Business Establishments Equal access to businesses is protected California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act protects those with the characteristics listed in the box “Who is protected?” from discrimination or harassment by business establishments. This law requires both public and private businesses to provide individuals “full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges or services.” It applies to housing and public accommodations as well as to establishments such as stores, restaurants, barber shops, among others. The Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) enforces the Unruh Act and the state’s other anti-discrimination laws and has several responsibilities: Investigate discrimination and harassment complaints Encourage and assist the voluntary resolution of complaints Prosecute violations of the law Educate the public about discrimination and how to avoid it Complaint process Filing a complaint Respond to a complaint What remedies are available? State law provides for a variety of remedies for victims of discrimination, including: Out-of-pocket expenses Cease and desist orders Damages for emotional distress Punitive damages Statutory damages Attorney’s fees and costs Who is protected?California law protects individuals from illegal discrimination by a business establishment based on the following: Race, color Ancestry, national origin Religion Primary language Citizenship, immigration status Disability, mental or physical Sex, gender (including pregnancy) Sexual orientation Gender identity, gender expression Medical condition Genetic information Marital status Business establishments Hotels and motels Restaurants Theaters Bars and nightclubs Retail stores Golf courses Fitness clubs or gyms Hospitals Barber and beauty shops Housing accommodations Public agencies Non-profit organizations (open to the public) Disability requirementsFor details on how business establishments are required to accommodate those with disabilities, click here. ResourcesDFEH provides multiple resources for anyone needing more information on California’s laws against discrimination in the business establishments. Posters, brochures, and fact sheets Frequently Asked Questions