News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, (January 4, 2011)

Contact:

Brian Winfield, Communications Director, (727) 488-7799

Senator Nan Rich Files Jobs-creating Non-discrimination Bill

Equality Florida works with major employers to build bipartisan support

(TALLAHASSEE) Today, Senator Nan Rich filed legislation aimed at bringing jobs to Florida. The Competitive Workforce Act (SB 346), would eliminate discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations.

Businesses recognize that diversity brings the skills, perspective and other assets that are essential to establishing a competitive workforce. Major employers in Florida have adopted comprehensive non-discrimination policies and are working closely with Equality Florida to encourage others to do the same. These companies include: BlueCross BlueShield of Florida; Pepsico, Sweetbay Supermarket; Carlton Fields; jetBlue Airways; Citi and Wells Fargo / Wachovia.

"Creating jobs and getting our economy going means making Florida competitive. Passage of this bill will attract new businesses and help us draw the best and brightest to our state," said Mallory Wells, Public Policy Director for Equality Florida, "These basic protections already cover more than half of Florida's population through local policies and have the support of nearly 90% of the public. It is time to ensure full equality exists statewide."

Most recently, Leon and Orange counties have adopted similar protections. To learn more about Equality Florida's work, please visit http://www.equalitymeansbusiness.org/ .

Equality Florida is the largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

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