Governor Gregoire Urges Passage of Civil Rights Legislation

For Immediate Release: January 9, 2006

Governor Chris Gregoire today urged the Legislature to move swiftly to pass Civil Rights legislation that will add sexual orientation to the state law against discrimination. Senator Bill Finkbeiner also issued a statement today assuring his support of the bill.

Governor Gregoire: �I commend Senator Finkbeiner for his support of the Civil Rights bill. He recognizes the need to drive discriminatory practices out of Washington.

�As I travel around the state and world, business leaders and working families understand the need for a diverse workforce. In fact, many Washington businesses already have anti-discrimination policies in place, helping them to attract the most talented employees.

�The Civil Rights bill is � and has been � one of my top priorities. I will introduce the bill tomorrow and expect to see the it move quickly through the legislature.

�A dear friend of mine has told me that she would like to still be young enough to work when the state finally tells her she will be treated equally at work. After an arduous 30-year effort, I am thrilled to know that I will be able to look my friend in the eye and tell her that her dream has become a reality.�

State law already prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, families with children, sex, marital status, age or disability, in employment, credit and insurance transactions, housing and real estate.

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