This morning the House Commerce committee heard testimony on House Bill 5804, legislation that would amend the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes.

The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, generally speaking, prohibits discriminatory practices, policies, and customs based upon religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex,
height, weight, familial status, or marital status.

The League is supportive of this legislation. Prohibiting discrimination is critical for attracted and retaining talented employees in Michigan. Unfortunately the committee did not have the votes to report the bill.

Samantha Harkins is the Director of State Affairs for the League handling municipal finance issues.  She can be reached at sharkins@mml.org or 517-908-0306.