Statement on Non-Binding Option Regarding Gender-Affirming Healthcare

“This action is not only an attack on transgender youth and families, but it undermines the business community in Texas.” 

HOUSTON, TX (March 4, 2022) – The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce stands adamantly opposed to the Governor and Attorney General’s attacks on transgender youth and families.  This directive by Governor Abbot would criminalize best practice medical care that is widely recognized by leading medical associations across the country.

“This action is not only an attack on transgender youth and families, but it undermines the business community in Texas, said Tammi Wallace, Chamber Co-Founder, President & CEO. “In a state that purports to tout business first, it’s ironic that the actions of the Governor and the Attorney General are in direct conflict with promoting a pro-business environment. Businesses actively use LGBTQ+ policies as an indicator as to if the state is truly ‘open and welcoming’ and an inclusive place for their employees to live and work. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and repeated attacks on the LGBTQ+ community are a deterrent to bringing businesses to Texas and attracting the best and brightest talent as well.”

This directive harms children and families directly and indirectly from their physical health to mental health. Putting transgender youth at risk for political gain is deplorable at every level.  We call on Governor Abbot to rescind this attack on children and families and to stop using attacks on the LGBTQ+ community to undermine the business community in Texas.

The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce, as part of the Texas LGBTQ Chambers of Commerce coalition, signed onto a letter published in the Dallas Morning News on March 11, 2022.  The letter was signed by more than 50 businesses and advocacy organizations and calls on the Governor to abandon anti-LGBTQ+ efforts. Read the full letter here.

About the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce accelerates economic opportunity for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer + (LGBTQ+) business community through a strong network of business allies, innovative programs, strategic partnerships and advance policies that foster economic inclusion and equality.  Learn more at www.houstonlgbtchamber.com.

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