Edmondson joins in friend of court brief

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma has joined New York and eight other states in supporting a New Jersey court decision that ordered the Boy Scouts of America to reinstate a gay scout leader. <br><br>The

Thursday, April 13th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma has joined New York and eight other states in supporting a New Jersey court decision that ordered the Boy Scouts of America to reinstate a gay scout leader.

The states filed the friend of the court brief with the U.S. Supreme Court, rejecting the argument by Boy Scouts that its First Amendment rights allow it to choose with whom it can associate and who its leaders will be.

The brief argues that the court should not use the Boy Scouts case to undermine state laws aimed at eliminating discrimination.

"State anti-discrimination laws promote the vital state interest, thereby protecting not only citizens' privileges and rights, but the foundation of a free democratic society, its institutions, and the peace, safety and general welfare of the states and their inhabitants," the brief says.

New Jersey's law includes sexual orientation among the protected categories. Oklahoma's does not, but Edmondson said the case remains one of state's rights. The court is to hear oral arguments April 26.