The Equality Act, which would increase protections from discrimination against LGBTQ people, passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a slight majority in May 2019. Eight Republicans joined 228 Democrats in supporting the bill.
The law was not taken up in the Senate, despite support for a vote from a group of senators including Maine Republican Susan Collins. Proponents of the act continue to support the bill, citing research finding bipartisan support for measures such as the Equality Act among 70% of Americans. Opponents argue it could infringe religious freedom.
A January 2021 executive order by President Biden promises expanded, but reversible, protections through implementation of a 2020 Supreme Court ruling barring workplace discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.