NH Measure Would Bar Discrimination Against Gays

A House panel is holding a hearing on a proposed amendment to New Hampshire's constitution that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The measure passed the Senate unanimously and if three-fifths of the House agrees, it would go before voters in November. The constitution currently prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, color, sex and national origin. The amendment would add sexual orientation.

The state already prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation in statute, but supporters want to enshrine the protection in the constitution.

Opponents argue New Hampshire should not be the first state to single out gays to protect in the constitution.

The House Judiciary Committee hearing is Wednesday.