NASHVILLE, Tenn. (FOX13) – A new bill was recently introduced in the Tennessee State Legislature that, if passed, would allow people and businessesto refuse to provide goods and services to homosexuals.
It was filed by State Sen. Brian Kelsey, who represents Memphis and Germantown.
DOWNLOAD: Read Tennessee Senate Bill 2566
The bill notes that businesses can refuse services and goods only if it furthers a civil union, domestic partnership, or same-sex marriage. The person or business would just have to say it was against their religion. For example, if a same-sex couple wanted a cake for their wedding reception, a bakery could refuse to cater to them.
Jonathan Cole of the Tennessee Equality Project says the bill is making discrimination legal.
“It’s bad for business,” Cole said. “It’s bad for attracting talent that would be offered a job to come and work for a corporation here in Tennessee. When they see bills like this capturing the headlines, it really reflects poorly on the state.”
The TEP is handing out stickers to businesses that say “Equality Means Business”.
The bill was introduced in the House and Senate, but no votes have been taken yet.
Kelsey was unavailable for an interview with FOX13 News.
We want to know what you think: Does this promote discrimination?
Source: www.myfoxmemphis.com