MS SB2359

Establishes comprehensive civil rights protections in Mississippi prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, immigrant status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and familial status

Covers employment (for employers with 9+ employees), public accommodations, housing and property transactions, credit and contracts, and public educational institutions

Allows individuals to file civil lawsuits seeking injunctive relief, compensatory damages, punitive damages, back pay (for employment cases), litigation costs, and attorney's fees

Exempts religious organizations from employment discrimination provisions when hiring for religious activities, excludes private clubs, houses of worship, and small owner-occupied lodging establishments from public accommodation requirements

Takes effect July 1, 2026