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In a historic move, the Pennsylvania Legislature has passed an amendment to the state constitution that will explicitly include protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. The amendment, which passed with a majority vote in both the House and Senate, marks a significant step forward in ensuring equal rights and protections for all Pennsylvania residents.The amendment, known as Article XVII - Non-Discrimination, states that no person shall be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This groundbreaking change comes after years of advocacy from LGBTQ+ rights groups and supporters, who have pushed for greater legal protections for the community.Governor Sarah Davidson, who has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights throughout her tenure, is expected to sign the amendment into law in the coming days. In a statement following the passage of the amendment, Governor Davidson praised the Legislature for taking this important step towards ensuring equality for all Pennsylvanians."This amendment reflects our shared values of fairness and equality, and sends a clear message that discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals has no place in our state," Governor Davidson said. "I am proud to sign this amendment into law and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all Pennsylvanians."The passage of the amendment has been met with applause from LGBTQ+ rights organizations across the state. Sarah Thompson, the executive director of Equality Pennsylvania, hailed the amendment as a "historic moment" for the LGBTQ+ community."This amendment sends a powerful message that Pennsylvania values and protects all of its residents, regardless of who they are or who they love," Thompson said. "We are thrilled to see this long-overdue recognition of LGBTQ+ rights enshrined in our state constitution, and we will continue to advocate for full equality and inclusion for all LGBTQ+ individuals."The amendment will take effect immediately upon Governor Davidson's signature, making Pennsylvania one of the first states in the country to explicitly include LGBTQ+ protections in its constitution. Supporters hope that this landmark change will set a precedent for other states to follow suit in recognizing and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.