Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday signed a controversial religious liberty measure that critics argue would allow discrimination against the state's LGBTQ community.
The so-called "Save Chick-fil-A" bill prevents local governments from taking "adverse actions" against a business or person due to their religious beliefs or moral convictions, including those regarding marriage. Senate Bill 1978 came in response to efforts by the San Antonio City Council to block Chick-fil-A from opening up a location at the city's airport over the Georgia-based chain's "legacy of anti-LGBTQ behavior."
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Recently, Chick-fil-A has come under fire for its charitable donations to organizations that oppose same-sex marriage.
Rep. Matt Krause, R-Fort Worth, who sponsored the bill, said the legislation protects the rights of religious Texans, according to Dallas News. But Dallas Rep. Jessica Gonzalez, a Democrat and lesbian, said the measure reminds "those of us who have never belonged not to get too comfortable."
The franchise also received similar backlash back in March after hospitality company Delaware North and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority canceled plans to include a location at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
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"Recent coverage about Chick-fil-A continues to drive an inaccurate narrative about our brand," the chain said in response to criticism. "We do not have a political or social agenda or discriminate against any group. More than 145,000 people from different backgrounds and beliefs represent the Chick-fil-A brand. We embrace all people, regardless of religion, race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity."
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