The NBA (National Basketball Association) has finally announced that it will be moving the 2017 All-Star Game from North Carolina because of the state's anti-LGBT law, HB2.

 

"While we recognize that the NBA cannot choose the law in every city, state, and country in which we do business, we do not believe we can successfully host our All-Star festivities in Charlotte in the climate created by HB2," the league said in a statement.

 

HB2 blocks local governments from passing anti-discrimination laws. It also requires that trans individuals use the restroom that corresponds to their gender listed on their birth certificate (and not as they identify now).

 

"We are particularly mindful of the impact of this decision on our fans in North Carolina, who are among the most passionate in our league," the statement continued. "It is also important to stress that the City of Charlotte and the Hornets organization have sought to provide an inclusive environment and that the Hornets will continue to ensure that all patrons -- including members of the LGBT community -- feel welcome while attending games and events in their arena."

 

North Carolina's governor, Pat McCrory, is pissed at the decision.

 

“The sports and entertainment elite, Attorney General Roy Cooper and the liberal media have for months misrepresented our laws and maligned the people of North Carolina simply because most people believe boys and girls should be able to use school bathrooms, locker rooms and showers without the opposite sex present," McCrory replied in a statement.

 

The state has already lost over $100 million in economic activity since HB2 was passed. One would think McCrory would be more concerned about that, than sticking to his bigoted ways.

 

The league has yet to announce a new host city for the All-Star event. It has offered to hold the 2019 event in Charlotte if North Carolina alters its laws by then.