THE House of Representatives on Monday unanimously passed House Bill 22-87 prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, gender identity and sexual orientation.
Authored by Rep. Tina Sablan, H.B. 22-87, also known as the CNMI Equality Act or Aktun Acha-Parehu/Alléghul Awecwcppagh of 2021, now goes to the Senate.
All the 18 House members present voted yes to pass the measure. Reps. Donald Manglona and Sheila Babauta were excused.
The measure protects employees from discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation. It prohibits employers from refusing to hire or to discharge any individual, or otherwise to discriminate against an individual, based on the individual’s hair texture or hairstyle, if that hair texture or that hairstyle is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin.
A court that has found such discrimination may grant damages if it deems fit against anyone who violates the Act. The bill will impose a fine of not more than $2,000.
In addition, H.B. 22-87 would prohibit discrimination of civil service employees on account of age, race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation, or place of origin.
It would also provide equal opportunity to athletes, coaches, trainers, managers, administrators and officials to participate in athletic competitions without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin.
Prior to the roll-call vote, Sablan noted that June is Pride Month, which is about celebrating the contributions of LGBTQ+ members around the world.
She said her bill is strongly supported by the LGBTQ+ advocacy community and other stakeholders.
Rep. Tina Sablan speaks during the House session on Monday.
