A bill prohibiting discrimination against elementary and high school students based on sexual orientation, identity or gender was approved in a preliminary Knesset vote on Wednesday. The legislation, proposed by MK Dov Khenin (Hadash), has government support and is meant to prevent social, verbal and physical harm to LGTB youth.

“We are taking an important step toward eliminating homophobia,” MK Khenin said. “Schools are where the next generation absorbs values, and education shapes their future actions.” The legislation passed its preliminary reading with 40 in favor and four opposed, and will be discussed in the Knesset Education, Culture and Sport Committee.