SB 1493 Summary

• Expands protected classes in Arizona employment discrimination law to include gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, replacing the term "sex" with more inclusive language throughout the statute.

• Adds a religious organization exemption allowing faith-based employers and educational institutions substantially controlled by religious organizations to make employment decisions based on gender, gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation if the position relates to religious functions or religious education.

• Clarifies that employers are not required to maintain records regarding employees' or applicants' gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation.

• Makes grammatical and technical corrections to sections 41-1463 and 41-1464 of the Arizona Revised Statutes for clarity and consistency.