South Carolina City Adopts Non-discrimination Ordinance

[William769]

The city council of Folly Beach voted unanimously Tuesday to pass a non-discrimination ordinance with protections based on sexual orientation, becoming the fourth governing body in South Carolina with such a measure.

According to the Post and Courier, the ordinance makes it illegal to discriminate in public accommodations based on sexual orientation, race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, familial status, and disability. Similar ordinances in Charleston, Columbia and Richland County extend to public accommodations and housing. Violators of the ordinance for Folly Beach, an island community near Charleston, can face a $500 fine or 30 days in jail.

A news release from South Carolina Equality said the ordinance resulted from a request their organization and the Alliance For Full Acceptance delivered to city leaders last May. Retiring council member Charlie McCarty, 78, sponsored the legislation as one of his last acts in office.

The ordinance marks another local breakthrough for South Carolina, which lacks statewide protections for LGBT residents. South Carolina Equality said in the statement that it plans to get ordinances passed in four other municipalities in the near future.

http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2012/03/15/South_Carolina_City_Adopts_Non_discrimination_Policy/

[HillWilliam]

1. Woh. Dayum.

If it can happen in SC, it can happen anywhere. Good on 'em!

K/R

[William769]

2. When I read the article my jaw dropped.

The Last time I was in Myrtle Beach what you did behind closed doors, you had better ne sure the door was locked, the blinds drawn & the music blaring! And that was just in the 90's.