Letters to the 107th Congress April 11, 2002 The Honorable Edward M. Kennedy Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions United States Senate Washington, DC 20515 Dear Mr. Chairman: The American Bar Association urges your support for S. 1284, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2001, introduced by Senator Ted Kennedy and cosponsored by forty-three other members of the Senate. In 1989, the American Bar Association strengthened its policy against employment discrimination by adopting specific policy urging federal, state and local governments to prohibit discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. With the adoption of this policy, the Association reaffirmed its commitment to the principle that employment decisions should be based on merit and individual achievements, not prejudices or presumptions. Discrimination should not be tolerated. When individuals are discriminated against, despite their ability to do the work required of them in the employment setting, the toll may be borne not only by them, but also by their families who depend on them and by the economy that loses productive individuals. That toll can be measured in lost productivity, reduced output and squandered potential. S. 1284 offers a solution that carefully balances the needs of employers with the rights of employees. While this bill would address discrimination based on sexual orientation in hiring, retention, pay and promotion, it exempts small businesses, as well as churches, parochial schools and other faith-based organizations from its coverage. The American Bar Association urges you to support the passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2001. Sincerely, Robert D. Evans Director, Governmental Affairs Office 107th Congress Letters Home

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