Jackson Hole Becomes First Wyoming Town To Pass LGBT Protections

The resort city of Jackson Hole has claimed the honor of being the first locale in Wyoming – “the equality state” – to pass a non-discrimination ordinance that includes LGBT citizens. 

The Jackson Hole Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to add sexual orientation  and gender identity to its policy manual which governs hiring, personnel, and employment practices for the town. 

While tempers ran hot and voices were raised in Houston as the city council considered  similar protections, the public comment session in Jackson Hole was brief and composed.

No residents spoke in opposition to the adding the protections. Not one.

After the vote, Councilman Don Franks told reporters:

“Even though the town has been following this practice unofficially, acknowledgment in writing is the finest example the community can set.”

Jackson Hole mayor, Republican Mark Barron, agreed that updating the manual is the right thing to do.