GRAPHIC: LGBT Workplace Equality Across The United States

The map of where state law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is shown in the above graphic provided by Lambda Legal.

All government employees are protected by the U.S. Constitution against irrational discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. In addition, some measure of protection already exists under Title VII based on gender, which has been held to include gender identity and expression. The U.s. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and several courts have interpreted Title VII to protect transgender employees, and the EEOC has interpreted Title VII to cover sexual orientation discrimination. The Supreme Court has held that the EEOC's interpretation of Title VII are entitled to "great deference."

Maryland will be joining the states that have gender identity discrimination in a few days when Governor Martin O'Malley signs SB 212 into law. The measure passed the Maryland legislature last week and waits the Governor's signature.

Hat/tip to Joe.My.God