Fairfax County has earned the top score possible, a grade of 100, on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2024 Municipal Equality Index (MEI). The MEI is a nationwide evaluation of how inclusive the county’s laws, policies and services are of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. 

"Our score, which has risen steadily over the past few years, is a reflection of the important work we continue to do under our county's One Fairfax policy," said County Executive Bryan Hill. "It's also the direct result of our dedicated staff's efforts to make Fairfax County a welcoming place to work, live and learn. I am proud of what we have all accomplished together as a team."

A Deep Dive Into the Score

The MEI awards points in five categories: Non-discrimination Laws, Municipality as Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement and Leadership on LGBTQ+ Equality. Each category has room for base points, as well as what HRC deems “flex points” in each area. Fairfax County scored a 93 across all categories along with an additional 13 flex points to achieve the final 100 (maximum) grade. Additionally, our area got full available base points in the Non-discrimination Laws, Municipality as Employer and Law Enforcement categories. 

About the Municipality Equality Index

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Municipality Equality Index examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies and services are in cities and towns across the country. The MEI provides a public snapshot of how committed a given city or town is to LGBTQ+ equality and a framework for leaders around the country with impactful steps they can take to protect their LGBTQ+ residents and staff. The 2024 MEI is the 12th annual edition and rates a total of 506 municipalities on 49 different criteria from every state in the nation.