WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Family Research Council (FRC) commended House Speaker John Boehner today after he announced his opposition to the so-called "Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013" (ENDA), S. 815, a bill that mandates special rights based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Speaker's spokesman was quoted saying "the Speaker believes this legislation will increase frivolous litigation and cost American jobs, especially small business jobs." Businesses would be forced to comply (or face penalties), regardless of the impact on their organizations.

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Family Research Council Action (FRC Action) will score the legislation in its annual vote scorecard.

FRC President Tony Perkins released the following statement:

"We commend Speaker Boehner for opposing ENDA because of the costly lawsuits that burden businesses in an already struggling economy.

"The law creates a new federal mandate on businesses based on sexuality and does not allow businesses the choice of taking those things into consideration when they think it is appropriate. For examples, businesses, including daycares and public schools, will be ordered to comply (or face penalties), regardless of the impact on their organization.

"ENDA not only adds more costs to businesses but tells them how they can and cannot practice the faith of their owners and managers. Under ENDA, employers can be held liable for workplace environment complaints, which will make them inclined to silence employees who express a religious belief or opinion that isn't deemed as accommodating to perceived or changing gender identity. ENDA encourages discrimination against anyone with a different moral viewpoint.

"We urge the U.S. Senate to reject ENDA because it threatens the free market, undermines employers' rights, and violates the free exercise of religion," concluded Perkins.

Download Family Research Council's new publication, "The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA): A Threat to Free Markets and Freedom of Conscience and Religion."

SOURCE Family Research Council

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