HB87 Summary

• Prohibits discrimination in public accommodations based on race, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin; exempts private clubs, small rooming houses, and religious organizations when compliance conflicts with religious tenets.

• Defines "race" to include ancestry, color, ethnic identification, and traits historically associated with race including skin complexion, hair texture, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists.

• Makes it unlawful for local school boards to discriminate against individuals based on race, sex, disability, or national origin.

• Prohibits employers, employment agencies, and labor organizations from discriminating in hiring, discharge, compensation, or employment terms based on race, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin; protects employees from retaliation for enforcing protections under the act.

• Allows individuals to bring civil action against employers for violations, with potential remedies including back pay, liquidated damages for willful violations, waiver of court fees, and attorney fees if plaintiff prevails.