Board codifies travel ban, expands restrictions on contracting with states that pass anti‑LGBT laws

The Board of Supervisors unanimously passed on first reading an ordinance amending the administrative code to prohibit city‑funded travel to states that have enacted laws after June 26 that reverse anti‑discrimination protections for LGBT people, and to bar city contracting with companies headquartered in, or performing work in, such states.

Supervisor Scott Wiener, the item—s sponsor, described the measure as codifying and expanding the mayoral executive order that restricted city travel to certain states in response to recent legislation targeting LGBT rights. "This legislation will make San Francisco the first city in the country to ban city contracting and spending in states that adopt anti LGBT hate laws," Wiener said, and urged support to send a clear message of solidarity with LGBT residents.

Wiener said the ordinance includes carefully crafted exemptions consistent with other municipal travel bans nationwide and thanked advocates and city departments for their input. The board took the item by "same house, same call" and passed it unanimously on first reading.

The ordinance extends restrictions beyond travel to contracting and spending with entities in states that, according to the sponsor, permit discrimination or have rolled back protections after June 26. The text includes exemption language for narrowly defined circumstances; departments will need to implement procedures consistent with the ordinance.

Next steps: The ordinance passed first reading and will return for final adoption under the city's legislative schedule.