Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that adds sexual orientation, which includes transgenderism, to the list of characteristics in which discrimination is prohibited with respect to employment, credit, housing, insurance, and public accommodations and services, with exemptions being granted to religious organizations.

Highlights:

-Defines "sexual orientation" as heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or transgenderism (Sec. 2). -Defines "transgender" as identification with a gender different than that assigned at birth (Sec. 2). -Authorizes religious organizations, associations, or societies to establish qualifications and hiring criteria requiring individuals be a member of that religion and adhere to that religion's tenets with respect to employment, volunteering, or granting access to its place of worship or parochial schools. However, it is specified that discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, or national origin with respect to employment and volunteers in nonreligious positions (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that adds sexual orientation, which includes gender identity, to the list of characteristics in which discrimination is prohibited with respect to employment, credit, housing, insurance, and public accommodations and services, with exemptions being granted to religious organizations.

Highlights:

- Defines "sexual orientation" as an actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or gender identity (Sec. 2). - Defines "gender identity" as an actual or perceived gender-related identity, appearance, mannerism, or other gender-related characteristics of an individual, regardless of the individual's designated gender at birth (Sec. 2). - Authorizes religious organizations, associations, or societies to establish qualifications and hiring criteria requiring individuals be a member of that religion and adhere to that religion's tenets with respect to employment, volunteering, or granting access to its place of worship or parochial schools. However, it is specified that discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, or national origin with respect to employment and volunteers in nonreligious positions (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text