The Charlotte City Council approved new legal protections for gay, lesbian and transgender residents on Monday with a 7-4 vote. This decision will expand Charlotte’s existing nondiscrimination ordinance and will potentially instigate conflict with the General Assembly. The new legal protections include businesses, by not permitting discrimination against LGBT individuals, and places of accommodations including bars, restaurants, stores and taxis. The most controversial aspect of the ordinance would permit transgender residents the choice to use the gendered bathroom in which they identify. 

Source: The News & Observer