LGBTQ+ RIGHTS
 

2026 marks fifteen years since the legalization of marriage equality in New York State, which Joe helped pass during his time as Majority Leader of the State Assembly. While we have made important progress, far too many people across the country still live with fear of prejudice and discrimination. That fear has only grown as the future of marriage equality has come under renewed scrutiny.

 

Throughout his time in public service, Joe has been on the front lines in the fight for equal rights. In Congress, he has continued that work by supporting legislation that protects and affirms the dignity, respect, and equality every person deserves.

 

In Congress, Joe has co-sponsored legislation including:

 

The Equality Act

Would provide clear, consistent federal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in areas including housing, education, employment, public accommodations, jury service, and federal funding.

 

The Do No Harm Act

Would update the Religious Freedom Restoration Act so it cannot be used to justify discrimination or cause harm to others.

 

The Equal Dignity for Married Taxpayers Act

Would modernize federal tax law to ensure fair and inclusive treatment of married LGBTQ+ couples.

 

The International Human Defense Act

Would require the State Department to address discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people globally, develop an international strategy, and promote LGBTQ+ human rights abroad.

 

The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act

Would prohibit conversion therapy by classifying commercial conversion therapy practices and related advertising that claim to change sexual orientation or gender identity as fraudulent.

 

The LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act

Would improve federal data collection by allowing voluntary and confidential reporting of sexual orientation and gender identity to better inform public policy and address disparities.

 

The Tyler Clementi Higher Education Anti-Harassment Act

Would require colleges and universities to adopt policies prohibiting harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or religion.