SB 1146 would close a loophole that allows private universities to discriminate against students and staff based on their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Under federal law, LGBT people are protected from discrimination by Title IX, though private academic institutions can request a waiver if they feel those requirements violate the tenets of their faith. Senate Bill 1146 would require universities that are granted a Title IX exemption to disclose that information to the California Student Aid Commission and disseminate the information to students and staff. The bill would also allow an individual who has encountered discrimination at a school claiming a Title IX exemption to pursue a remedy through a civil action.
Status: Passed by the California Senate, May 26, 2016
Author: Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens)