West Virginia Senate Passes Bill to Overturn Local LGBTQ+ Protections
Charleston, WV – In a significant legislative move, the West Virginia Senate has passed Senate Bill 579, a measure that seeks to nullify non-discrimination ordinances adopted by 20 cities and counties across the state. These local ordinances have long protected LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in employment and housing. The bill passed with a 25-8 vote and now proceeds to the House of Delegates for further consideration. (newsandsentinel.com)
Senate Bill 579 aims to create uniformity in municipal laws by prohibiting cities and counties from enacting non-discrimination ordinances that extend protections beyond those specified in the state Human Rights Act. The state law currently prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, familial status, blindness, veteran status, handicap, or national origin. However, it does not include sexual orientation or gender identity among the protected classes. (newsandsentinel.com)
Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to ensure consistent application of non-discrimination laws across the state. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Mike Stuart stated, "The purpose of Senate Bill 579 is to prohibit municipalities participating in the Home Rule program from establishing additional protected classes of persons beyond what is designated in state statute today." (newsandsentinel.com)
Opponents, including 44 current and former municipal mayors and council members, have criticized the bill as state overreach. They argue that local governments should have the authority to enact ordinances that reflect the values and priorities of their communities. Ash Orr, President of Morgantown Pride, expressed concern over the potential impact on the LGBTQ+ community, stating, "Losing access and losing that protection to the NDO is going to impact everyone." (wvva.com)
The passage of Senate Bill 579 marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over LGBTQ+ rights and local governance in West Virginia. As the bill moves to the House of Delegates, stakeholders on both sides of the issue are preparing for further discussions and potential amendments.
West Virginia Senate Passes Bill to Overturn Local LGBTQ+ Protections:
- West Virginia Senate passes bill stripping cities of non-discrimination ordinances | News, Sports, Jobs – News and Sentinel
- Senate Bill 579 looks to strip W.Va. cities of non-discrimination ordinances
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