BENTONVILLE (KFSM) – Retail-giant Walmart has said it is against a new Arkansas law that prohibits cities and counties from enacting ordinances to protect the civil rights of those not already covered by state or federal law.
Lorenzo Lopez, senior director of communications for Walmart said, “Every day, in our stores, we see firsthand the benefits diversity and inclusion have on our associates, customers and communities we serve. It all starts with the core basic belief of respect for the individual. And that means understanding and respecting differences and being inclusive of all people.”
He continued by saying although the new law doesn’t change how Walmart would treat its employees, the legislation “sends the wrong message about Arkansas, as well as the diverse environment which exists in the state.”
Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Feb. 23 allowed the legislation to become law without his signature. It will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
