The "Equality Act" seeks to establish comprehensive federal protections against discrimination based on sex , sexual orientation , and gender identity . It aims to clarify and expand existing civil rights laws to ensure consistent application across various sectors. The bill explicitly defines "sex" to include sexual orientation, gender identity, sex stereotypes, pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions, and intersex traits. It also defines "gender identity" as an individual's gender-related identity, appearance, or characteristics, regardless of designated sex at birth, and "sexual orientation" as homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality. A significant provision of the bill amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination based on sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity, in public accommodations . It broadens the definition of public accommodations to encompass a wide array of establishments, such as stores, online retailers, healthcare providers, transportation services, and shelters. The bill clarifies that these protections extend to individuals whose operations affect commerce, not just physical facilities. Furthermore, it mandates that individuals shall not be denied access to shared facilities, like restrooms or locker rooms, in accordance with their gender identity. Similar anti-discrimination provisions are extended to public facilities and public education. The legislation explicitly incorporates protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity into federal employment law. It amends Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as the Government Employee Rights Act of 1991, the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, and the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. These amendments ensure that federal employees and those covered by these acts are protected from discrimination based on these characteristics. Additionally, the bill prohibits discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance . The bill extends anti-discrimination protections to housing by amending the Fair Housing Act to include sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics. It also modifies the Equal Credit Opportunity Act to prohibit discrimination based on these factors in credit transactions. Finally, the "Equality Act" ensures that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited in jury selection and service , amending relevant sections of Title 28 of the U.S. Code. The bill also specifies that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 cannot be used to justify discrimination under these expanded civil rights protections.