Georgia vetoes anti-LGBT legislation opposed by companies

Governor Nathan Deal has vetoed the US state of Georgia’s HB 757 bill, that would have enabled business to deny services to LGBT people. A significant number of firms in the entertainment and technology fields were vocal in opposing the bill. Companies such as Coca-Cola and Home Depot, and other businesses based in the state, also condemned the proposed legislation. The National Football League stated that the bill might prevent Atlanta from hosting the Super Bowl in the future. Governor Deal has denied that such pressure influenced his decision.

Governor Nathan Deal is vetoing Georgia's controversial HB 757, a bill that would've allowed businesses to deny services to LGBT people as a means of preserving religious freedom. Deal's veto is arriving less than a week after a large group of entertainment and technology companies spoke out against the bill, including a wide array of Hollywood executives, actors, directors, and producers. "I do not think we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia, of which I and my family have been a part of for all of our lives," said Deal. "Georgia is a welcoming state... I intend to do my part to keep it that way. For that reason, I will veto House Bill 757."

Entertainment industry representatives weren't the only people to vocally condemn the bill. Companies like Coca-Cola and Home Depot — both of which have major presence in the state — spoke out against the bill, and others that do business there threatened to reconsider their position in Georgia if the bill was made law. The NFL said the bill could jeopardize Atlanta's status as a potential Super Bowl host in the future if it was made office, and the NCAA made a similar promise regarding its various championship games.

"I do not respond well to insults or threats"