Mass. Teachers Unions Support Transgender Rights Bills
BOSTON (AP) — The state's two largest teachers unions are backing legislation that would expand a 2011 Massachusetts law that bans discrimination against transgender people in the workplace and in housing.
Presidents of the Massachusetts Teachers Association and the American Federation of Teachers said Monday they support the legislation.
Lawmakers are considering bills that would expand the 2011 law by also banning discrimination in restaurants, shopping malls and other public accommodations.
Advocates say they want teachers and students to be protected beyond the classroom.
Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has expressed concern about expanding the 2011 law. He says he supports nondiscrimination for anyone in the state but that the details of any bill are important.
Democratic House Speaker Robert DeLeo says he's not sure he has the votes to override a Baker veto.
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