FL H0561

Creates the "Fair Employment Opportunity Act" prohibiting employers with 15+ employees from refusing to consider or hire unemployed persons, or publishing job advertisements that disqualify unemployed applicants.

Prohibits employment agencies from refusing to refer unemployed persons, limiting their access to job information, or publishing advertisements stating unemployed persons are disqualified.

Prohibits employers and employment agencies from directing each other to consider unemployment status when screening applicants, and from retaliating against persons who oppose or report violations.

Allows the Attorney General to pursue civil actions for damages, injunctive relief, and civil penalties not exceeding $10,000 per violation, with the prevailing party entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and costs.

Provides exception for bona fide occupational qualifications where recent employment in a similar job is reasonably necessary for successful job performance; takes effect July 1, 2013.