Protections still needed

A New York Times editorial brings to light some surprising facts. Some basic protections for gays and lesbians are still lacking from American federal law.

Gay men and lesbians still largely stand outside the [civil rights] division’s protection. If a hate crime law covering them is passed soon, as appears likely, the division should use it aggressively. Mr. Holder should also press Congress to pass the first federal law against job discrimination based on sexual orientation.

If you'd asked me to bet, all my money would have said that these federal laws were already in place.