Measure to ban discrimination against LGBTQ community fails

OWENSBORO, Ky. (Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer) — An ordinance that would have banned discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation has failed in Daviess County on a 2-2 vote. The Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer reports the vote took place Thursday during a meeting held online due to COVID-19 restrictions. The ordinance would have barred discrimination in employment, public accommodations and housing. It contained a number of exceptions to protect the religious beliefs of business owners and landlords as well as general religious beliefs. Deanna Smith is the Owensboro Fairness Campaign chair and a candidate for city commission. She says the vote points to the need for LGBTQ representation in local government.