More than 100 people and DFL state legislators attended a Capitol rally to denounce legislation in Minnesota and other states that would regulate the use of bathrooms by transgender individuals.
State. Sen. Scott Dibble, DFL-Minneapolis, criticized a bill introduced by House Republicans that would require individuals use restrooms that match their "biological sex."
Supporters and opponents of the measure packed a hearing room on Tuesday, when the legislation received an informational hearing. No vote was taken on the measure, sponsored by Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen, R-Glencoe.
Dibble decried rhetoric by Republicans that he said was divisive and aimed at sowing resentment against transgender individuals.
"That is exactly what this absurd, almost comical 'bathroom surveillance' bill is," Dibble said. "Comical except that an incredible, brave one young transgender teenager in the committee hearing just last week, weeping, demanding to be seen as a human being. That's not funny. In Minnesota, this will not stand."
Gov. Mark Dayton said he would veto the bill if it reaches his desk, and Senate DFLers also oppose it.
Organized by OutFront Minnesota, an LGBT rights organization, the event also brought out a few dozen DFL state representatives and senators.
