HARTFORD – Today, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after President Obama announced his intention to sign an executive order banning contractors from receiving federal government contracts unless they have a policy prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

This past March, Murphy was joined by more than 200 U.S. Senators and Representatives in sending a letter to President Obama, urging the Administration to take this necessary action.

“The President's action sends a strong message that discrimination against employees based on who they love simply won't be tolerated. For too long, our friends, neighbors, and family members have faced unconscionable discrimination based on their sexual orientation. That has no place in our society, and especially at work. I applaud President Obama's leadership on this civil rights issue, and stand with him in my unwavering support for the LGBT community.”