UPDATE: The Church has released a background explanation “to help members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and others understand the background and the decisions relating to the passage of bills in the 2015 Utah legislative session that bear on important principles of religious liberty and LGBT rights.” View it here.
As posted on Mormon Newsroom, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued the following statement today regarding the passage of Utah Senate Bill 296:
“We are pleased that the Utah Legislature has passed Senate Bill 296. It reflects the very best of collaboration and statesmanship from groups and individuals who may not always agree on all things, but who have passed landmark legislation that balances religious freedom and antidiscrimination. While other states may find a different solution, we hope this fair, balanced approach shows that fairness for all is possible. The Church applauds the efforts of the Utah Legislature and other members of the community for this historic accomplishment.”
According to MSNBC, “the measure will make it illegal for employers and landlords to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, except in cases involving religious organizations and their affiliates.”
This move comes after LDS leaders spoke out for religious freedom and understanding earlier this year, submitting the hope that opposing sides could work together to achieve “fairness for all.”
