Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says he's against discrimination of all forms. However, he is backing this week's Arizona Supreme Court ruling allowing a Phoenix calligraphy company to refuse making wedding invitations for a gay couple.
The court, Ducey said, struck the proper balance between the rights of business owners and the rights of individuals to be free from discrimination. He also noted the court did not strike down the entire Phoenix ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation.
"The court was able to find a place where they could respect the First Amendment and religious freedom. And we'll continue to be a state, because it was so narrowly decided, that doesn't accept discrimination in these forums," he said.
A handful of other cities have similar anti-discrimination laws. But efforts to create statewide protection against discrimination for sexual orientation or gender identity have failed.
Ducey said he recognizes discrimination still exists against the LGBTQ community, but says he sees no reason to change the existing law.
