Kalamazoo City Commissioners Vote To Ban Discrimination Based On Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity GRAND RAPIDS, MI (Michigan Radio) - Kalamazoo city commissioners have unanimously approved an expansion of the city's anti-discrimination laws. The expansion includes new protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

In 10 days, when the new rule takes effect, it will be illegal in the city of Kalamazoo to fire someone because they're gay.

There is an exception in the rule for faith-based institutions. People who oppose the rule change want more exceptions.

They're expected to launch a petition drive, which means the issue may ultimately be decided at the polls in November.

Kalamazoo city commissioner David Anderson says the action at city hall has created plenty of debate.

"I think it has really helped set the stage that if there is indeed a vote, there certainly will have been no lack of discussion on this whole issue," he says.

Anderson supports expanding the anti-discrimination rules because he says it shows that the city believes in treating people fairly and equally. © Copyright 2010, Michigan Radio