Relates to including the basis of religious attire and facial hair in the definition of unlawful discriminatory practice
Senate Bill S 491 expands the definition of unlawful discriminatory practice in public accommodations. It specifically includes the wearing of religious attire, clothing, or facial hair in accordance with a person's religion under the protected characteristic of "creed." This means that owners, managers, or employees of public places cannot refuse services or deny accommodations to individuals based on these religious practices.
Bill status
died
3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Jan 2026
Senate Passage
Apr 2025
Assembly Passage
Governor
Introduced Jan 8, 2025
Last action Jan 7, 2026
Floor votes · Senate Apr 24, 2025
How they voted
51–0
Passed · 11 other
Total votes 62
Apr 24, 2025
D
Democratic40
87% Yea
R
Republican22
72% Yea
Vote distribution
All Yea
All Nay
Mixed
No data
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
10
Key actions
1
Committee
3
Jan 7, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
upper
Apr 24, 2025
Committee
REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
lower
Apr 24, 2025
Upper · Passed
PASSED SENATE
upper
Jan 8, 2025
Committee
REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
upper
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors
Sponsors
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