Equality Act

Summary#

This bill, called the Equality Act, adds protections against discrimination based on sex to many existing federal civil rights laws. It makes clear that the word "sex" includes sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill amends laws that cover public accommodations, education, federal funding, employment, housing, credit, and jury service so that discrimination for being LGBTQ or for gender-related traits is prohibited. It defines gender identity and sexual orientation, extends protection to people who are perceived to have these traits or associated with someone who does, and says individuals must not be denied access to shared facilities consistent with their gender identity. The bill also says the Religious Freedom Restoration Act may not be used as a claim or defense against these covered civil-rights protections.

What it means for you#

• If you are an employee, student, renter, borrower, juror, or a person using public places or services, the bill would add or clarify protections against being treated differently because of sexual orientation or gender identity.
• The bill extends protections where federal funds are involved and to many kinds of businesses and services, including online providers, shelters, health care, and transportation.
• The bill defines terms so that people are protected for how they identify, how they appear, or for how others perceive them.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

The bill's findings state that LGBTQ people and women face widespread discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, public accommodations, credit, and child welfare. The findings say discrimination harms health, safety, economic security, and civic participation. The bill says making the protections explicit will clarify rights and remedies, increase access to services and homes, and provide consistent federal guidance across many laws.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.