House LGBT Equality Caucus Denounces HR 2802, the License to Discriminate Bill
1433 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515
Date: July 16, 2015 Contact: Roddy Flynn, (202) 257-8416
House LGBT Equality Caucus Denounces HR 2802, the License to Discriminate Bill
Washington, DC – The Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus today denounced HR 2802, which would permit businesses and non-profits to discriminate against LGBT families. The Equality Caucus issued the following statement in response to the introduction of HR 2802:
"This bill is a thinly veiled attempt to permit discrimination against LGBT families," Equality Caucus Executive Director Roddy Flynn said. "The bill attacks a problem that does not exist. Existing laws already protect clergy from being forced to perform same-sex weddings and a church's tax-exempt status if the church refuses to perform a same-sex wedding.
"HR 2802 gives a government blessing to businesses and non-profits to deny services to LGBT families. If the bill becomes law, even in states where LGBT couples are protected, employers would be able to refuse FMLA leave and deny survivor benefits for same-sex spouses. It would also allow hospitals to deny visitation rights to same sex couples and shelters that receive federal funding would be permitted to turn away LGBT families in need.
"The Equality Caucus calls on all Members of Congress to oppose HR 2802, and send the message that discrimination should not come with a governmental stamp of approval."
Please contact Roddy Flynn at 202.257.8416 (cell) or roddy.flynn@mail.house.gov with press inquiries.
The mission of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus is to promote lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality. The bi-partisan LGBT Equality Caucus is strongly committed to achieving the full enjoyment of human rights for LGBT people in the U.S. and around the world. By serving as a resource for Members of Congress, their staff, and the public on LGBT issues, the Caucus works toward the extension of equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and the improved health and wellbeing for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.