BISMARCK, N.D. - The North Dakota House has rejected a measure that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.
The bill was defeated 69-22 on Friday.
North Dakota lawmakers have defeated similar legislation three other times in past years.
Fargo Democrat Josh Boschee is the state's first openly gay legislator and is the main sponsor of the legislation. Boschee and others say that many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people fear they could lose their jobs or residences under current state law.
Opponents have argued that it's unnecessary, and could force businesses and religious organizations to go against their own convictions.
