Hoyer Statement on Trump Administration’s Rollback of Protections for LGBT Americans

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the Trump Administration's guidance that allows employers to discriminate based on sexual orientation:

"I am appalled by the Trump Administration's decision to implement an unprecedented expansion of religious exemptions that can be used to discriminate on the basis of sexual identity.  The Justice Department could have taken no action, and LBGT people would continue to be protected and defended under our laws. Instead, Attorney General Sessions and President Trump decided proactively to allow individuals, companies and government agencies to discriminate against LGBT Americans – a group already facing significant discrimination as they struggle to have their lives, families, and equal dignity recognized in our society — so long as they claim their religious views compel them to do so.  Democrats will continue to stand up for the rights of the LGBT community in the fight for full equality."