DENVER-
Gay people would be protected from being fired based on their sexual orientation under a bill that’s on its way to Gov. Bill Ritter.
The measure (Senate Bill 25) was amended to allow small religious organizations to give hiring preference to people who support their religious values, if they receive federal funds and don’t make their decision based on sexual orientation.
It passed on a 22-12 vote.
Lawmakers have passed similar bills in the last two years but they were vetoed by former Gov. Bill Owens. Sponsor Sen. Jennifer Veiga, D-Denver, said such bills have been introduced periodically since 1975.
The bill adds sexual orientation as well as religion to the list of things employers aren’t allowed to consider when hiring, firing or making promotions. People who are discriminated against on those grounds would be able to file a lawsuit.
