Knowledge is power. Colorado has five laws that protect and enrich the lives of LGBT people. And the more people are familiar with these laws the more successful the laws will be at engendering fairness and equality. The right to live in a state that is free from discrimination is a core value that all Coloradans share.
In May 2007, Governor Bill Ritter signed the expanded Employment Nondiscrimination Act to add protection for sexual orientation, including transgender status. This expanded law defines sexual orientation as heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or transgender status. Under this Colorado Law, it is illegal to consider sexual orientation or gender identity when making employment-related decisions, including hiring, firing,Read more >>
In May 2008, Governor Bill Ritter signed the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act to add protections for LGBT people in public accommodations (i.e., restaurants and hotels) and housing. A public accommodation is defined as an entity that offers sales or services of any kind to the public: businesses, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, clinics, and health clubs. Under thisRead more >>
A hate crime threatens or takes the life of more than just the victim; it creates a ripple effect that threatens the well being of an entire group. The Colorado Hate Crimes Law was recently expanded to include sexual orientation and transgender status. This law covers harassment or intent to intimidate based on a person’sRead more >>
In 2007, Governor Ritter signed a bill into law that allows unmarried couples to adopt each other’s children. This law also affords same-sex couples the opportunity to jointly accept the legal rights of being a parent. Under this law, children of LGBT couples will now have two legal parents. This law benefits children and ultimatelyRead more >>
Effective as of July 1, 2009, the Designated Beneficiaries Agreement allows two unmarried adults including same-sex couples to sign a document that allows certain rights and financial protections. This new, low-cost tool allows LGBT Coloradans to plan for end-of-life decision-making, inheritance, hospital visitation, and emergency situations. This document allows two unmarried adults to name oneRead more >>
The Colorado Civil Rights Division handles complaints for individuals who have experienced discrimination and wish to file a complaint. If you feel you were discriminated against, you may file a complaint if the alleged discrimination occurred during the following time period: Employment: must be filed within 6 months of alleged discrimination Accommodations: must be filedRead more >>
