Fridae

Vermont voters backed an equal protection amendment on 3 November that names sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression in the state constitution. Local broadcaster WCAX called the vote for Proposal 4. The state’s election results page still labels its returns unofficial.

The amendment adds an article on equality of rights. It bars the state from denying equal treatment on nine grounds, including race, religion and disability as well as sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. It also preserves room for measures that improve treatment and opportunity for groups that have historically faced discrimination.

Vermont’s legislature set out the text that went to voters, and the secretary of state lists the returns and publishes the official results after certification.