Frank introduces trans-inclusive ENDA bill

Frank introduces trans-inclusive ENDA bill
by Lisa Keen
Copyright by Keen News Service
2009-07-01
http://www.windycitymediagroup.com/gay/lesbian/news/ARTICLE.php?AID=21689


The LGBT community erupted in anger 20 months ago when U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., introduced a version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act ( ENDA ) that excluded protection for “gender identity.” Critics also charged that the 2007 ENDA was “riddled with loopholes” that significantly weakened protections even for lesbians and gay men in the workplace. Frank said a bill including protections for transgendered people simply didn't have the votes.
Times have changed. Transgender people have lobbied. And Frank says the support has grown for a fully inclusive bill.

Frank, on June 24, introduced a 2009 version of the legislation, which seeks to prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

“I think we're in good shape on it,” said Frank, in an interview June 22. “The transgender community—I will credit. I wish other people in the community were following them. … They did the grassroots lobbying very well.”

Frank said there were three reasons for optimism around passage of an inclusive ENDA now. First, he said, the House has already held a hearing on including transgender in the bill. Second, there are 21 new Democrats in the House since the 2008 elections, and “14 or 15” are likely supporters of the bill. The 2007 version of ENDA passed the House 235-184.

And third, there is no threat of a presidential veto looming over the legislation.



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