Economic Impact in North Carolina Already Felt

Economic Impact in North Carolina Already Felt

McCrory’s Anti-LGBT Law Threatens State’s Economy

After Gov. Pat McCrory signed a sweeping anti-LGBT law last week, the fears of North Carolina’s business community are playing out.

Yesterday, officials from High Point Market Authority announced that “hundreds and perhaps thousands” of customers are pulling out of North Carolina’s renowned High Point Market because of the discrimination caused by House Bill 2, impacting the state’s $5 billion furniture trade show.   

But while McCrory attempts to downplay the damage caused by his anti-LGBT law, North Carolina’s economy is already losing business:

High Point Market Authority: “In the last few days, dozens of customers have contacted the High Point Market Authority to inform us that they have cancelled plans to attend the Market in April due to passage of HB2. There are also several campaigns on social media calling for a boycott of the High Point Market this spring.” (3/28/16)

Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority has “had prospective conventions withdraw interest in Charlotte as a host destination as a result of recent legislation.” (3/29/16)

Asheville Citizen Times: Asheville, NC travel industry worries about HB2 impact (3/29/16)

Yahoo Sports: NBA threatens lost Charlotte All-Star Game over NC anti-LGBT law (3/24/16)

ESPN: ESPN, which is considering Charlotte as a new home for the Summer X Games, said in a statement that it is also monitoring the situation. “At ESPN, we embrace diversity and inclusion and will evaluate all of our options as we seek a new city for the X Games.” (3/24/16)

###