Sexual Orientation Protection Debated in Jackson

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A measure banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is up for discussion for the first time in Jackson.

Mayor Sara Flitner proposed the law after a similar measure passed in May by lawmakers in Laramie, where police say University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard was targeted and beaten to death in 1998 because of his sexual orientation.

The Jackson ordinance is up for discussion Monday at City Hall in what Flitner says is the first step in a long process.

She said the measure could come up for a vote as early as August.