Groups worry about discrimination against members

A new Indiana law that could allow businesses the ability to deny services to homosexuals has come under fire from ASAE and an association representing financial planners, both of which worry their members could be targets for discrimination.

Indiana lawmakers recently passed legislation they say protects the rights of businesses owners to operate according to their religious principles. Just what that means is unclear, but critics of the law point to language they say gives companies the ability to discriminate against gay people.

In a March 30 letter, ASAE CEO John Graham urged Indiana Gov. Michael Pence to amend the law to clarify that it does not allow discrimination against any segment of the population.

"ASAE stands strongly in support of diversity and inclusion practices within the association industry," Graham said. "Laws that permit discrimination are not only regressive, they put our members at risk of being denied service anywhere from restaurants to meeting and convention facilities, and send a harmful message that fairness, equality and the principles of our Constitution are secondary to personal prejudice."

Graham added that ASAE worries the law "could create an unwelcoming environment for some residents and visitors to the state." http://bit.ly/1ytMHH3

Also raising concerns is the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, scheduled to hold its fall conference in Indianapolis, according to industry news site Financial Planning. NAPFA CEO Geoff Brown and board chairman Bob Gerstemeier sent a letter to members saying that while the law was similar to religious freedom laws in other states, Indiana's version is "more egregious."

"We're monitoring the situation in Indiana pretty closely, and will consider a range of options," Brown told Financial Planning. "We want to affirm our commitment that every member should experience our conference without fear of discrimination."http://bit.ly/19rhQov