This bill prohibits federal courts from using race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or related characteristics when calculating damages awards based on a plaintiff's future earning potential in civil cases. The legislation applies to how courts estimate lost wages or income in personal injury and other civil lawsuits. Within 180 days of enactment, the Department of Labor and Attorney General must develop guidance for forensic economists and states on creating "inclusive" wage tables that don't rely on demographic factors, while the Judicial Conference must study current damages practices within one year and report findings to Congress by 18 months. The Federal Judicial Center will also provide training to federal judges on implementing the new rules. The bill preserves courts' ability to award damages based on civil rights laws or membership in protected classes, meaning it targets only the methodology used in calculating future earnings projections rather than eliminating protections in discrimination cases.
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