Republicans Pass Sweeping Anti-Gay Bill in Special Session

Led by Republican Speaker Tim Moore (photo),Â Republican House lawmakers in North Carolina have just passed a sweepingly broad anti-gay bill in a special session called just for this one bill. The billÂ will void all local nondiscrimination ordinances. It will also mandate that all public accommodations ordinances, all minimum wage ordinances, and allÂ employment discrimination ordinances come only from the General AssemblyÂ â€“ state lawmakersÂ â€“ effectivelyÂ banning any localities from protecting citizens in any of these areas.

The bill, HB 2, passed by a huge margin, 83-24, after less than three hours of debate and just 30 minutes of public comment.

HB 2 now heads to the Senate, who will take it up immediately.Â

It is expected to pass and Governor Pat McCrory, who called for the bill, is fully expected to sign it.

The bill is a direct response to a nondiscrimination ordinance passed by the Charlotte City Council. State GOP lawmakers were incensed that it allows transgender citizens use public restrooms that corresponds withÂ with theirÂ gender identity.

Final NC House 83-24. Here’s how each legislator voted. #ncpol #ncga Off to the Senate… pic.twitter.com/qHozvDVasR â€” Colin Campbell (@RaleighReporter) March 23, 2016

Â

Â

This is a breaking news and developing story. Details may change. This story will be updated, and NCRM will likely publish follow-up stories on this news. Stay tuned and refresh for updates.

Â

Stay with NCRM throughout the day as we publish the latest news on this legislation. And please follow us onÂ TwitterÂ andÂ Facebook.



Image: Screenshot via Carolina Business Review/YouTube