R.I., Mass. among top 10 LGBT employment-friendly states

ACCORDING TO A new study by XpertHR, Rhode Island and Massachusetts are among the top 10 states with a progressive and friendly work environment for LGBT individuals. / BLOOMBERG FILE PHOTO/ANDREW HARRER
ACCORDING TO A new study by XpertHR, Rhode Island and Massachusetts are among the top 10 states with a progressive and friendly work environment for LGBT individuals. / BLOOMBERG FILE PHOTO/ANDREW HARRER

PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island and Massachusetts rank among the best places for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals to work, according to a new study by XpertHR.

“Although federal law does not protect LGBTs from employment discrimination, we examined states that prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, state-specific laws offering same-sex benefits, hate-crime laws, and a positive working/living climate to determine the best working environments for LGBTs,” said Peggy Carter-Ward, head of content for XpertHR, in a news release.

Earlier this year, Rhode Island passed legislation permitting same-sex marriage, which officially became legal on Aug. 1. Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003.

Three other New England states – Connecticut, Maine and Vermont – also ranked among the top LGBT-friendly states. California, Iowa, Minnesota, New York and Washington rounded out the list.

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According to XpertHR, a London-based employment law service, 52 percent of LGBT individuals live in states that do not prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

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