I’m reading the same diatribes in letters written by well-meaning citizens to the state’s newspapers, reciting biblical passages and declaring that no group should have special privileges that I read in 1974. This only underscores the need for LD 1196.

We should look at those “special privileges” just to jog a few memories. Most gay people pay a larger percentage of their incomes to the IRS as they have fewer dependents and they don’t mind doing it. That’s very special.

Their life partners can’t inherit their property without expensive legal maneuvering done well in advance and then it’s not a sure thing. Married couples have several options that include their spouses when planning to receive their retirement incomes. Most employers give a discounted rate for spouses’ and dependent health insurance.

Some employers subsidize child care expenses. The list could be quite long.

There isn’t much that is equal when comparing the “privileges” gay people and heterosexual people have. One thing that is equal, however, is that both heterosexuals and homosexuals could be fired from their jobs because of their sexual orientation. That is why all citizens should support LD 1196, an act that adds sexual orientation to the Maine Human Rights law.

William D. Skinner

Bangor