Maryland Bans Discrimination Based on Gender Identity

Earlier this month, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed legislation expanding civil rights protections for transgender individuals. Joined by leaders of the Maryland House and Senate, O’Malley signed the Fairness for All Marylanders Act of 2014, which bans discrimination based on gender identity in public accommodations, employment, and housing.

The new law builds on the O’Malley-Brown administration’s long record of advocacy for equal protection under the law, according to a statement on the governor’s blog. In 2012, Maryland became the eighth state in the nation to enact marriage equality.

“Today, with the signing of the Fairness for All Marylanders Act, we’re taking a critical step forward in protecting all Marylanders from discrimination,” Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown said in a statement. “This is important legislation at a time when more than half of transgender residents in our state have reported harassment in their community. I’d like to thank and congratulate all of the lawmakers, advocates, and community leaders who made this legislation possible, and fought to ensure that all Marylanders are treated and protected equally under the law.”

Source: Maryland Governor’s Office