By Bob Katzen

The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would add height and weight to Massachusetts’ existing anti-discrimination laws, by prohibiting discrimination, based on height and weight, in employment, education, housing and places of public accommodation.

The measure would require the Attorney General’s Office to investigate complaints unless the action in question is based on the purpose of compliance with any established state, federal or industry safety standards. It would also prohibit places of public accommodation, resort or amusement from issuing or circulating any policies or communications that signal discriminatory treatment based on body size, aligning this protection with how Massachusetts approaches other forms of discrimination.

“No one should lose out on a job, education or basic dignity because of their height or weight,” said sponsor Rep. Tram Nguyen (D-Andover). “Particularly, we know that the effects of weight-based discrimination do not fall evenly. Communities facing intersecting barriers, such as limited access to affordable, nutritious foods or other systemic inequities, are often hit hardest. This legislation expands nondiscrimination protection to ensure that every person in Massachusetts is treated with fairness, dignity and respect.”