Legislature Passes Transgender Anti-Discrimination Bill

BOSTON - Representative David Linsky (D-Natick) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives to pass legislation that provides equal access to public places for every resident of the Commonwealth, regardless of gender identity. Public accommodations include but are not limited to restaurants, nursing homes, coffee shops, grocery stores, and sports arenas.

“I strongly believe that all citizens are entitled to the same rights, privileges, benefits, and opportunities, regardless of gender identity,” stated Representative Linsky. “I consider myself a proud ally of the LGBTQ community, and pledge to always fight for the dignity and rights of all people in the Commonwealth.”

H.4343; An Act relative to transgender anti-discrimination, builds on the Transgender Equal Rights Bill, passed in 2011, which prohibited discrimination on the basis of gender identity in housing, education, employment, and credit. H.4343 extends protection against discrimination against transgender individuals in public accommodations. This legislation completes almost a decade of advocacy around full protection of transgender residents in the Commonwealth.

The House passed H.4343 in a vote of 116-36 and now goes back to the Senate for concurrence before it is sent to the Governor for his signature.

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For more information: Abigail Silverman (617) 722-2575