Gov. Malloy Bans State-Funded Travel to Indiana

Gov. Dannel Malloy has signed an executive order that bans state-funded travel to Indiana and other states that have laws that protect religious freedom, but don’t prohibit discrimination for classes of citizens.

“We cannot sit idly by and do nothing while laws are enacted that will turn back the clock. We need to keep moving forward and stand up against forces that seek to roll back progress. I’m sending a clear message with this executive order: Discrimination can’t and won’t be tolerated by the State of Connecticut,” Malloy said.

Indiana Republican leaders are looking for options to clarify the state’s religious freedom law that was recently signed into existence, according to the IndyStar. Legislators said they don’t believe the bill would allow for the type of discrimination against gay and lesbian people.

Many private companies, organizations and governments have criticized the passing of the law.

Seattle and San Francisco mayors also enacted similar policies that ban municipally-funded travel to the state.

Companies like Yelp and Salesforce have said they will reduce investment and expansion plans in the state because of the law.

Connecticut was one of the first states to pass an anti-discrimination law concerning sexual orientation and Malloy signed a law three years ago adding gender identity and expression to the statute.

“We need to do what we can to stand up and act against laws that allow – as a matter of public policy – individuals to be discriminated against. It’s unacceptable, and today, Connecticut has acted,” he said.

All agencies, boards, commissions, the University of connecticut and the Board of Regents must review all requests for state-funded travel. Travel will only be permitted if necessary to enforce state law, meet contractual obligations or to protect public health welfare and safety.