Bill > SB341

This bill aims to protect individuals from discrimination by essential services providers (such as financial institutions and utility companies) based on their exercise of constitutional rights or social credit scores. The bill defines "essential services" as financial and utility services, and prohibits providers with over $2 billion in assets from denying services to customers due to their speech, association, religious exercise, firearms ownership, or other constitutionally protected activities. The legislation introduces new legal provisions that would allow individuals who believe they have been discriminated against to sue service providers for up to $50,000 per violation (potentially increased to $150,000 for willful violations), with the requirement that such actions first be referred to the Attorney General for investigation. The bill was prompted by recent alleged instances of "debanking" - where financial institutions reportedly terminated accounts based on political affiliations - and seeks to ensure that citizens can access critical services regardless of their personal beliefs or activities. The bill also requires the Attorney General to investigate potential violations and publish reports explaining decisions not to pursue action, and mandates that financial institutions facing potential violations be referred to the Department of Banking and Finance for further investigation.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71416