Sex discrimination bill killed in SD

Associated Press

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – A move to prevent discrimination against gay and transgender people has been rejected by South Dakota lawmakers.

The House Health Committee voted 8-4 Tuesday to kill a measure that would have added sexual orientation, gender identity, age, and military status to the list of characteristics protected against discrimination. The law for many years has barred discrimination because of race, religion, disability or ethnic background.

The bill’s main sponsor, Rep. Deb Peters of Hartford, says gay and transgender people need protection against unfair treatment in jobs and housing.

But opponents say the bill could have interfered with the rights of religious-based organizations.

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