Chick-fil-a bill in Texas legislature 'Bathroom Bill 2.0' or something more - What's Your Point?

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - This week’s panel: Jacquie Baly – UH Downtown Political Science Professor, Mike Collier- former Democratic Lt. Governor candidate, Ben Streusand – conservative commentator, “Three Amigos”, KSEV Radio, Laura Moser – former Democratic congressional candidate, Ben Ferguson – Radio host and conservative commentator, Antonio Diaz- writer, educator and radio host, , join Geg Groogan in a discussion about religious freedom and discrimination.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) -  May 25, 2019   The Federal Aviation Administration says it's investigating a decision to exclude Chick-fil-A from an airport concession contract in San Antonio over opposition to the fast-food chain owners' record on LGBT issues.

The San Antonio Express-News reports the FAA told San Antonio officials Friday it's investigating complaints the city-owned airport discriminated "against a private company due to the expression of the owner's religious beliefs."

City Attorney Andy Segovia said his office is reviewing the FAA's notice.

The Atlanta-based restaurant chain has faced opposition elsewhere over donating millions over the years to groups that oppose same-sex marriage.

Texas lawmakers this month approved a bill that would prohibit cities from taking "adverse action" against an individual based on contributions to religious organizations.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has signaled he will sign the legislation.

AUSTIN (KDFW) May 21, 2019   Republicans in the Texas House passed what they call a religious freedom bill. Critics call it a hateful piece of legislation.

The bill has been nicknamed the "Save Chick-fil-A Bill." It was introduced after the city of San Antonio refused to allow one of the restaurants in its airport. The city cited the company’s support for anti-gay and lesbian organizations.

It’s expected to go to the governor soon and become a law. It bans cities and counties from discriminating against individuals or organizations based on their religious convictions.

The passage in the Texas House came after long and sometimes emotional debate.

“Members, this bill is here being debated on the floor today to make LGBTQ Texans feel less than, to make us feel attacked by our own government,” said State Rep. Erin Zwiener, a Democrat from Driftwood.

“I think it’s actually a non-discrimination bill... making sure the government does not discriminate against you on the basis of who you’re associated with, who you’re affiliated with,” said State Rep. Matt Krause, a Republican from Fort Worth.

The Senate version of the bill allowed the Texas attorney general to sue over violations of the law. The House version only allows private parties to file suit.

If the Senate goes along with that, the bill will go to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk to sign it into law.

Abbot left little doubt about his feelings on the legislation. He posted a message on Twitter asking, “What are the odds I’ll sign the Chick-fil-A bill? I’ll let you know after dinner.”

The post included a picture of a Chick-fil-A meal.