Discrimination Based Upon Sexual Orientation

Contents

• Introduction
• Legal References
• Documents
• Additional References

Introduction

The State Human Rights Commission, which enforces laws prohibiting various forms of discrimination in employment, as well as in other areas, such as accommodations, real estate, commerce, and credit, has had its authority expanded in 2006 by passage of ESHB 2661 (Laws of 2006, ch. 4) (), RCW 49.60.180. Since June 7, 2006, the Commission has been authorized to enforce laws prohibiting discrimination based upon a person's sexual orientation, in addition to other laws prohibiting discrimination based upon a person's of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a disabled person.

Legal References

• RCW 49.60.180 - Sets out unfair practices by employers, including discrimination based upon sexual orientation
• Laws of 2006, ch. 4 (ESHB 2661) () - Relating to and prohibiting various forms of discrimination based upon sexual orientation and providing Human Rights Commission with enforcement authority. Codified at RCW 49.60.180.

Documents

• Bellevue Ordinance No. 5694() - Amends the Human Resources Code by authorizing the inclusion of "sexual orientation" in the defintion of harassment to be consistent with RCW 49.60.180(1), passed 09/18/2006
• Spokane Municipal Code Ch. 1.06 - Law Against Discrimination including discrimination based on sexual orientation

Additional References

• Human Rights Commission, Washington State
  • Frequently asked questions relating to Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity Questions applicable to Employers - Question and answer format prepared by the Human Rights Commission
  • Self-Assessment Guide
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Related MRSC Resources

MRSC Index - Sex discrimination, gender bias