California Initiates Travel Ban That They're Opposed To

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California leaders have been very vocal about opposing the so-called "travel ban" from six nations suspected of supporting terrorism. I say "so-called," because it's not a "ban," just an increased vetting process. But that doesn't matter. California has enacted its own travel ban. State workers cannot engage in any official travel to four states sponsoring what California describes more or less as "LGBT terrorism." On the list: Kentucky, because of a religious liberty law; North Carolina, because of its controversial "bathroom law;" Texas, for their law allowing parents to refuse to allow adoptions based on religious beliefs; Alabama and South Dakota, for what California says are laws that "could prevent LGBT couples from adopting or serving as foster parents;" Kansas, for allowing religious organizations to enforce their religious beliefs in school-based clubs; Mississippi, for passing a law that allows religious beliefs to not be considered "discrimination;" and Tennessee, for country music (just kidding -- and to see if you were reading -- in actuality, for passing a law that says counselors cannot be forced to give counseling that violates their religious beliefs). California says these laws are aimed at LGBT people. But think about it: if you're a woman who has no issue with premarital sex, do you really want a counselor who's a fundamentalist "no sex before marriage, and then only the missionary position" believer trying to help you with an issue? Or would a man dealing with sexual abuse at the hands of a priest want a Catholic counselor who thinks all these charges against the Catholic Church are a "Protestant conspiracy to attack the one true church"? Or, for that matter, would a deeply religious person want a counselor who's an atheist -- or would the atheist want to counsel someone who wants to discussion religion throughout the session? No, these bills aren't "aimed" at LGBT people. Only in California's twisted mind. It reminds me of something I heard McLean Stevenson say one night back in the 70s, when he was guest-hosting The Tonight Show for Johnny Carson: "California is like a bowl of granola. All you have are nuts, flakes, and fruits." We'll not miss you, California state workers. But you will miss us because by coming to these states -- six of which are southern states -- you might learn a thing or two about politeness, manners, and hospitality. Have a little California dreamin' on such a summer's day: