Both of Maine’s representatives voted with their fellow House Democrats in favor of the legislation. Sen. Susan Collins, who helped lead negotiations in the Senate, attended a ceremony after the vote with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
LGBTQ
Colorado LGBTQ club shooting suspect charged with 305 counts, including hate crimes
The suspect had been held on hate crime charges following the attack but prosecutors had said they weren’t sure whether those counts would stick because they needed to assess if there was adequate evidence to show it was a bias motivated crime.
Supreme Court justices split in clash of religion and gay rights
The Supreme Court is hearing the case of a Christian graphic artist who objects to designing wedding websites for gay couples.
LGBTQ students wrestle with tensions at Christian colleges
At some conservative schools, some students and faculty have filed discrimination complaints, while at more affirming institutions, some parents and clergy argue that approach doesn’t align with their mission.
Colorado shooting suspect changed name as teenager in Texas
Anderson Lee Aldrich, 22, who faces murder and hate crime charges, was known as Nicholas Brink until 2016.
Maine family sues U.S. military for denying transgender dependent’s health coverage
The daughter of a 23-year veteran has been denied coverage for medically necessary surgeries to address gender dysphoria, the lawsuit says.
Mothers, friends, performers among dead at Colorado gay club
The five people who were killed at a gay club in Colorado are being remembered as loving parents, enthusiastic performers and longtime patrons who cherished Club Q.
Mormon church voices support for same-sex marriage law
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints voiced its support for proposed federal legislation safeguarding same-sex marriages
Federal court says beauty pageant can bar trans contestants
The pageant has several requirements for contestants, including some based on contestants’ age, marital status and gender identity.
Transgender student at University of Maine System alleges discrimination
The student has filed a complaint with the state after gender-affirming surgery was denied coverage under a UMS student health insurance policy.