He has rescinded a 15-year policy of protecting homosexuals in his department from job discrimination.

Many cities have similar statutes intended to protect homosexuals from discrimination.

Over the last 20 years, seven states and more than 110 communities have passed laws protecting homosexuals from discrimination.

Democrats favor civil rights laws protecting homosexuals; Republicans are opposed.

"We're saying flat out: Don't even try to pass something to protect homosexuals."

The 15-member panel also said anti-discrimination laws should protect homosexuals.

Most western countries have laws that protect homosexuals from violence and discrimination.

He said it was not a concern to him nor to most members of the Republican caucus that the bill would protect homosexuals.

Sometimes a stigma hangs over efforts to protect homosexuals from repression or attack.