HB 2244 - DIGEST

     Provides for the elimination of the use of race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, or status as a sexual minority as a criterion for granting preferential treatment to any individual or group.

     Applies to the state and any unit of local government.

     Requires that public employment actions be based on a bona fide merit system.

     Declares that the human rights commission shall be the prime state agency dealing with discrimination and shall assume the powers, responsibilities, budget, staff, and any liabilities of the council on aging, Washington state commission on African-American affairs, Washington state commission on Hispanic affairs, and Washington state commission on Asian Pacific American affairs.