Issues of a Homsexual Nature
U.S.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a hate crimes bill today, extending protection from discrimination to gays, lesbians, and transgendered peoples. [via Yahoo News and 365Gay.com]
Massachusetts
In a joint session today, Massachusetts House and Senate rejected a bill that would have amended to state constitution to ban gay marriage. The bill narrowly passed last year, but failed this year by 157-39. An amendment requires a passing vote in two successive sessions of the state legislature. [via 365Gay.com]
California
Governor Schwarzenegger will meet with LGBT leaders next week to discuss his decision to veto the Marriage Equality legislation passed by the California Legislature last week. The legislature decided to delay sending the bill to the governor, known as the ‘12 Days of Equality’ project. During this time they had hoped marriage equality supporters would make their voices heard. This meeting between Gov. Schwarzenegger and the LGBT leaders is a step in a positive direction. [via 365Gay.com]
Also in the Golden State, Ted Lieu, an open supporter of gay rights and marriage equality, won a special election for the State Assembly seat for Torrance, CA. [via 365Gay.com]