52269E03AFF71782872586A2006B9657 Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. a quorum was present. Representative Esgar, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 21-1108, concerning updates to prohibitions against gender-based discrimination to clarify the individuals who are included in a protected class. Representative Esgar explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

The following persons testified regarding HB 21-1108:

David Meek, representing himself, testified in opposition to the bill. Mr. Meek responded to questions regarding religious issues.

Autumn Brooks, representing Clear Creek School District Re-1, testified in support of HB 21-1108.

Evie Hudak, representing Colorado PTA, testified in support of the bill.

Clayton Wire, representing the Plaintiff Employment Lawyers Association, testified in support of the bill.

Iris Halpern, representing Rathod Mohamedbhai LLC, testified in support of the bill.

Elizabeth Peetz, representing the Colorado Association of Realtors, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Halpern responded to questions regarding the potential for HB 21-1108 to be at odds with federal legislation on gender identity. Ms. Halpern responded to questions regarding changes in certain definitions in HB 21-1108 and those in SB 20-221, and how certain terms are defined in the laws of other states. Mr. Wire provided input on these issues. Ms. Halpern and Mr. Wire responded to questions regarding the definition of sexual orientation, and caselaw surrounding the definition.

Brittany Vessely, representing the Colorado Catholic Conference, testified in opposition to HB 21-1108. Ms. Vessely responded to questions regarding nonprofit exemptions from certain anti-discrimination laws.

Representative Esgar provided closing remarks in support of HB 21-1108. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.