Antidiscrimination bill passes California legislature

A California bill preventing antigay discrimination in state-operated or state-funded programs has passed the legislature and now moves to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk for him to sign or veto. The bill, authored by out state senator Sheila Kuehl, would protect state residents utilizing such public services as police and fire protection, financial aid, and food stamps from being discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. "I am very pleased that my colleagues passed this measure and supported the principle that everyone should have equal access to the programs and services provided by our government," said Kuehl in a statement. "With Governor Schwarzenegger's signature, this bill will close an important gap in California's nondiscrimination laws." Added Geoff Kors, executive director of the statewide gay rights group Equality California: "Once again California is leading the way in providing the most comprehensive nondiscrimination protections in the country." (The Advocate)