Tester statement on passage of non-discrimination bill

Senator co-sponsored measure, calls it ‘fundamental to our American values’

U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement after voting to approve the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. The bill passed with nearly two-thirds of the Senate in support:

“Ensuring that every American has the same workforce protections is fundamental to our American values. This common-sense bill levels the playing field so every worker has a fair chance to participate and succeed in our workforce.”

The Employment Non-Discrimination Act is designed to extend existing federal employment protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill also prohibits employers from hiring or firing someone based on the person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

Montana Senator Max Baucus also co-sponsored and supported the bill. It now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.