Unfortunately this attempt failed to get through with the outcome being 5 votes for and 6 votes against the bill. Senator Jim Brochin's vote was the nail in the coffin (6 th vote) for this years attempt to push the bill to the next phase where a commitment from Governor Martin O'Malley had been made to sign the bill into law, without a favorable vote from committee. It was a big slap in the face (for me personally) to learn that Senator Jim Brochin's own district has trans discrimination protections in place, yet he was not supportive of the 20 remaining counties being afforded these same protections.
Voting in favor of the bill were, Senators Raskin, Forehand, Frosh, Gladden and Zirkin. Voting against the bill were Senators Stone, Muse, Jacobs, Brochin, Shank and Getty. Time to let these guys know what we think about their lack of responsibility when it comes to adding protections for one of the most vulnerable groups of people in the US.
Unlike my home state of Texas I am certain Maryland WILL get there sooner than later. Here's hoping 2013 is the year for many favorable changes that will allow the world to be a little more bearable for those of us who still struggle severely.
