Gov. Nathan Deal will veto the state’s newly-passed religious freedom bill.
During a press conference Monday morning, Deal announced his intention not to sign House Bill 757.
“House Bill 757 is about the character of our state and our people,” he said. “Georgia has always been a welcoming state and that I will do everything in my power to keep it that way. And for these reasons, I will veto HB 757.”
Deal said HB 757 appeared in many forms throughout the 40-day legislative session, and had it remained the “Pastor Protection Act” he would have signed it. But he said other versions of the bill had language that concerned him.
“I appreciate the efforts of the General Assembly,” he said. “But this bill may have language that could allow for discrimination.”
Deal said he was disappointed that “some have resorted to threats” concerning HB 757. “As most of you know I don’t take well to threats or insults.”
