Dive Brief:
- Louisiana’s new governor, John Bel Edwards, late last week signed an executive order protecting state employees and employees of state contractors from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, political affiliation, disability, or age.
- The order also prohibits state agencies from discriminating on these bases in the provision of services, but it does recognize an exemption for churches and religious organizations.
- Edwards noted that there is currently no state law protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) Louisianans from employment discrimination, though the cities of New Orleans and Shreveport have passed ordinances doing so. The executive order nullifies an executive order that former governor Bobby Jindal signed in 2015, which did not provide protection on the basis of LGBT status.
Dive Insight:
After signing the order, Edwards said the state respects fellow citizens for their beliefs, but it will not tolerate discrimination based on disagreements. He added that while the executive order respects the religious beliefs of its people, it also signals to the rest of the country that discrimination is not a "Louisiana value, but rather, that Louisiana is a state that is respectful and inclusive of everyone around us.”
Michael Hecht, President and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., says the perception of Louisiana’s reputation has gone from "worst to first in recent years," and the action will help to solidify Louisiana's current reputation as a welcoming place for business and talent. Rev. Lindy Broderick, Executive Vice President, Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, says that the order was not only the right thing to do, but is good for business. Companies, cities, and states seeking to attract top talent and build a competitive workforce make it clear they do not discriminate.
Companies have another reason to ensure they are complying with discrimination laws: A highly active EEOC. EEOC workplace discrimination cases involving lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) employees rose 28% last year alone. Employees living in states without LGBT protects have essentially no choice but to appeal to the EEOC.