Utah Senate gives speedy approval to LGBT-inclusive anti-discrimination bill

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah’s Republican controlled state Senate has given speedy approval to a landmark anti-discrimination bill that protects gay and transgender people from discrimination while also protecting religious rights.

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Members of the Senate voted 23-5 on Friday afternoon to give final approval to the Mormon church-backed bill, which was unveiled Wednesday. It now advances to the Utah House, where it would need approval before lawmakers adjourn at midnight on Thursday.

Republican Gov. Gary Herbert says he’ll sign it if it reaches his desk.

The bill bars discrimination against LGBT individuals in housing and employment, but exempts religious groups and protects the rights of religious people to voice their beliefs.