Hutchinson: Transgender bathroom debate likely next year

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson says he's opposed to taking up legislation during this week's session regarding which restrooms transgender people can use, but says he expects the issue to come up when lawmakers return next year.

The Republican governor told reporters Thursday he opposed adding legislation dealing with the issue to the agenda for the special session focusing primarily on his highway plan. Hutchinson last week recommended public schools in his state disregard an Obama administration directive that they must permit transgender students to use bathrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity.

Hutchinson said he told lawmakers he'd be happy to work with them on any "privacy concerns" that need to be addressed because of the directive. He didn't specify what legislation, if any, he would support.

ANDREW DeMILLO, Associated Press

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The Gayly - 5/19/2016 @ 12:44 p.m. CDT