The Discrimination Train Keeps Chugging Along

Nevada lawmakers have passed two pro-equality bills: one outlawing job discrimination based on sexual orientation, and one establishing domestic partnership rights for same-sex couples. Both bills were sponsored by Senator David Parks, Nevada’s only openly gay legislator.

But all is not right in Nevada. Guess which one is creating drama.

Yup. Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons said he plans to veto the domestic partner legislation, citing several reasons for his decision. Gibbons' spokesman, Daniel Burns says:

“The governor believes that government has no business in your medicine chest or your bedroom. He also believes there are existing contracts that can be created, so no change to the law is needed. If there are people who want to be domestic partners, they can do so under existing laws. He is also mindful of the fact that voters of this state on two occasions have said that marriage is between a man and a woman, and it’s part of our Constitution.”

Well, let me ask a question. Why, if you're gay and living in Nevada, do you have to jump through hoops and run that extra mile, and ask Mother May I just to get the same thing available to every other resident of Nevada?

That sounds like discrimination to me, Governor.

And that ain't good.