In historic move, Senate committee approves trans-inclusive ENDA
Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - 11:10am by Hannah Moch, National News Media Intern at GLAAD

http://www.glaad.org/blog/historic-move-senate-committee-approves-trans-inclusive-enda

For the first time ever, a Senate committee today approved a transgender-inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would protect American workers on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. In 29 states, there are no protections for lesbian, gay or bisexual employees; in 33 states, there are no protections for transgender workers.

"The lack of national workplace protections causes countless LGBT Americans to hide who they are out of fear of losing their job and livelihood," said GLAAD Spokesperson Wilson Cruz. "Today's bipartisan move to bring the Employment Non-Discrimination Act to the Senate floor is an encouraging step forward and Congress should now move swiftly to protect every American worker — no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity."

The bill, which was approved with bipartisan support, will now face a vote in the Senate before advancing to the House.

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HISTORIC: Senate panel advances trans-inclusive ENDA

By Chris Johnson on July 10, 2013

http://www.washingtonblade.com/2013/07/10/historic-senate-panel-advances-trans-inclusive-enda/

A Senate committee made history on Wednesday by approving for the first time a trans-inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and picking up key Republican support from Sens. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

Lawmakers on the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee reported out ENDA by a 15-7 vote after a short period of discussion. No amendments were offered except for a manager's amendment, although Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) said he'll reserve three that he planned for consideration on the Senate floor.

Senate HELP Committee Chair Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) noted the historic nature of the committee's action prior to the vote and said it's "time, long past time" for Congress to take action against LGBT workplace discrimination.

"Qualified workers should not be turned away or have to fear losing their livelihood for reasons that have nothing to do with their qualifications, skills or performance," Harkin said. "Let's not mince words: such practices are un-American. They should have no plans in any American workplace."

I just got notification of this and came here to check, this is great news

I hope it actually gets through all the way. It is the only way for protection in some states.

This makes me so happy and hopeful.

Crosses her fingers and hopes it rides the 'wave'...   It would help a lot of people..  I often wonder if there are way more of us out there then we  even know statistically since not everyone is on the 'radar'.  I lived my life under it, the radar, till two years ago and had no clue just how many there were right around me that are active online.  Who knows how many more here alone are just living their life as I was.   

I won't be counted...since I'm in the private route
At least I think that's how it is in Canada

Quote from: Lorri Kat on July 10, 2013, 01:14:25 PM
Crosses her fingers and hopes it rides the 'wave'...   It would help a lot of people..  I often wonder if there are way more of us out there then we  even know statistically since not everyone is on the 'radar'.  I lived my life under it, the radar, till two years ago and had no clue just how many there were right around me that are active online.  Who knows how many more here alone are just living their life as I was.   

you are right, for years here I was sort of an activist, but in about six months I am moving to a new city, my federal ID is already changed and I have already petitioned the court for my birth certificate change, I will be full stealth by the time I move to the new city. Only my doctors will know.