FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                          AG
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1996                      (202) 616-2777
                                               TDD (202) 514-1888


      STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL JANET RENO REGARDING THE 
      SENATE'S VOTE ON THE EMPLOYMENT NON-DISCRIMINATION ACT

     Yesterday, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would
make it illegal to discriminate in the workplace on the basis of
sexual orientation, was defeated by one vote in the Senate -- 50 to
49.  The closeness of the vote sends a clear message that support
is growing to protect all Americans from unfair discrimination in
employment.

     Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in the
workplace is simply wrong.  That is why the Justice Department will
continue to strongly support the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. 
We look forward to working with members of Congress in both parties
as they continue to address this important civil rights issue.   
                               ###
96-441