Massachusetts House passes transgender bill

On Wednesday, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a bill that would allow people to use the bathrooms and locker rooms that match their gender identity.

The vote was 116-36, and came after a six-hour debate. The bill also would protect transgender people from discrimination in malls, restaurants, libraries, and other public accommodations. The House's version of the bill is different from one passed earlier by the Senate, The Boston Globe reports, and Gov. Charlie Baker (R) has announced he will sign a version of the bill. Critics say the bill would allow men to pretend to be transgender women in order to gain access to restrooms and locker rooms, while supporters say those fears are unfounded.

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