Massachusetts Transgender Law Goes Into Effect
BOSTON (AP) — Advocates for transgender people in Massachusetts say they can no longer be legally discriminated against in public places.
A new law taking effect on Saturday bars discrimination on the basis of gender identity in public accommodations. Among other things, the statute allows transgender people to use bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond to their gender identity.
The Democratic-controlled Legislature approved the bill after several years of disagreement over the issue. Republican Gov. Charlie Baker signed it into law in July.
Attorney General Maura Healey and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination recently issued guidelines to businesses for complying with the law.
But not everyone is happy with it. The Massachusetts Family Institute is hoping to put a question before voters on the November 2018 ballot calling for repeal of the measure.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.