MS SB2549

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

Protects the right to obtain employment, access public accommodations, engage in property and credit transactions, and attend educational institutions without discrimination.

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

Permits employees discriminated against by employers with 9 or more employees to recover back pay (up to 2 years prior to filing), attorney's fees, and in cases of intentional discrimination, compensatory and punitive damages.

Exempts religious organizations from employment discrimination restrictions when hiring individuals of particular faiths for religiously-connected work, and excludes small lodging establishments, private clubs, and houses of worship from public accommodation requirements; effective July 1, 2020.