House Bill 317 would amend Maryland’s civil rights law in the area of public accommodations, such as restaurants.

The subcommittee I chair had amended the bill. Consequently, I was the floor leader when it was debated yesterday.

This is what was said.

Delegate Fisher: Mr. Speaker, I just want to remind the body that this is a bill where you are paid for making a complaint and you actually receive the funds from a business when you make a compliant. Thank you.

Delegate Rosenberg: You are paid if your civil rights have been violated not merely if you make a complaint. So if harm is done to you, you are entitled to compensation. Thank you.  

Either my colleague had not read the bill or he was deliberately misleading the House of Delegates.

The bill passed, 97-39. It was a party-line vote.