Bill Advances to Outlaw Discrimination Against Gays

“A measure that would outlaw workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity overcame a significant obstacle in the Senate on Monday as seven Republicans crossed party lines and voted to begin debate on the bill,” the New York Times reports.

“The 61-30 vote marks the first time since 1996 that the full Senate will consider a measure to extend federal nondiscrimination law to gay, lesbian and bisexual people — a stark reminder, supporters said, that as the public has come around to accepting gay rights, Congress has been slow to keep pace. ”

Roll Call: “It’s unclear what will happen to the legislation now, with Speaker John A. Boehner (R-OH) already saying he won’t support it but feeling pressure to bring the bill to the floor for a vote.”

The Week: 5 reasons Republicans oppose the measure