Vote on equal rights ordinance delayed

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The Houston Equality ordinance that was slated to be voted on Wednesday was delayed for two weeks.

The reasons specifically why it was delayed was unclear, but what could happen, according to sources, is that an amendment crucial to the passage of this ordinance would be tagged.

Mayor Annise Parker and her supporters have the votes to pass the ordinance, but they may not have the votes to override the procedural motion.

The Houston Equality ordinance, Human Rights Ordinance of Supporters, would prohibit discrimination of any kind, with specific language prohibiting for transgender and gender identity.

"Gender identity is a term that is a problem," said Pastor Steve Riggle, an opponent to the ordinance. "It's problematic to use that term in its definition."

There is no city council meeting next week that is why it would be delayed for two weeks. City council is expected to vote on May 28.

"It's been 30 years we can wait 2 weeks, at the end of the day we do have mixed emotions about this," ordinance supporter Christina Gorczynski said. "We're ready for our transgendered brothers and sisters to be fully protected under the law."