The Senate ended debate on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act in a 61-30 vote on Monday, taking a bold step toward LGBT equality.
Fifty-four Senate Democrats and seven Republicans voted in support of the measure, which would make it illegal to discriminate against someone in the workplace on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Supporters applauded the move, saying the protections were a necessary addition to federal law, which currently allows employers to fire LGBT employees over their sexuality. None of the bill's opponents -- all Republican -- gave an explanation for their opposition during debate. You can ask them for one now by contacting them on Facebook or Twitter using the handy tool below.
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A total of nine Senators missed the vote, including one Democrat, Missouri Sen. Claire McCaskill, who supports ENDA but was at a funeral on Monday, according to a spokesperson. The Senate is on course to pass the bill in a vote likely for Thursday, but the bill's fate in the GOP-controlled House looks much less certain.
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) had missed Monday's vote. She voted in favor of ENDA. McCaskill didn't vote on Monday.
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