It's the middle of winter, but Florida Legislators every day are introducing new legislation that they hope will get bi-partisan support when the regular session begins in six weeks.
On Wednesday, two House Democrats introduced bills that would address fairness for the LGBT community.
Orlando area Representative Scott Randolph introduced The Competitive Workforce Act (H.B.361) which would prohibit all forms of discrimination in the workplace, including sexual orientation. In a statement, Randolph said:
“In a time of serious economic hardship, it is imperative that we do everything we can to encourage economic growth and investment,” Representative Scott Randolph said. “This bill promotes smart business practices that will attract employers to our state and create jobs. The Competitive Workforce Act seeks to move Florida forward.”
Also, State Representative Mark Pafford (D- West Palm Beach) has filed The Domestic Partnerships Act (HB 337), which would provide domestic partnership protections to committed couples throughout Florida. According to Pafford, "an estimated 5.5 million Floridians are living in domestic partnerships. "
This article appears in Jan 27 – Feb 2, 2011.