TLDEF Applauds Federal LGBT Rights Bill, the Equality Act

The Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) celebrates news that Democratic lawmakers in Congress have introduced the Equality Act, a bill to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people from discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodation, credit, and several other categories. The comprehensive legislation is aimed at ensuring that no one ever faces bias in America based on who they are or who they love.

Statement from TLDEF Staff Attorney Ethan Rice

“We applaud congressional leaders for introducing this landmark legislation. The Equality Act is vitally important to creating a nation where LGBT people are treated fairly in all areas of their lives including, on the job, in their homes, at the places they visit, and in matters that affect their finances.

“On the heels of the historic Supreme Court ruling that extended marriage protections to LGBT Americans, the Equality Act is the next big step on the road to full equality. LGBT people continue to face a patchwork of state and local laws that leave them vulnerable to being fired from their jobs, barred from public places, and at risk for losing their homes, among other biases. Transgender people in particular face even greater disparities in employment, housing, public accommodation, health care, and education.

“It is time for Congress to act once and for all, to ensure that LGBT Americans are clearly protected under federal law.”