Atlanta Falcons owner opposes Ga religious exemptions bill

Published March 18, 2016

ATLANTA (AP) Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank is opposing a bill approved by the Georgia Legislature that protects opponents of same-sex marriage, a measure that could impact Atlanta's bid to host the Super Bowl.

Blank's statement Friday makes him the latest business leader to express concern that the religious exemptions bill could lead to discrimination against gay, lesbian and transgender people. He says the bill ''would have long-lasting negative impact on our state.''

Meanwhile, the NFL says state law can be a factor for team owners determining Super Bowl locations. Atlanta is one of four finalists for either the 2019 or 2020 Super Bowl, competing against New Orleans, Miami and Tampa.

NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy says league policies prohibit discrimination on age, gender, race, religion or sexual orientation.

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