Why trans rights Matter for business: Reflections from the Maine state house

By Benn Marine, Director of Social & Environmental Impact

Yesterday, I spent over 16 hours at the Maine State House. I arrived at 7:30am to ensure I could testify against a wave of anti-trans legislation, and I stayed until the committee adjourned-- after all in person testimony was heard-- at midnight. Eight bills were heard by the Judiciary Committee, each one a direct threat to the rights and dignity of transgender people in our state.

While my body was tired, my spirit was galvanized.

The outpouring of opposition was extraordinary. Testimony after testimony—heartfelt, informed, and courageous—came from young people, parents, doctors, faith leaders, teachers, and neighbors. Together, we sent a clear message: hate has no home here. And yet, amidst the hundreds of voices raised in defense of trans lives, I realized I may have been the only one to speak from a business perspective. As a business leader and a transgender man, this was an alarming observation.

At Campfire Consulting, we believe media has the power to shape culture. But culture is shaped not just by stories—it’s shaped by policy. And as a business rooted in impact and storytelling, we know that the health of our economy is inextricably linked to the health and safety of our communities.

So let me say it plainly: anti-trans legislation is bad for business.

These bills don’t just target individuals—they send a dangerous message to the rest of the country that Maine is not a safe or welcoming place for LGBTQ+ people. For businesses trying to recruit top talent, that’s a dealbreaker. For families looking to relocate, that’s a red flag. For young people already here, it's a signal that they don’t belong—and that message has economic consequences.

In my testimony, I shared that Campfire is a remote company because we’ve struggled to find the talent we need here in Maine. But we’ve started to see that shift. Talented professionals are moving here because of Maine’s values—because we have, until now, been a place where LGBTQ+ people can live freely and fully. Repealing protections or advancing harmful bills would undo that progress.

Businesses thrive in communities where people feel safe, supported, and included. When we invest in equity, we unlock innovation. When we stand for justice, we strengthen our workforce. When we create policies that affirm the rights and dignity of all people, we build an economy—and a state—worth staying in.

This isn’t just about morality. It’s about strategy. It's about the future of our workforce, the vibrancy of our local economies, and the reputation of our state.

To my fellow business leaders: now is the time to speak up. The cost of silence is too high. Let’s make sure Maine remains a place where everyone belongs—because that’s good for business, and it’s the right thing to do.