Gov. Nathan Deal vetoes controversial “anti-gay” bill.
Gov. Nathan Deal had a lot a pressure over the weekend as Disney, Marvel, Warner Bros. and Netflix all threatened to boycott Georgia’s film industry. But, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Gov. Nathan Deal on Monday vetoed the controversial Religious Freedom bill, saying it “contains language that causes me concern.”
Related: Netflix Promises to Leave Georgia if “Anti-Gay” Bill Passes
“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 part of all of our lives,” Deal said. “…Georgia is a welcoming state. It is full of loving, kind and generous people. And that is what we should want.”
Related: 34 Actors, Filmmakers Will Boycott Georgia If “Anti-Gay” Bill Passes
The bill, which is called the Free Exercise Protection Act, says no faith-based organization “Shall be required to provide social, educational or charitable services that violate such faith-based organizations sincerely held religious belief.” In addition, organizations cannot be forced to “hire or retain as an employee any person whose religious beliefs or practices or lack of either are not in accord with the faith-based organizations sincerely held religious belief.”
Related: Warner Bros. Threatens Boycott Georgia If “Anti-Gay” Bill Passes
Georgia currently has the third-largest film industry in America. 800 movies and TV shows, 30,000-plus workers, and an economic impact of close to $5.1 billion in 2014. This will have a major impact on the Governor’s decision.
Related: Why Gov. Nathan Deal Will (Most Likely) Not Sign the “Anti-Gay” Bill
