CT SB00446

Removes the exemption for domestic service workers from employment discrimination protections under the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, effective January 1, 2016.

Reduces the timeline for the Commission to serve complaints on respondents from twenty days to fifteen days, effective October 1, 2015.

Establishes a new pre-answer conciliation process allowing respondents to participate in settlement discussions before filing a written answer to complaints (except for certain violations).

Changes the complaint review process from a "merit assessment" to a "case assessment review" conducted within sixty days of the respondent's answer to determine whether to retain, dismiss, or investigate the complaint.

Replaces the legal review process with a streamlined approach where dismissed complaints automatically receive a release of jurisdiction, allowing complainants to pursue civil actions without needing to request one.