Dell urges Texas lawmakers to stop anti-gay marriage bill

Austin, Texas (AP) Dell Inc. has joined opposition to a Texas bill that would attempt to defy the U.S. Supreme Court if gay marriage is legalized.

The computer maker released a statement Wednesday saying it has let Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott know that the Round Rock-based company considers diversity a "business imperative."

Texas business groups have urged lawmakers for months to not pursue Indiana-style laws that gay rights activists say discriminate. But Dell becomes the most visible company to voice public opposition.

Nearly every Republican in the Texas House is sponsoring a bill that would prohibit state and local officials from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The proposal must pass the House by midnight Thursday to advance.

Dozens of other bills are in front of the measure with the deadline looming.

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The Gayly – May 14, 2015 @ 1:45pm.