Suit challenges (Gov) Napolitano's anti-bias hiring edict

MESA - A Christian group has filed a petition with the Arizona Supreme Court arguing that Gov. Janet Napolitano overstepped her authority when she issued an executive order barring employment discrimination based on sexual orientation in some state agencies.
Rep. John Allen, R-Scottsdale, is one of three state legislators involved in the suit, which was filed by the Alliance Defense Fund.

"She is trying to circumvent the system for expedience and for political purpose . . . She's legislating through executive order," Allen said, referring to Napolitano.

Tim Nelson, Napolitano's general counsel, said the governor acted within her authority and will fight the lawsuit.

The petition, the equivalent of a civil suit, asks that the Supreme Court void the governor's order as unconstitutional.

http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/breaking/7_29_03sexorientation.html