Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB501

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/18/23
• Refer: 10/18/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, education, insurance coverage, national guard, jury duty, and adoption and in the receipt of mental health or vocational rehabilitation services.

Impact

The passage of AB 501 would have significant implications for state laws concerning equality and anti-discrimination. Specifically, it would explicitly include protections for gender identity and expression in statutes related to employment, housing, and the enjoyment of public accommodations. This change aligns state law with evolving societal norms regarding gender identity and could potentially limit discrimination against individuals based on their gender identity in various public and private settings, thereby promoting inclusivity and equality.

Summary

Assembly Bill 501 aims to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's gender identity or gender expression in various areas, including employment, housing, public accommodations, and education. The bill defines gender identity and gender expression broadly, encompassing gender-related identity, appearance, and behavior, irrespective of the individual’s sex at birth or gender identifiers on official documents. By updating existing anti-discrimination laws, the bill strives to enhance legal protections for members of the LGBTQ community, ensuring they have equal access to opportunities and services.

Contention

Despite its aims, AB 501 has been met with controversy. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards ensuring equal rights for all individuals, particularly those who identify as transgender or non-binary. Conversely, some critics express concerns that the bill may infringe on the rights of individuals and organizations that have differing beliefs about gender and sex. This contention highlights the ongoing societal debate around gender identity, the rights of transgender individuals, and the implications for businesses and educational institutions.