News Mods,
I considered this news, but feel free to move it where you will. The following is a letter posted to me from the congressman.
Shauna
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Dear Ms. O'Toole:
According to the Constitution, my job title is "Representative," and I want to make sure that is my job description, as well. To do my job, I need to know the opinions of my constituents, and your input regarding legislative issues is crucial. Thank you for contacting me regarding H.R. 3017, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2009, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. I appreciate hearing from you and welcome the opportunity to respond.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 sought to end discriminatory practices in employment based on race. Since then, similar legislation has been passed to include equal treatment of Americans with disabilities. In 2007, the House of Representatives passed a version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act that would protect individuals against employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, that bill did not include a provision on gender identity.
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act was introduced by Representative Barney Frank (MA-4) on June 24, 2009, and is currently pending before the Committees on Education and Labor, Judiciary, and Oversight and Government Reform. If enacted, the bill would prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. It would address discrimination in the work place by making it illegal to fire, refuse to hire, or refuse to promote an employee simply based on a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. The threat of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity has a very real presence in American workplaces. We must ensure that all Americans are treated fairly and equally. Thank you for bringing the bill to my attention. After reviewing it, I have decided to cosponsor the legislation. Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress further considers this issue.
Being a member of Congress means I have to consider tough decisions and votes every day. I am humbled by the responsibility of representing you, as well as some 650,000 other people. I want you to know that I will continue to advocate for government accountability and transparency as I fight to bring jobs to Upstate New York and turn our economy around. You may also want to visit my website at
www.house.gov/maffei, where you can sign up for my e-newsletter, find out how I have voted on legislation and keep current with my latest congressional activities and policy statements.
Sincerely,
Daniel B. Maffei
Member of Congress
