Senate Passage of Employment Non-Discrimination Act Good News for Small Businesses, Workers

The Senate̢??‰?s passage today of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 is good news for small business owners, their workers and the economy. Small employers support policies that maximize their ability to attract and retain quality workers and help them grow their businesses. This legislation would do just that by leveling the playing field for small employers and workers and eliminating inefficiencies and costs that cut into profits and undermine small businesses̢??‰? bottom lines.

According to scientific polling released by Small Business Majority, small business owners believe there should be federal and state laws to prohibit employment discrimination against gay and transgender people, and that employers should not be able to fire or refuse to hire someone who is gay, lesbian or transgender based on the employer̢??‰?s religious beliefs. In fact, more than eight in 10 thought such laws already existed. What̢??‰?s more, six in 10 believe laws that protect against discrimination can improve their bottom line and that these kinds of laws help employers attract the best and brightest employees, regardless of whether an employee is gay or transgender.

Implementing non-discrimination laws that allow employers to treat all people equally regardless of sexual orientation will help small businesses retain more quality employees and free them from extra administrative burdens. We urge the House to build upon today̢??‰?s Senate vote by passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013. It̢??‰?s the smart and right thing to do for small businesses, their employees and our country.