Rep. Chu Statement on Introduction of Equality Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) joined Rep. David Cicilline (RI-01) and 237 other cosponsors to introduce the Equality Act. The Equality Act amends existing federal laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1965, the Fair Housing Act, the Equal Credit and Opportunity Act, and the Jury Selection Act to create a single national prohibition on discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation in employment, housing, public accommodation, education, and more. Currently, California is one of only 21 states to have an explicit law barring discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, housing, and public accommodation. Rep. Chu issued the following statement:
"Discrimination is wrong and un-American. It undermines our bedrock principle that we are judged on our merit, not our birth. But in a majority of states, this discrimination is still perfectly legal, leaving millions of LGBTQ individuals to fear eviction, firing, or other prejudice simply for who they are or who they love. No American should be denied an opportunity because of gender or orientation. That's what this bill will fix by creating one comprehensive standard to replace the patchwork that currently leaves people vulnerable to discrimination depending on where they live. The Equality Act provides consistency and clarity for all Americans. I'm proud to be a cosponsor of this bill and to stand up to any and all prejudice and discrimination in our laws."