Bill: Proposed The Wool-Penguin Act

[SimplyMadi]

Author: Regyna Allen MP
Type: Act of Parliament

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BILL​

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Prohibit discrimination in employment, services, housing, and public life on the basis of personal characteristics such as race, gender, sexuality, religion, and other protected traits.


Preamble:
This bill establishes a legal framework to ensure that every individual in Azalea Isles is treated fairly and equally. Discrimination, whether overt or subtle, undermines public trust, damages communities, and restricts opportunity. This legislation makes it unlawful to discriminate against others based on their identity, beliefs, or status in both public and private sectors, including businesses, government agencies, housing, employment, and social settings. It also provides mechanisms for victims to report discrimination and seek justice.​

1 - Protected Characteristics

(a) A person may not be discriminated against on the basis of:
(i) Race or ethnicity
(ii) Gender or gender identity
(iii) Sexual orientation
(iv) Religion or belief
(v) Disability
(vi) Age
(vii) Socioeconomic status or background
(viii) Nationality or place of origin
(b) Additional characteristics may be added via future amendment as social and legal contexts evolve.


2 - Unlawful Discrimination

(a) It is unlawful to deny, restrict, or disadvantage a person based on a protected characteristic in the following areas:
(i) Employment – including hiring, promotion, discipline, and termination
(ii) Housing – including rental agreements, sales, or evictions
(iii) Public Services – including access to government, healthcare, and emergency services
(iv) Businesses – including shops, restaurants, private companies, and financial institutions
(v) Education and training – including access to apprenticeships or training programs
(vi) Media and public platforms – including repeated targeting or harassment in social media or news


3 - Employer and Business Responsibilities

(a) All employers and service providers, private and government-owned, must provide equal access and opportunity.
(b) Government departments must have anti-discrimination policies and handle complaints internally when possible.
(c) Employers must not retaliate against employees who report discrimination.


4 - Reporting and Enforcement

(a) Any individual who believes they have been discriminated against may file a report to:
(i) The Civil Rights Commission, to be formed or assigned under this Act, or
(ii) The Judiciary for civil or criminal review depending on severity.
(b) Investigations will determine whether a violation occurred and recommend penalties or restorative action.
(c) Whistleblowers shall be protected from retaliation or further discrimination.


5 - Penalties for Violation

(a) Individuals or businesses found to be in violation of this Act may face:
(i) Fines ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on severity and recurrence,
(ii) Temporary business suspension, up to 14 days,
(iii) For government officials, referral to Parliament for disciplinary action, potentially including removal from office.
(b) Victims of discrimination may also be awarded compensation or restitution following a successful claim.


Enactment: This Act comes into force immediately upon passage.