Status of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Bill

On April 6, 2005, I reported on a Conference Committee being assigned on the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Bill. However, the House reconsidered its decision to disagree with the Senate Amendments. The Senate amendments were adopted by the House and the bill has been transmitted to the Governor.

HB 1715 SD1 This bill adds sexual orientation and gender identity to the category of protected classifications in the residential real property transactions. Sexual orientation is currently a protected classification under the State fair employment laws. The bill would mean that Hawaii condo associations would be subject to claims for discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill continues to vaguely define gender identity.