COLUMBUS, Ohio - Largely along party lines, the Ohio House has passed a gay rights bill that took years to make it to a floor vote.
The legislation barring employment and housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity was approved 56-39 on Tuesday, with all Democrats in attendance voting yes, along with five Republicans.
The bill's supporters called its protections a matter of fairness, while opponents said the measure is aimed at forcing people to accept a lifestyle that many have a problem with, on religious grounds.
The legislation now goes to the Ohio Senate. Senate President Bill Harris has said the bill is not necessary and would place a burden on businesses.
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