(May 2, 2019 – Austin, TX) The Texas LGBT Chambers of Commerce coalition wants to recognize and thank the members of the House State Affairs Committee, and Chairman Dade Phelan, for adding important non-discrimination ordinance language in SB 2486. It is our hope the House and Senate will pass this bill in its present form.

We urge the legislature to include similar language in SB 2485, SB 2487 and SB 2488, to assure all Texans are afforded equal treatment.

We stand shoulder to shoulder with our 1,000+ business members and other business organizations from around the state in calling for these bills to be amended to make clear the proposed legislation will not overturn existing non-discrimination ordinances. Treating all Texans fairly is essential to maintaining Texas’ strong brand as the premier home for talented workers, growing businesses, entrepreneurial innovation, and a thriving travel and tourism industry.

For Texas businesses to compete for top talent, we must have workplaces and communities that are diverse and welcoming for all people.

Media Contacts: 

• Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce Tina Cannon, Executive Director 512-922-2511
• Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce Tammi Wallace, Board Chair 713-301-2266
• North Texas GLBT Chamber of Commerce Waylon Tate, Media Relations 214-613-0073
• San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce Renee Garvens, Board President 210-504-9429

About the Texas LGBT Chambers of Commerce: 

Texas LGBT Chambers is a coalition of the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce, North Texas GLBT Chamber of Commerce, and San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce. We work to achieve equality and inclusion by promoting economic vitality in our communities and strengthening LGBT and ally businesses. The 1,000+ LGBTQ and Allied businesses of the Chambers speak with one voice. We call upon our local elected representatives to introduce or support legislation that supports diversity in the workplace and opposes discrimination. We know, in Texas, when business thrives, people prosper. For this to happen, all Texans must be included and respected.