Georgia Governor Nathan Deal (R) has vetoed HB 757. The “Free Exercise Protection Act,” which originally passed in the State House and Senate on March 16, is a Georgia state bill that would have legalized discrimination against same-sex couples in the name of protecting religious freedom. Despite a huge win for the LGBT community, Governor Deal’s decision comes as no surprise, as he stated previously that he would reject any legislation that “allows discrimination in our state in order to protect people of faith.” Deal reiterated that message in his remarks today, regarding his veto on HB 757.
A letter was sent by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), urging the Governor Deal to veto this law. As an association, we believe in building strength and promoting diversity in a profession that represents a wide spectrum of people and cultures, regardless the circumstance. As such, NAfME is pleased with the Governor’s veto, which protects the equity of not only music educators and music students, but for all Georgians.
Ronny Lau, Legislative Policy Advisor, Center for Advocacy, Policy, and Constituency Engagement, March 29, 2016. © National Association for Music Education (NAfME.org)
