Lambda Legal Issues FAQ for LGBT Community in Mississippi

(Jackson, April 6, 2016) — Today, Lambda Legal released a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) guide for the LGBT community in Mississippi after Governor Phil Bryant signed HB 1523, an anti-LGBT bill that invites a broad range of individuals, private businesses and medical and social services agencies to discriminate against anyone in Mississippi based on religious beliefs about marriage, non-marital sexual relationships, and conformity with gender stereotypes.

"This is uncharted territory, so it is likely that many people will have questions about what it all means for them. We want to make sure that the LGBT community in Mississippi knows the increased discrimination that this dangerous law invites but also that federal laws provide them important protections even as issues arise,” said Jennifer C. Pizer, Lambda Legal Senior Counsel and Director of the Law and Policy Project. "This law is likely to affect LGBT people in healthcare settings, publicly funded social services, education, business transactions, employment and housing – especially those who already are most vulnerable.  It’s critical that folks know how to navigate those issues.”

“Litigation on this issue could have widespread impact for many LGBT people and others across the state and should be considered with care.  If you are denied a service or protection to which you believe you are entitled, please contact our help desk for assistance,” Pizer added.

Topics in the FAQ include:

• Marriage
• Foster care and other child welfare services
• Education
• Healthcare
• Employment

For more information or for legal assistance, contact Lambda Legal’s Help Desk at 1-866-542-8336 or visit www.lambdalegal.org/help

Read the FAQ http://www.lambdalegal.org/ms-faq