(1) A person may assert a violation of 42-7-202 as a claim against the state government in a judicial or administrative proceeding or as a defense in a judicial or administrative proceeding without regard to whether the proceeding is brought by or in the name of the state government, a private person, or another party.
(2) An action alleging a violation of 42-7-202:
(a) must be brought no later than 2 years after the date the person knew or should have known that a discriminatory action was taken against the person; and
(b) may be commenced, and relief may be granted, without regard to whether the person bringing the action has sought or exhausted available administrative remedies.
(3) A person who successfully asserts a claim or defense for a violation of 42-7-202 may recover:
(a) declaratory or injunctive relief;
(b) compensatory damages;
(c) reasonable attorney fees and costs; and
(d) any other appropriate relief.