One gutsy senator makes a difference

ONE person, or in this case, one lawmaker, can make a powerful difference. Republican state Sen. Bill Finkbeiner announced this week he will change course and vote for gay-rights legislation that has languished in Olympia for 30 years.

His bold decision is about fairness, equality and representing voters in a sophisticated suburban district. His vote all but assures passage of common-sense civil-rights legislation. It is too early to count the chickens until all votes are hatched, but Finkbeiner is commended for having the guts to re-evaluate his position.

As Senate Republican leader, the senator stuck with the GOP and voted against the bill last year, leading to its one-vote defeat in the Senate. Gay-rights legislation consistently passes the state House only to stumble in the Senate.

Finkbeiner, who recently stepped down as Republican Senate minority leader, says he has had several conversations that led to greater understanding of the discrimination gays and lesbians experience. His willingness to reassess his position and challenge himself to re-think his stance is noble and praiseworthy.

The legislation adds "sexual orientation" to state law that already bans discrimination in housing, employment and insurance based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, marital status and other factors.

This hurts whom, how? It's a positive step to give gays and lesbians necessary legal protection.

Finkbeiner had voted twice for gay-rights legislation when he was a Democrat in the House, so this position is perhaps more consistent than his vote last year.

Finkbeiner represents Redmond, Kirkland and rural parts of King County where tolerance is valued. The vote is not over. Other lawmakers could shift positions.

For now, kudos to Finkbeiner for a gutsy stand and for what could be a giant step forward for fairness in our state.