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US SB1503

Bill

Status

Introduced

4/29/2025

Primary Sponsor

Jeff Merkley

Click for details

Origin

Senate

119th Congress

AI Summary

  • Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to add "sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity)" as a protected class in public accommodations, public facilities, public education, federal funding programs, employment, housing, credit, and jury service

  • Expands the definition of public accommodations beyond traditional venues to include online retailers, healthcare providers, shelters, transportation services, and any establishment providing goods, services, or programs

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

  • Requires that individuals not be denied access to shared facilities (restrooms, locker rooms, dressing rooms) in accordance with their gender identity

  • Explicitly prohibits use of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 as a defense against claims or to challenge enforcement of the covered anti-discrimination provisions

Legislative Description

Equality Act

Civil rights and liberties, minority issues

Last Action

Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

4/29/2025

Committee Referrals

Judiciary4/29/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available