    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book II)]
    [October 19, 1995]
    [Pages 1632-1633]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Senator Edward M. Kennedy on Proposed Employment Non-
    Discrimination Legislation
    October 19, 1995

    Dear Ted:
        I am writing in regard to the Employment Non-Discrimination Act,
    which you and Senator Jeffords have reintroduced in the current session
    of Congress.
        As you know, discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual
    orientation is currently legal in 41 states. Men and women in those
    states may be fired from their jobs solely because of their sexual
    orientation, even when it has no bearing on their job performance. Those
    who face this kind of job discrimination have no legal recourse, in
    either our state or federal courts. This is wrong.
        Individuals should not be denied a job on the basis of something
    that has no relationship to their ability to perform their work. Sadly,
    as the Labor and Human Resources Committee documented last year, this
    kind of job discrimination is not rare. Cases of job discrimination on
    the basis of sexual orientation are seen in every area of our country.
        The Employment Non-Discrimination Act, however, is careful to apply
    some exemptions in certain areas. I understand that your bill provides
    an exemption for small businesses, the Armed Forces, and religious
    organizations, including schools and other educational institutions that
    are substantially controlled or supported by religious organizations.
    This provision, which I believe is essential, respects the deeply held
    religious beliefs of many Americans.
        Moreover, your bill specifically prohibits preferential treatment on
    the basis of sexual orientation, including quotas. It also does not
    require employers to provide special benefits.
        The bill, therefore, appears to answer all the legitimate objections
    previously raised against it, while ensuring that Americans, regardless
    of their sexual orientation, can find and keep their jobs based on their
    ability and the quality of

    [[Page 1633]]

    their work. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act is designed to protect
    the rights of all Americans to participate in the job market without
    fear of unfair discrimination. I support it.
            Sincerely,

                                                                Bill Clinton