The Triangle’s high-tech and startup communities have been among the most outspoken critics of “HB2,” and the Greater Raleigh of Chamber of Commerce weighed in on the battle Tuesday. Its CEO called for “immediate repeal” of the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, pointing out that a tech company had pulled a possible 1,000 job expansion in the Triangle area.

Tim Giuliani, who is President and CEO of the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, did not disclose the name of the company.

However, Giuliani noted that Deutsche Bank has already canceled a 250-job expansion in Wake County.

Earlier, PayPal called off a 300-job expansion in Charlotte.

While Gov. Pat McCrory issued an executive order making some changes in the bill and a federal court case in Virginia could have an impact on some aspects of the law, Giuliani is adamant that the bill must go. He declared that worse economic damage is coming.

“Several other companies have eliminated us from consideration, explicitly citing this bill,” he said.

“Our Convention and Visitors Bureau is reporting over $3.2 million in lost revenues, and much more is at risk.”

While bands have canceled concerts and some trade shows/exhibitions have been called off, many members of the tech and startup communities have also been adamant in opposition to HB2. From protests to on-the-record statements, the number of protests against the legislation continue to grow.(See links with this story that document the opposition from tech and startup companies.)

“As an economic development entity, the ability for the Chamber to recruit and facilitate business growth and talent in our market is necessary,” Giuliani said in an email. “An inclusive and welcoming environment is essential for attracting and retaining the talented workforce that is critical for growing great companies and building our economy.

“Due to the economic impact and negative reputation HB2 has created for our area, the Chamber is issuing a formal policy position opposing the legislation.”

Statement in full

Here is the statement:

“The Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce opposes HB2 and calls for its immediate repeal. This legislation is bad for business and bad for North Carolina. We must eliminate the issues this legislation creates. The Greater Raleigh Chamber will work with Gov. Pat McCrory, legislators, and other elected leaders to find a solution that is in the best interest of our region and state while strengthening our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality.

“The Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to sustain and further develop a thriving economy and to enhance our community’s quality of life. We are against discrimination in all forms. The Triangle’s growth and success depend on attracting and retaining top talent and companies. Raleigh, Wake County and the Triangle region’s commitment to inclusion and equality makes our area a top place to live and do business.

“HB2 has already harmed business growth in Wake County, and the state of North Carolina’s reputation. This legislation is a threat to our mission as an organization devoted to growing our region’s economy. Our state has been represented negatively in more than 5,300 media outlets across the United States with nearly 8 billion impressions.

“In Wake County, we have lost 250 committed jobs from Deutsche Bank, as well as a technology company that was considering the creation of up to 1,000 jobs in our region. Several other companies have eliminated us from consideration, explicitly citing this bill. Our Convention and Visitors Bureau is reporting over $3.2 million in lost revenues, and much more is at risk.

“We are committed to working with our legislators to find the best path going forward, as well as bringing diverse talent to our area. We will continue to measure the economic impact of HB2, and updates can be found on the Chamber website.”

Chamber website:

http://www.raleighchamber.org/