Maine Gay Rights Bill Signed Into Law

A proud day for Maine! Now I feel better about booking my next vacation there.

(Augusta, Maine) Maine Governor John Baldacci signed a bill in law Thursday to protect gays, lesbians and the transgendered from discrimination, but a conservative group has vowed to force the issue to a referendum in the next election.

Calling it a “proud day for Maine.” Baldacci, who pushed for the legislation put his named to the document at a ceremony in his office.

Baldacci said that the new law not only “offers essential civil rights,” but also “serves as a welcome.”

It amends the Maine Human Rights Act by making discrimination in employment, housing, credit, public accommodations and education based on sexual orientation or gender identity illegal.

The measure passed its final test Wednesday night when the Senate agreed with the House to add a clause addressing concerns of opponents that the bill would be a gateway to gay marriages. Language was added to say that the human rights bill did not extend to the issue of marriage. (source)