Add the Words Protesters Block Idaho Senate Chamber

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Gay-rights activists occupied the three entrances to the Idaho Senate chambers, vowing to stay until lawmakers pass a bill adding discrimination protections to the Idaho Human Rights Act.

More than three dozen protesters stood shoulder to shoulder just outside the chamber Monday morning.

They wore "Add the Words Idaho" t-shirts and covered their mouths with their hands.

Security was on the scene, mulling what to do.

Senate President Pro Tem Brent Hill, a Rexburg Republican, says he's told his members to remain outside the chambers until the protesters had vacated the entrances, to avoid a conflict.

They're due to convene on the Senate floor at 11 a.m.

For eight years, gay-rights activists have sought workplace and housing protections afforded other groups by Idaho law.

Idaho Republicans have blocked such measures.