StarBulletin.com
A Bill approved by the U.S. House draws federal law closer into alignment with Hawaii’s progressive civil rights statutes, forbidding discrimination against gays, lesbians and bisexuals in the workplace.
The Senate, led by Massachusetts Democrat Edward Kennedy, will likely move similar legislation to expand nationwide the protection that 20 states have put in place. President Bush, who threatened to veto previous bills and isn’t one to change course, should let the measure pass without his signature if fairness and equality are principles he values.
For nearly 33 years, advocates have sought a federal shield to ensure people aren’t denied job opportunities and pay because of sexual orientation, just as laws bar discrimination because of religion, race, pregnancy, ethnicity, sex, age and disability.