Anti-LGBT+ SB 197 is officially dead

By Jordan Redman
Staff Writer

SB 197, formerly known as the Oklahoma Right of Conscience Act, now called the Oklahoma Business Protection Act, failed to be brought to a vote. The session was adjourned a little before 5:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Behind the measure is Sen. Joseph Silk (R), who has a history of proposing anti-LGBT+ legislation.

The bill focused "customized goods" which is defined as an "item designed specifically for an individual or individuals and not otherwise available in the ordinary course of business."

SB 197 would have ensured that no one has to provide services or "customized goods" used in or to promote “a marriage ceremony or celebration of a specific lifestyle or behavior.”  Denials would have been immune to any civil claim or governmental penalty.

Silk has introduced similar legislation in the past. In 2015, he explicitly told the New York Times that he has “homosexual friends,” but “they don’t have a right to be served in every single store.”

He further explained to radio host Bryan Fischer that “LGBT activists do not want people to have freedom,” and that’s why they advocate against people being able “to exercise their religious convictions.”

Sage Mauldin, Human Rights Commissioner for the City of Norman and Adjunct Professor of Human Relations, said "Oklahomans have spoken. We do not tolerate prejudice or discrimination of any kind. We desire an Oklahoma in which everyone is welcomed, valued, and has a seat at the table. We respect each other’s differences and do not want to exclude anyone or make anyone feel less-than. Let’s continue to move Oklahoma toward a fairer, more egalitarian state."

Elysabeth Britt, who is is running against Republican Incumbent Representative Steve Russell in Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, said "SB 197 was a bill that if passed would have reflected poorly on Oklahoma's national presence and enabled a few to alienate our fellow Oklahomans. Now, more than ever, I believe the people of Oklahoma desire unity and to progress in a way that celebrates our differences. Also, we have more pressing issues at hand. Education, healthcare and our economy is where our focus needs to be. To find solutions to these issues, every member of every community needs to feel welcome to participate. We will always be stronger together."

Troy Stevenson, Executive Director of Freedom of Oklahoma, said "As we have seen in the past, our opposition can find ways to resurrect these hateful bills, but we have the votes to stop this one. Fair-minded Oklahomans won the day, and proved that the Oklahoma Standard is still very much real. We will stay vigilant under the Dome at 23rd and Lincoln, but today was a good day!"

The Gayly. March 15, 2018. 4:55 p.m. CST.