Lake Norman Chamber to host dueling views on HB2

The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce will host dueling views on House Bill 2 at its May Focus Friday program 8:30-10 a.m. May 20.

State Sen. Jeff Tarte, R-Cornelius, and State Rep. Tricia Cotham, D-Matthews, will offer the differing perspectives during “HB2: The Impact on North Carolina’s Commerce and our Reputation in a Global Economy.”

The program will be in the chamber’s second-floor conference room, 19900 W. Catawba Ave., Cornelius.

HB2 eliminated Charlotte’s ordinance that would have extended legal protections to LGBT individuals.

Chamber president Bill Russell said he is concerned about the bill’s overall economic impact on business.

“We have had members of our hospitality industry share their anxiety regarding the possible cancellation of conferences, events and corporate travel,” Russell said in announcing the program.

While most of the May 20 program will discuss HB2, the legislators will be asked to comment on other aspects of the Legislative Short Session. Issues include the state budget, teacher pay, public health and the Interstate 77 toll lanes, Russell said.

Intended for Lake Norman Chamber members, Focus Friday programs also are open to any local resident or business representative who RSVPs at 704-892-1922.

This story was originally published April 26, 2016 at 7:52 AM with the headline "Lake Norman Chamber to host dueling views on HB2."