Go to the mobile version of this Web site.

Login | Contact Us | Site Map | Paid archives | Electronic edition | Subscription Questions | Extras

Bill to protect gays gets initial approval

April M. Washington, Rocky Mountain News

Published April 17, 2007 at midnight

Text size  

More Colorado Government

More stories »

A bill to protect gays and lesbians from workplace discrimination won the Senate's initial backing Monday after a bruising partisan battle.

Senate Republicans said the measure seeks to make gays and lesbians a protected class of citizens.

"I don't think this bill should be foisted on the citizens of Colorado," said Sen. Ted Harvey, R-Highlands Ranch.

Senate Bill 25, by Sen. Jennifer Veiga, D-Denver, would make it illegal for employers to hire, fire, promote and compensate workers based on sexual orientation.

Democrats approved the bill on a 20-15 party-line vote. It marks the fifth straight year Democrats have tried to extend workplace discrimination laws to include sexual orientation.

The measure has been vetoed by former Republican Gov. Bill Owens or has died in GOP-controlled committees. This time, Democrats hope they have an ally in Democratic Gov. Bill Ritter.

"People should be judged based on their employment abilities and not on the basis of their gay and lesbian status," Veiga said.

Republicans charged that gays and transgendered residents do not qualify for a protected-class status, based on criteria in state and federal civil rights laws. Those criteria include demonstrating a history of societal oppression and encountering barriers to economic, educational and cultural opportunities based on race, color, gender or national origin.

"Members, you cannot say that about this group seeking special protection in the state of Colorado," said Sen. Greg Brophy, R-Wray. "Members of the group seeking special protection with this bill enjoy well- above-average economic success," and their educational opportunities are abundant, as evidenced by the number of degrees they hold, he said.

Veiga called such assertions absurd.

Veiga contends that gays and lesbians are increasingly being discriminated against in the workplace. Although data are limited, she said that in 2005 roughly 329 people sought legal help from the Center for Gay and Lesbian Rights about issues involving workplace discrimination.

"We know repeatedly, from people who have testified, that these claims are rampant and they are increasing," she said.