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LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index Falls, Talent Flee Anti-States

6/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Out Leadership's LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index fell for a fourth year, with the national average at 53.1 points.
Todd Sears said 12 new indicators on bathroom bans and gender-affirming care lowered the average to 60.63 and widened the gap to 66 points.
Massachusetts led 2026 with 93.85, putting Arkansas at the lowest 28.06.
Out Leadership warned talent flight from anti-LGBTQ states is harming inclusion and economic performance.

History

Historical Context

In 2015 Supreme Court decision Obergefell v. Hodges, authored by Justice Anthony Kennedy, the Court held 5-4 that the Fourteenth Amendment requires all states to license and recognize same-sex marriages, overturning Baker v. Nelson and building on Windsor (2013) and Lawrence (2003). Before the ruling, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states, D.C., and Guam.

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Story summary

Out Leadership's LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index fell for a fourth year, with the national average at 53.1 points.
Todd Sears said 12 new indicators on bathroom bans and gender-affirming care lowered the average to 60.63 and widened the gap to 66 points.
Massachusetts led 2026 with 93.85, putting Arkansas at the lowest 28.06.
Out Leadership warned talent flight from anti-LGBTQ states is harming inclusion and economic performance.

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