Massachusetts Legislature Approves Transgender Rights Bill

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts is a step closer to becoming the first U.S. state this year to pass a law that would allow transgender people to use restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identities.

The state House and Senate on Thursday approved a compromise bill that extends anti-discrimination protections to include public accommodations. The measure now goes to Republican Gov. Charlie Baker’s desk.

A spokeswoman for Baker says he looks forward to “carefully reviewing” the final version of the bill.

Previous statements by the governor indicate that he is likely to sign the measure.

The issue has stirred controversy elsewhere, notably in North Carolina where a law was passed requiring people to use restrooms that correspond to the sex on their birth certificates.