No headline

We have recently seen outrage over discrimination against LGBT people in North Carolina and Mississippi. Georgia ducked the problem when their governor vetoed an anti-LGBT bill.

But the outrage is not just demonstrative, It’s tangible. Businesses are making decisions that reduce their connection and commerce with these states. For example, PayPal decided not to establish a branch in North Carolina, taking with it 400 jobs. There are also real threats for the loss of federal funding for schools, highways and housing. Arizona caved in 2014 when threatened with the loss of a Super Bowl.

If you look at a map showing the location of states with anti-LGBT laws, Idaho stands out as a beacon of discrimination in the Northwest. For the past two legislative sessions this issue has been before the Legislature. But between internecine battles among Republicans and a busy schedule of tax cuts, gun rights, anti-Sharia and Bible legislation, our solons have been too busy to be bothered.

Maybe when a coveted business opportunity or critical federal funds evaporate in response to our discriminatory policies, our leaders will wake up. Why does principle have to take a backseat to Mammon?

BOB WYNHAUSEN

Sandpoint