House Approves
Ban on Job Bias Against Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals

The House on Wednesday approved the first federal ban on job discrimination against gays, lesbians, and bisexuals.

Passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act came despite protests from some gay rights supporters that the bill does not protect transgender workers. That term covers transsexuals, cross-dressers, and others whose outward appearance does not match their sex at birth.

The measure would make it illegal for employers to make decisions about hiring, firing, promoting, or paying an employee based on sexual orientation. It would exempt churches and the military.

After the 235-184 vote, supporters are expecting a tough fight in the narrowly divided Senate, where Massachusetts Democrat Edward Kennedy plans to introduce a similar version.

A veto from President Bush is expected if the proposal does pass the Senate.

Backers of the House bill proclaimed it a major civil rights advance for gays. ''Bigotry and homophobia are sentiments that should never be allowed to permeate the American workplace,'' said House Majority whip James Clyburn of South Carolina. (AP, Andrew Miga)