Adding “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to the categories covered by the Human Rights Act and WV Fair Housing Act

HB 2763 would expand West Virginia's Human Rights Act and Fair Housing Act to prohibit discrimination based on "sexual orientation" and "gender identity." The bill adds these categories to existing protections covering race, religion, sex, age, disability, and other characteristics in employment, housing, and public accommodations. It specifically defines "gender identity" as an individual's actual or perceived gender-related identity, expression, appearance, or mannerisms, regardless of sex assigned at birth. This bill directly affects all West Virginia residents seeking employment, housing, or access to public spaces by making these forms of discrimination unlawful under state law.