More Employers Offer Benefits to GLBT Workers Than in the Past, According to Report

In it's sixth year the Corporate Equity Index, sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation found more acceptance of GLBT workers. It reports that more employers are offering full benefit packages to their GLBT workers.

More than 8.3 million workers are employed at companies that met all of the criteria quizzed by the Human Rights Campaign. The study rated various factors including having non-discrimination policies, diversity training, and benefits programs for same-sex domestic partners and transgender employees.

Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese said, "More businesses than ever before have recognized the value of a diverse and dedicated workforce. More importantly, these employers understand that discrimination against GLBT workers will ultimately hurt their ability to compete in the global marketplace."

More companies rated 100 percent

When the survey about GLBT benefits began six years ago, only 13 companies received the top rating. Between them, these 13 companies employed 690,000 workers. Last year? 138 companies rated "100 percent" in the GLBT survey. This year? That figure has increased a whopping 41 percent. Today, 195 major U.S. corporations offer benefits to their GLBT workers.

Cities and towns are also protecting GLBT workers

Cities and towns in the U.S. are also adding workplace protections to protect workers against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Over 280 cities and towns, 19 states have laws or ordinances to protect people from discrimination based on sexual orientation. The laws in 11 states also prohibit discrimination based on gender identity.

Businesses anticipate federal legislation concerning GLBT benefits