Bill > S1623

This bill requires every executive department and state agency to create, follow, and regularly update a plan to prevent discrimination, building upon existing nondiscrimination provisions from a 2011 law. This plan must cover all individuals associated with the agency, including employees, volunteers, interns, contractors, and program staff, and needs to be reviewed and updated at least every two years. Key components of the plan must include clear statements and descriptions of prohibited discrimination, procedures for collecting demographic data, and straightforward processes for anyone to report discrimination or retaliation, with the option to report anonymously without fear of disciplinary action for the reporter. The plan also needs to outline how reports will be promptly investigated, the range of disciplinary actions for perpetrators, and strategies to protect those who report discrimination or participate in investigations from retaliation. Furthermore, it should include provisions for counseling or referrals for both victims and perpetrators, detail procedures for ensuring equal access to state services for everyone, and establish a timeline for training all personnel on nondiscrimination and equal access principles. Finally, each agency must submit these comprehensive nondiscrimination plans to various legislative committees and state commissions by January 1, 2016.