SLC Schools Could Ban Antigay Discrimination

The Salt Lake City School District could become the first in Utah to ban antigay discrimination, but its proposal is not likely to include protections for gender identity.

According to The Salt Lake Tribune, "On Tuesday, the school board weighed an amendment that would add sexual orientation to the list of characteristics, such as race and religion, that would be illegal to use to target someone for harassment. The board will consider the issue again Nov. 2."

The Tribune reported that Will Carlson, a gay candidate for school board, said that transgender protections also are needed, but his opponent, school board member Doug Nelson, supported the measure as it stands.

"Heather Bennett, board vice president, said it considered including gender identity, but it was dropped after advice from an attorney and research indicated sexual orientation is more commonly covered," reported the Tribune.

The measure is believed to be on track to win a four-vote majority in November.