On Wednesday, Representative Barney Frank (D) stated that he anticipates the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) will be introduced into the House within a matter of days. But will this important act be passed by the House? Frank remains skeptical while others remain hopeful.
ENDA prohibits job bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the majority of private and public work environments. Frank stresses the significance of this legislation because it educates the public and members of Congress on these issues, specifically on the transgender protections within the bill.
The problem with the passage of ENDA lies within the control of the Republicans of the U.S. House. According to sources, it will be difficult to pass any pro-LGBT legislation while Republicans are in control of the legislative agenda. While Democrats maintain control of the Senate, the bill may not be put up for a vote in the Republican controlled House.
Frank is known for being the longest-serving, openly gay member of Congress. While Frank does not have an estimate of the number of co-sponsors for this specific legislation, he remains skeptical ENDA will pass in both the Senate and House.
