This resolution calls on Congress to enact the Equality Act. The Equality Act updates the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include protections based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations, public education, federal funding, credit, and the jury system. To cite one of example of the importance of these protections, updating the federal definition of public accommodations would ensure that all individuals will be able to access and use social and public spaces. The Equality Act would maintain exemptions that religious organizations and schools currently enjoy, but would make clear that religion cannot be used to justify refusal of service based on a person’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Status: Passed by California Legislature, August 24, 2016

Author: Asm. David Chiu (D-San Francisco)

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