News (USA)

Democrats work to undo Mississippi antigay law — but success is ‘not very likely’

Democrats work to undo Mississippi antigay law — but success is ‘not very likely’

JACKSON, Miss. — More than a dozen Democratic lawmakers are calling for repeal of an incoming Mississippi law that will let workers cite religious beliefs to deny services to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

A week after Republican Gov. Phil Bryant signed House Bill 1523, Democratic Rep. Jay Hughes of Oxford says Tuesday that he will try to undo the measure before it becomes law July 1.

Several states and cities have banned travel to Mississippi, saying the bill promotes discrimination.

Legislators are in the final two weeks of their session, and filing a new bill requires two-thirds approval of the House and Senate.

An effort would start in the House Rules Committee, and Republican Chairman Jason White says it’s “not very likely” his committee will consider Hughes’ request.

© 2016, Associated Press, All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Don't forget to share:

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

North Carolina: Deutsche Bank halts plans for 250 new jobs

Previous article

22-year-old gay Mormon activist commits suicide

Next article