Texas Businesses Say No to LGBT Discrimination by Lawmakers

Following the recent onslaught of proposed legislation targeting LGBT protections in Texas, several big businesses – among them, Dell Inc., Southwest Airlines Inc. and upwards of 100 more – have banded together under the common name Texas Competes, an initiative that has pledged to fight against sexual orientation discrimination in the state.

Tom Meredith, former CFO of Dell and board member of Texas Competes, echoed comments by Texas Association of Business CEO Bill Hammond and Houston Mayor Annise Parker regarding the economic future of the state if Texas lawmakers sign into law legislation discrimination against LGBT people.

“Texas is an economic powerhouse because it’s a place where talented people, entrepreneurs, and companies want to call home,” Meredith said, “but our competitiveness is in jeopardy if Texas does not become a place that is welcoming of LGBT workers and families.”

After the fiascos in Arkansas and Indiana regarding new discriminatory legislation, it is surprising that Texas now leads the nation in proposed anti-gay legislation – at the time of this writing, there are at least 20 bills introduced in session at the Texas House. According to the Texas Observer, that is likely the most in the history of any state.

We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves. If you believe that your sexual orientation has led to discrimination in your workplace, there are resources available to help you fight back. No person should have to face hostility in the workplace because of who they love. An employment law attorney can discuss the best course of action for you.

Atkerson Law – Dallas Employment Attorney

Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2015/04/15/texas-businesses-band-together-against-lgbt.html