Bill Would Expand Anti-Bias Law

Idaho’s state Human Rights Commission has endorsed legislation adding sexual orientation to the state’s anti-discrimination law. Just two years ago, the commission opposed such legislation and lawmakers refused to introduce it. This year, the legislation already has been introduced, and Senate Minority Leader Edgar Malepeai, D-Pocatello, pictured, says he’s hopeful lawmakers will consider it, especially now that the Human Rights Commission has voted 7-2 in favor of it. … At least 20 states, including Washington, ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. But Idaho lawmakers have rejected the idea repeatedly over the past decade, most recently in 2009. That year, the commission voted 5-4 against backing it/ Betsy Russell , Eye On Boise. More here .

Question: Will the 2011 Legislature expand the anti-discrimination law to include sexual orientation and gender identity?