Sen. Merkley proposes federal protection for gays against workplace discrimination.
Sen. Jeff Merkley recently introduced the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would provide federal protection for those who believe they have been discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The legislation introduced Wednesday by Merkley who was joined by fellow Democrat Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts and Republicans Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins of Maine. Oregon Democrat Ron Wyden is also an original co-sponsor.
If it becomes law, EDNA would prohibit employers, employment agencies, labor organizations and joint labor-management committees from firing, refusing to hire, or discriminating against those employed or seeking employment, on the basis of their perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity. Such protections are already in place prohibiting discrimination based on race, religion, gender, national origin, age, and disability.
Read the full story at OregonLive.com.
