ENDA

New workplace bill that will outlaw workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation:

The workplace bill — titled the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, or ENDA — is the subject of behind-the-scenes negotiations. The bill that emerges is expected to expand on earlier versions to cover not only sexual orientation but also gender identity, thus extending protections to transgender employees. Churches and small businesses would be exempt.

For many Americans, ENDA's provisions would be familiar. More than 85 percent of the Fortune 500 companies include sexual orientation in their non-discrimination policies, as do 17 states and many local governments.