Hawaii Senate Bill SCR11

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/26
• Refer: 2/13/26
• Report Pass: 4/8/26
• Engrossed: 4/9/26
• Refer: 4/10/26
• Report Pass: 4/24/26
• Passed: 4/27/26

Caption

Requesting The United States Congress To Pass Legislation To Amend The Civil Rights Act Of 1964 To Prohibit Discrimination On The Basis Of Sex, Sexual Orientation, And Gender Identity In Employment, Housing, Public Accommodations, Education, Federally Funded Programs, Credit, And Jury Service.

Impact

The resolution highlights the prevailing gaps in federal protections for sexual and gender minorities, noting that many individuals remain vulnerable to discrimination due to the lack of such prohibitions in various states. Hawaii has made significant progress in state-level protections with laws addressing discrimination, but advocates argue that federal legislation is necessary to create uniform standards that will curb discrimination in states lacking such protections. By calling for an amendment to the Civil Rights Act, SCR11 seeks to establish a foundational legal framework that supports equality and inclusion for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 11 (SCR11) is a legislative proposal from the State of Hawaii urging the United States Congress to amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Its primary focus is to prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity across several domains, including employment, housing, public accommodations, education, federally funded programs, credit access, and jury service. This resolution is part of a growing movement nationwide to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals receive comprehensive protections under federal law.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SCR11 revolve around the cultural and historical context of discrimination against sexual and gender minorities in the United States. The resolution acknowledges the historical acceptance of gender fluidity and same-sex relationships in Native Hawaiian culture while contrasting it with the persistent marginalization faced by these communities today. Additionally, there are discussions on the implications of the federal Equality Act, which has seen various versions introduced over decades but remains unpassed at the federal level. Critics may argue about the potential impact of such broad anti-discrimination laws on religious freedoms and individual rights, making the path toward acceptance and enactment complex.