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Written by AP
Jan 21, 2012
Massachusetts this week celebrated a new state law that prohibits discrimination against them in employment, housing, insurance and credit.
AP reported that Gov. Deval Patrick told a crowded Statehouse ceremony on Jan. 19 that he was happy to approve the bill as a “matter of conscience” and to protect the rights and dignity of an estimated 33,000 transgender citizens in Massachusetts.
The measure, approved by lawmakers in November, also extends the state’s hate crime laws to cover transgender people.
Attorney General Martha Coakley said her office was ready to enforce the new law, adding that she hopes it won't often be necessary.
While hailing the law, supporters said they would also continue pushing for equal access in public accommodations. Critics have suggested that might lead to a breakdown in privacy in single-gender facilities such as rest rooms and locker rooms.
Source: AP
