By Marianna Levyash- Talk Radio News Service The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Thursday re-introduced the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, a bill aimed at ensuring employment opportunity for all Americans and banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. According to Committee Chairman Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), about 20 states have already enacted laws banning discrimination on sexual orientation, some of which include gender identity. “Qualified workers should not be turned away or have to fear losing their livelihood for reasons that have nothing to do with their capabilities, skills or performance. Such practices are un-American and it is time for them to stop,” Harkin stated. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Al Franken (D-Minn.) also showed their support for the legislation. “We are on the path for a struggle ... to have full equality under the law.” said Merkley. Harkin said he hopes the bill will be signed by President Barack Obama by 2010.