Britain has issued new advice to gay tourists about travel to North Carolina and Mississippi, states that have recently passed laws deemed as discriminatory.
"The U.S, is an extremely diverse society and attitudes towards [lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender] people differ hugely across the country," according to the statement posted on the U.K.'s Foreign Office website earlier this week. "LGBT travelers may be affected by legislation passed recently in the states of North Carolina and Mississippi."
"Before travelling please read our general travel advice for the LGBT community," it added.
In March, North Carolina imposed a ban on local anti-discrimination ordinances allowing transgender individuals to use bathroom facilities of their preference. The move sparked condemnation and boycotts from an array of artists, musicians and campaigners.
The Mississippi Senate has passed legislation stipulating that businesses, social workers and public employees cannot be punished for denying services based on the belief that marriage is between a man and a woman or that "sexual relations are properly reserved to such a marriage." The March 30 bill also protects individuals who believe gender is determined at birth.
Related: Pearl Jam Joins Boycott of North Carolina Over LGBT Law
"When you are physically present in a state, even temporarily, you are subject to that state’s laws," according to the travel advice. "You must carry a passport showing that you have leave to enter or remain with you at all times."
