House passes anti-gay bias bill

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. House of Representatives, by a vote of 235-184, passed a measure that would prohibit workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation.

"Discrimination has no place in America," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said during floor debate.

The Employment Nondiscrimination Act would not apply to religious organizations or the armed forces. An amendment to the bill says it would not redefine marriage.

"There are people who are your fellow citizens who are being discriminated against," said an impassioned Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., who is openly gay. "Please don't turn your back on them.

During floor debate, Rep. John Kline, R-Minn., said the White House indicated it had a number of concerns, both philosophical and legal, and signaled President George Bush would veto the bill should it reach his desk.

Even after several mark-ups in committee, the bill "remains fatally flawed," Kline said.