How They Voted On The LGBTQ Discrimination Bill

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WASHINGTON, D.C.–Indiana’s Susan Brooks, is one of eight Republicans who voted in favor of the Equality Act, which bans discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation. The bill would have to pass the Senate and be signed by the president to become law.

“Discrimination of any kind, towards anyone, is wrong and at this time in our nation’s history, we cannot turn a blind eye to the discrimination the LGBTQ community faces,” said Brooks, in a prepared statement.

The bill, which was written in 2015, has gotten criticism from Republicans, some of whom believe it would give government too much of a say in church policy, and forces acceptance of gender identity.

“The #EqualityAct is perhaps the most radical proposal ever put forth in the House, violating the cornerstone of American freedom in religious liberty and rights of conscience. I voted “no” without hesitation on it and urge all Americans to see this bill for what it is,” Tweeted Rep. Jim Banks (R).

But, Brooks, sees the Act as necessary, and even wrote a provision within the Equality Act.

“Because I’m aware of the discrimination members of the LGBTQ community face around the country when renting or buying a place to call home, I’ve authored legislation with Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL10) that has been included as a provision in the Equality Act. This provision ensures anyone, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, handicap, familial status and national origin is treated fairly and equally under the law as they buy or rent a home,” said Brooks.

Both of Indiana’s Democrat representatives voted in favor of the bill, which passed 236-173.

“In a majority of states, members of this community don’t have these explicit protections, meaning they can legally be fired from their job, denied housing, and face a number of other injustices simply because of who they are or who they love. That’s unfair and un-American, plain and simple. The Equality Act helps right this wrong, while also respecting religious exemption laws already on the books,” said Rep. Andre Carson. Rep. Pete Visclosky, also voted in favor of the bill.

Representatives Jim Baird, Trey Hollingsworth, Greg Pence, and Jackie Walorski, voted against the bill.

 

Photo by Toni Reed on Unsplash