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By Leon Stafford

In-coming Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian on Friday praised Gov. Nathan Deal’s signal that he will reject a controversial “religious liberty” bill if it legalizes discrimination.

“Delta applauds Governor Deal for his leadership and clear message that discrimination of any kind is unacceptable,” Bastian said in a release.

“With a diverse workforce that includes more than 30,000 employees across Georgia, we fully support Governor Deal rejecting a bill, including Bill 757, that would do anything other than uphold equality and ensure Georgia remains a welcoming state for everyone,” Bastian said.

Deal, in speaking about House Bill 757 on Thursday, said it is not necessary to discriminate against others to protect one’s faith and urged religious conservatives not to feel threatened by gay marriage.

Opponents of the bill say it allows faith-based organizations and individuals to discriminate against gays and lesbians. The legislation’s supporters, however, say it is needed to protect those with sincerely held religious beliefs from coercive government action.

Delta is a member of Georgia Prospers – a coalition of businesses, leaders and organizations that have banded together to oppose the legislation.