So-Called "Pastor Protection" Passes Final Senate Committee

Senators Opposed Amendment Clarifying The Bill's Intent

Like many in the community, Equality Florida is reacting to recent news that Councilman Tommy Hazouri will move to withdraw his own human rights ordinance bill, 2016-002 at the City Council meeting this Thursday. This is a setback to be sure, but by no means a defeat. Councilman Hazouri has been a steadfast champion for equality, and we know that he remains committed to passing a fully-inclusive amendment to our human rights ordinance. He, along with Aaron Bowman and Jim Love, have been great leaders on this issue and show no signs of abandoning this work.

Written By: Gina Duncan, Transgender Inclusion Director

Statement on Today's SB 120 Hearing

Statement from Equality Florida CEO, Nadine Smith:

“Today five Senators killed a bill that would have provided basic protections for Floridians regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Florida Competitive Workforce Act Postponed

Senators defeat sweeping religious exemption amendment

(Tallahassee) - This afternoon the Senate Judiciary Committee discussed the Florida Competitive Workforce Act (SB 120), a bill that would add sexual orientation and gender identity to existing state nondiscrimination laws.

Mayor Lenny Curry has announced an Executive Order that prohibits discrimination in the City of Jacksonville based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression. The order will cover employment by the city and will require contractors to also have policies in place.