U.S. Senate Approves Gay Rights Bill

getty images

The Senate has approved a bill outlawing workplace discrimination against gay, bisexual and transgender Americans.

    The vote reflected the nation's rapidly evolving attitude toward gay rights nearly two decades after Congress rejected same-sex marriage. The final tally was 64-32.

    Despite the bipartisan vote, the measure's chances in the House are dim. Speaker John Boehner calls the shots, and he opposes the bill.

    Gay rights advocates hailed Senate passage as a major victory in a year of significant change.

    The Supreme Court in June affirmed gay marriage and granted federal benefits to legally married same-sex couples. Illinois is on the verge of becoming the 15th state to legalize gay marriage along with the District of Columbia.  (Associated Press)