New York, NY – Today, New York State Assembly Member Daniel O'Donnell sent a letter to Governor Hochul urging her to enact a ban on non-essential, state-funded travel to Tennessee. This comes in response to Tennessee’s recent passage of HB878, a new law that permits individuals in the state to refuse to solemnize or perform a marriage if it contradicts their beliefs, an act that has been widely criticized as an explicit attack on the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Assembly Member Daniel O’Donnell said, "Equality is not up for debate, and laws that discriminate against the LGBTQIA+ community are unacceptable. It's imperative that New York State stands firm against Tennessee's HB878, sending a resounding message that such blatant disregard for individuals' rights will not go unchallenged."

Assembly Member O'Donnell, the lead sponsor in the passage of marriage equality in New York, underscored that this proposed travel ban follows precedents set by New York State. The state has previously enacted similar non-essential state travel bans in response to anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation passed by North Carolina, Indiana, and Mississippi. As a pioneer and leading advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, New York must reaffirm its role as a beacon of progress, tolerance, and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. New York's potential travel ban serves as a warning to Tennessee and other states that any legislation undermining the rights of any individual or group is unacceptable. This action underlines the state's unwavering support for the LGBTQIA+ community and highlights that discrimination has consequences.

Read the full letter here.