Transgender bill supporters are hopeful of OK

TheStamfordTimes.com – By Steve Kobak

Hartford – Supporters believe a bill protecting transgender persons under existing non-discrimination statutes in Connecticut will pass in the next session.

The bill, which died in the state house of representatives on June 6, is a step towards solidifying the legal protection of transgender persons, according to the bill’s backers.

“This bill is important because there are many people, including employers, who think that it’s okay to fire transgender people,” said Jennifer Levi, senior staff attorney for Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders [GLAAD].

The bill worked its way through the judiciary committee, government administration and elections committee, the higher education committee and the education committee with minor opposition before passing 30 to 4 in the state Senate. It failed to pass the House of Representatives.