Kansas city bans sexual orientation discrimination

? Roeland Park has become the second city in Kansas to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The city’s mayor on Monday night broke the council’s 4-4 tie. It was the second time the council had considered the anti-discrimination issue this summer.

Residents demanded a revote after a councilwoman was absent from the original vote in July. The law prohibits discrimination in employment, housing and public service.

Lawrence is the only other city in Kansas that includes sexual orientation and gender identity in its anti-discrimination ordinance. Kansas City, Mo., has a similar ordinance.

Opponents of the ordinance say they will petition the city to put the issue to a citywide vote in November.