Yesterday, New Hampshire Gov. Maggie Hassan issued an executive order banning discrimination in state government based on gender identity or gender expression.
The executive order says that all state agencies must review and revise their policies to reflect a non-discriminatory policy, that the Department of Justice and the Department of Administrative Service review state contract language to include protections, and that the Personnel Division provide guidance so state agencies will implement the executive order by September 15.
Gov. Hassan, who is currently running for Senate, writes in a press release:
“Throughout our history, it has been clear time and again that we always grow stronger when we work to ensure the full inclusion of all citizens in our democracy, our economy and our communities.”
While the state’s anti-discrimination policy previously protected employees from discrimination on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, race, color, marital status, physical or mental disability, religious creed, or national origin, Hassan’s order explicitly protects trans state employees:
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“By making clear that gender identity and gender expression are protected in the State’s anti-discrimination policies, this Executive Order helps ensure that New Hampshire state government welcomes and incorporates the talents and contributions of all of our citizens.”
Similar protections for transgender individuals are already in place in other U.S. states. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo expanded the state’s anti-discrimination law to include transgender individuals last year. Hassan writes:
“As we celebrate Pride Month, this Executive Order reinforces that New Hampshire is a welcoming state where everyone has the opportunity to share in our high quality of life and economic success.”
Thank @GovernorHassan for issuing executive order protecting #trans state employees! Add your name: https://t.co/1rNBoTrdDm @freedom4allusa
— Ed Butler (@EdoftheNotch) June 30, 2016
The executive order was praised by many including NH representative Ed Butler, who shared a link to a Freedom for All USA “Thank You” card.