Idaho Lawmakers to Introduce ‘Add the Words’ Legislation

BOISE (AP/KTVB) -- Republican Idaho legislative leadership will consider introducing a bill that would add four words -sexual orientation and gender identity- to the Idaho Human Rights Act.

House Speaker Scott Bedke announced the hearing Wednesday, saying that the House Ways and Means Committee will meet at 5 p.m. to listen to the bill.

Gay rights advocates have been pushing for several years to hold a hearing on amending the Idaho Human Rights Act, which currently bans workplace and housing discrimination based on race, gender and religion.

Ways and Means Chairwoman Rep. Christy Perry says House Minority Leader John Rusche will present the bill.

Once the bill is introduced, Bedke says a full hearing will be scheduled the week of Jan. 26.