An Act strengthening nondiscrimination policies

SD 1796 requires all Massachusetts executive departments and agencies to create and maintain detailed nondiscrimination plans by January 1, 2027. These plans must cover prohibiting discrimination (including for volunteers, interns, and contractors), collecting demographic data, allowing anonymous reporting of discrimination or retaliation, and ensuring investigations protect reporters. Agencies must also outline disciplinary actions for violations and include regular training on nondiscrimination policies, updating plans at least every two years. The plans must be submitted to state legislative committees, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, and the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity.