SB 2279 Summary

• Adds sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under North Dakota's discrimination laws, prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, credit transactions, and public services.

• Defines "sexual orientation" as actual or perceived heterosexuality, bisexuality, homosexuality, or gender identity, and "gender identity" as actual or perceived gender-related identity, appearance, mannerisms, or characteristics regardless of designated gender at birth.

• Maintains existing religious organization exemptions allowing faith-based institutions to establish qualifications for religious positions and to limit employment and housing based on religion.

• Extends anti-discrimination protections to insurance transactions, jury service, and health care provider networks by adding sexual orientation to prohibited discrimination bases in insurance codes and jury selection laws.

• Applies the prohibition of sexual orientation discrimination across all areas previously protected by state law including employer hiring and firing decisions, labor organization membership, employment advertising, and real estate transactions.