WASHINGTON-- Congressman Carney today released the following statement after President Barack Obama signed an executive order to ban federal contractors from discriminating against employees on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in federal contracts:

“The President’s executive order is a welcome step forward in our country’s march toward equality. Discrimination has no place in America’s workplaces -- this executive order gives federal employees and contractors the protections they deserve.

“While I’m pleased that the President has taken this step, the House needs to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act so that all Americans are guaranteed these same protections. Delaware and several other states have already led the way in taking these steps. I’m hopeful that Congress will come together to ensure that Americans can no longer be fired because of who they are or who they love.”

Congressman Carney signed a bicameral letter in March urging the President to issue an order like the one issued today. The Congressman is a cosponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

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