Arkansas Cities Pass LGBT Protections That Defy State's New Discrimination Law

[brooklynite]

Source: Governing

State lawmakers in Arkansas wanted to block local governments from passing ordinances that ban discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. So far, it hasn't worked out that way.

In February the legislature passed a bill, Act 137, to block cities from offering anti-discrimination protection to groups not covered under state law. Since then, however, several places have done just that.

"In the immediate aftermath of this law being passed by the legislature, we wanted to jump right out and make a clear, definitive statement," said Conway Mayor Tab Townsell.

New laws are also on the books in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Hot Springs. It's likely Pulaski County will consider a measure this week to block hiring discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. And voters in Eureka Springs will decide Tuesday whether to overturn a measure approved by the City Council in February.

Read more: http://www.governing.com/topics/politics/gov-arkansas-discrimination-gay.html

---

I can't imagine that the State won't be upheld by the Courts, but the lawsuits could be embarrassing...

[dbackjon]

1. Good for the cities

[christx30]

2. The GOP loves to chortle about

nullification of Federal law. Let's see how they react when it's not in their favor.

[Art_from_Ark]

3. Fayetteville had something similar on the books

until it was narrowly defeated in a special election last year. But Fayetteville city leaders have said that they will try again in the near future