MS SB2738

Establishes the Mississippi Civil Rights Act, recognizing freedom from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, immigrant status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or familial status as a civil right.

Protects against discrimination in employment, public accommodations, housing, credit transactions, and educational institutions.

Allows individuals injured by discrimination in public accommodations, housing, credit, or education to sue for injunctive relief, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney's fees.

Provides employment discrimination victims the right to sue for back pay (up to 2 years prior to filing), interest, attorney's fees, and for intentional discrimination also compensatory and punitive damages.

Exempts religious organizations from employment discrimination prohibitions when hiring individuals of a particular religion for work connected with religious activities; takes effect July 1, 2016.