Ohio House passes gay housing, job rights bill

COLUMBUS (AP) — 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 majority 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 Republican-controlled Ohio Senate. Senate President Bill Harris has said the bill is not necessary and would place a burden on businesses.