Alabama 2022 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB27

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Discrimination, to make it unlawful to deny an individual full and equal employment of public accommodations based on certain protected classes, to make it unlawful for a local school board to discriminate against an individual based on certain protected classes, and to make it unlawful for an employer to discriminate against an applicant or employee based on certain protected classes

Impact

If passed, HB27 would create a significant state cause of action against employers, employment agencies, and labor organizations found to be discriminating against individuals based on the aforementioned protected classes. The bill introduces mechanisms for individuals who face discrimination to seek legal recourse without the fear of incurring court fees or costs. This proposed legal framework not only empowers individuals but also mandates compliance among entities in maintaining fair and equal treatment protocols within their operations.

Summary

House Bill 27 aims to strengthen anti-discrimination laws within the state by prohibiting discriminatory practices based on a set of defined protected classes. Under the bill, it becomes unlawful for any person or entity to deny any individual full and equal enjoyment of public accommodations, as well as prohibit local school boards, employers, employment agencies, and labor organizations from engaging in discriminatory acts towards individuals based on their race, sex, age, disability, or national origin. This legislative action seeks to promote equality and combat discrimination more effectively within the state.

Contention

The proposed legislation may face opposition regarding its implications for local governance and business practices. Critics might argue that HB27 could impose unnecessary constraints on private organizations and local authorities, limiting their ability to develop individualized policies based on community values. Furthermore, some may express concern over potential legal challenges stemming from the bill's provisions, citing fears that it could lead to a surge in litigation against businesses and institutions that may inadvertently violate the new mandates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB139

Discrimination, unlawful to deny an individual full and equal enjoyment of public accommodations based on protected classes; unlawful for a local school board to discriminate against individual based on protected classes; unlawful for employer or labor organization board to discriminate against employee or member based on protected classes; state cause of action created

AL HB20

To make it unlawful for a person to deny an individual full and equal enjoyment of public accommodations or for an employer to discriminate against an applicant or employee based upon the individual's weight or body size; state cause of action against an employer who does so created

AL HB520

Health; discrimination by certain entities against individuals who refuse certain immunizations, drugs, or facial coverings for reasons of conscience prohibited; civil cause of action for violations provided; Attorney General authorized to defend an entity subject to related federal penalties

AL HB21

Employment; requiring employers to provide reasonable break time and location for employees to express breast milk.

AL SB49

Employment practice, unlawful to inquire from job applicant information relating to arrests or conviction of crimes, criminal record, with exceptions

AL SB50

Crimes and offenses; unlawful possession of marijuana; crime revised based on amount of ounces possessed; criminal penalties revised

AL SB209

Taxation; to adjust the dollar value cap based on Consumer Price Index, of certain items exempt from sales tax during certain weekends

AL HB315

Taxation; to adjust the dollar value cap based on Consumer Price Index (CPI) of certain items exempt from sales tax during certain weekends

AL SB176

Crimes and offenses; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance further provided for; unlawful sale of a controlled substance enhancements amended; unlawful distribution of marijuana created and penalties established

AL HB516

Consumer protection, use of a computer to interact with a consumer when consumer believes the interaction is with a human is an unlawful trade practice

Similar Bills

CA AB2563

Sex discrimination: scope.

HI SB2871

Relating To Discrimination.

CA SB418

Health care coverage: prescription hormone therapy and nondiscrimination.

CA AB1876

Health care coverage: nondiscrimination.

CA ACR2

United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

HI HB1878

Relating To Discrimination.

NE LB538

Require the State Board of Education to develop a model policy regarding discrimination and antisemitism, require school boards to adopt a policy regarding discrimination and antisemitism, and provide for Title VI coordinators

NJ A2146

Prohibits discrimination with respect to charging of rates of premiums for disability and accident insurance.