What does

the Unruh Act do?

The Unruh Act requires businesses to give customers full and equal access to their services without discriminating against their sex, race, national origin, immigration status, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, or religion.

What businesses does the law apply to?

The Unruh Act protects customers from discrimination at most businesses in California. This includes stores, restaurants and bars, hotels, beauty salons, gyms, hospitals and doctors offices, banks, and more. This also includes organizations that offer business-like services for the public, like a country club.

Can businesses exclude certain customers?

It depends. A business can turn someone away if they have a legitimate reason that doesn't discriminate againt them. For example, banning a customer who previously cashed bad checks and still owes money to the business. A business can also ban someone who destroys property, attacks others, or disrupts the business.