LGBTA representatives requested support surrounding the current allegations against Penn State women's basketball coach Rene Portland from senators at last night's Undergraduate Student Government (USG) Senate meeting.

Members of the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender and allied (LGBTA) community, as well as USG President Galen Foulke, urged Senate to consider legislation involving discrimination at Penn State.

Foulke said this situation is a perfect example of what USG should be handling. The investigation involving former Lady Lion Jen Harris' claims that Portland discriminated against her based on sexual orientation clearly affects students, Foulke said.

"It's absolutely crucial that USG stand behind the student community," Foulke said.

The controversial topic roused many questions concerning exactly what legislation would entail.

Asking the Senate to pass judgment on facts that haven't been found yet is putting too much trust into the university's opinion, Alex Ibrahim, Senate vice president, said.

"I feel we should be a fact-finding body," he said.

Other concerns discussed at the meeting regarded name usage and language in any possible discrimination legislation.

Joshua Ream, town senator, suggested the legislation refer to the current case but should refrain from using names.

Others, such as Keith Crouse, East Halls and town senator, refuted that suggestion by referencing national government policies, such as those that resulted from the Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education.

"It takes specific cases to pass legislation; maybe we do have to single someone out," Crouse said.

Crouse also noted that USG has to represent the student body as accurately as possible, and he said there has been minimal evidence of support for Portland.

A.J. Fluehr, town senator, said the language used in a possible piece of legislation could heavily support one side more than the other.

The Senate as a whole agreed that the language used was of great importance and should be handled carefully.

Legislation has yet to be considered, but Foulke said he would be "disappointed" if the Senate chose not to take action on the issue.

James Ziegenfuss, LGBTA representative, also approached the Senate, requesting support if Portland was found guilty.

"It's an example of all the problems we're trying to fight," Ziegenfuss said.

Senate members decided to conduct more in-depth research on the subject and will vote on whether or not it is a consideration next week.

Other Senate discussions involved final details on the "Extend the Freeze to University Park" rally.

The rally will be held Nov. 9 from noon to 1:30 p.m. and is intended to be completely student-based.