination in the granting or extension of loans or credit based on an individual's vaccination history. Financial organizations and credit granting institutions would be prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on their vaccination history when granting loans or credit. The Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights would enforce this prohibition.

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