HRC says they support the new New York State senator – see below.

Good morning,

There has been some discussion about the record of Kirsten Gillibrand, New York Governor David Paterson’s pick to replace Hillary Clinton, regarding her stance on Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and additional LGBT issues.  In particular, we’d like to clarify references to the Human Rights Campaign Scorecard for the 110th Congress.  Although Kirsten Gillibrand did not co-sponsor legislation to repeal DADT, non-cosponsorship does not mean support for the policy or opposition to repeal.  In fact, in conversations with her office the Human Rights Campaign has confirmed Gillibrand is in favor of repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and supports full marriage equality for gay and lesbian couples.

Additionally, HRC confirmed with Gillibran’s staff additional points regarding her LGBT record:

·         Supports marriage equality

·         Cosponsored and voted in favor of the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act

·         Cosponsored inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and supports enactment of inclusive bill

·         Voted in favor of ENDA

·         Supports repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell

·         Supports repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act

·         Supports equal tax treatment of employer provided domestic partnership benefits

·         Voted against allowing discrimination in hiring for the Head Start program

·         Voted in favor of allowing Washington, DC to fund needle exchange programs with local funds

·         Supports the Early Treatment of HIV/AIDS Act (ETHA) to allow states to provide Medicaid coverage for HIV-positive persons

·         Voted against procedural attempts to derail ENDA and hate crimes

·         Endorsed by HRC PAC in 2008