CLT Council Shows No Compromise on Controversial HB2

CHARLOTTE, NC — Charlotte City Council makes another controversial move dealing with transgender rights.

They decided to remove a discussion to repeal the non-discrimination ordinance that led to House Bill Two from the agenda of Monday’s meeting.

The discussion would have been a symbolic gesture telling lawmakers council is back tracking on transgender protections.

“When it comes to fundamental civil rights, you don’t compromise out any minority group,” said Chad Griffin with the Human Rights Campaign.

“What we’re gonna do is get rid of this mayor,” said minister Flip Benham.

Police led Benham out after he interrupted Monday’s meeting.

Council cancelled the plans to discuss and possibly vote on whether to repeal the non-discrimination ordinance that protected transgender residents.

Charlotte Chamber President Bob Morgan requested the move in an open letter writing in part:

“We fear that if the city council doesn’t take a first step, the crushing economic suffering… will continue for years while the courts ultimately resolve the issue.”

“We did not have an item that was adequate to move the conversation forward,” said Mayor Jennifer Roberts.”That it would not help advance a solution to the challenges that we have.”

Council member Kenny Smith wanted the discussion.

“I think a symbolic gesture from the city of Charlotte would show that we are here to work with them in good faith,” said Smith.

Some state leaders say council’s non-discrimination ordinance snowballed into HB2 which is costing Charlotte jobs and money.

“If somebody wants to do something about the law House Bill Two, then it should be the people who wrote the law, shouldn’t it?” said John Autry.

“If the General assembly thinks that Charlotte can do something, put it in writing,” said Council Member Lawana Mayfield. “Put your request, whatever that is, in writing. Also state in writing what are you going to do to create jobs for this state.”

LGBT Supporters thanked council for taking discussions off the table.

“This Charlotte City Council did the right thing. They were simply catching up with the rest of the country,” said Griffin.

The council will get a formal report on the economic impact of HB2 this week.