Yesterday, Maryland’s High Court rejected a petition effort that would have interfered with a recent Montgomery County law banning discrimination based on gender identity. The law, which prohibits gender identity-based discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations, was passed by the Montgomery County Council last November and signed into law by County Executive Isaiah Legget.
According to the Washington Post , opponents of the law were concerned about its application in relation to public restrooms and locker rooms. Maryland Citizens for Responsible Government were among the organizations, that gathered the thousands of signatures required to put the referendum on Maryland’s ballot. Although the placement of the measure was upheld by a lower court, yesterday’s ruling overturns that decision. The high court quickly ruled due to today’s deadline to approve the language on the November 4 ballot. The court’s decision is expected to be released at a later date.
In a press release Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese applauded the court’s ruling, stating “no one’s civil rights should ever be put to a vote, and the court’s decision gives meaning to that essential principle.”
