Md. bill to stop transgender discrimination signed

BRIAN WITTE
Associated Press

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Gov. Martin O’Malley has signed a measure to stop discrimination against transgender people.

O’Malley signed the measure Thursday at his last bill signing ceremony.

The term-limited governor says the measure moves the state closer to creating that “open, respectful, inclusive world that we want for all of our children.”

The law prohibits discrimination on matters relating to housing, employment, credit and use of public accommodations.

The law would take effect on Oct. 1. However, a group of opponents hopes voters will get the last say. Opponents contend the measure would allow predators into opposite sex restrooms.

Opponents will need to collect 18,579 signatures by May 31 and a total of 55,736 signatures by June 30 to get a referendum on the ballot for November’s election.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up