Bill > H3374

This bill aims to restore enforcement of civil rights by prohibiting units of state, county, or local government from discriminating against individuals based on race, color, national origin, or gender in any program or activity. The bill provides a private right of action for individuals who have been aggrieved by such discrimination, allowing them to file a civil lawsuit in state court within 3 years of the violation. The court can award actual and punitive damages, as well as attorneys' fees and costs to a prevailing plaintiff. The bill also clarifies the definition of a "prevailing party" to include those who obtain some of the requested relief through a settlement or whose pursuit of a non-frivolous claim led to a unilateral change in the government's position.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H3374