SB 120 Summary

• Creates the "Florida Competitive Workforce Act" and amends the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 to add sexual orientation and gender identity or expression as protected classes against discrimination.

• Adds definitions for "gender identity or expression" (gender-related identity, appearance, or behavior regardless of difference from assigned sex at birth) and "sexual orientation" (actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, or bisexuality).

• Extends discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to employment, housing, public accommodations, public lodging, food service establishments, and other covered areas.

• Includes exceptions preserving constitutionally protected free exercise of religion, allowing religious organizations to condition opportunities and give employment preference based on religion.

• Takes effect July 1, 2016.