The bathroom battles are continuing, with the Massachusetts House passing a transgender rights bill.
The new ordinance will allow transgender people to use whichever bathroom or locker room they choose.
Hundreds of people crowded the House to protest the bill.
Critics say sexual predators could make false claims to gain access to women's restrooms.
"We're concerned about the safety of our kids," said Rep. James Lyon, R-Andover. "This has nothing to do with transgender. It has to do with the protection of our children."
"I do not defend a perpetrator who will take advantage of that law and go in and harm a young man or young woman," Rep. Elizabeth Poirier, R-North Attleboro, said. "We are opening the door to this happening."
Lawmakers backing the legislation say that it is time for a move toward equality.
"Things that many of us take for granted -- going to a restaurant, riding on the T, going shopping, visiting a loved one in the hospital -- right now these are all fair game for unequal treatment and harassment," Rep. Christine Barber, D-34th Middlesex District, said.
The bill now goes to the state Senate and Gov. Charlie Baker says he will sign it if it passes.
Did you know?
God is everywhere—even in the news. That’s why we view every news story through the lens of faith. We are committed to delivering quality independent Christian journalism you can trust. But it takes a lot of hard work, time, and money to do what we do. Help us continue to be a voice for truth in the media by supporting CBN News for as little as $1.
Support CBN News
