Critics of HB2 call McCrory's latest move a 'PR stunt'
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Critics are speaking out against Gov. Pat McCrory's executive order on House Bill 2, calling the move a "PR stunt."
The order expands protections for state employees to include sexual orientation and gender identity.
It would also give North Carolinians the option to sue for relief in state court.
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However, the order does not change a ban on transgender people using the bathroom of their choice.
Opponents say the amendments do not go far enough to protect the LGBT community.
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"I took it as a bit of a bait and switch. It was an attempt by the governor to try and divert attention away from all of the terrible stuff that House Bill 2 is doing to the LGBT community," said Sarah Preston, ACLU of North Carolina acting executive director.
The ACLU of North Carolina is suing over the new law.
"I think if the governor really wanted to show leadership in this area he would have called for a full repeal," Preston said.
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NC Republican lawmaker Rep. Paul "Skip" Stam is one of HB2's primary sponsors.
He told ABC11 he is open to the governor's requested amendments.
"I have spoken with the other primary sponsor, Rep. Dan Bishop, and he would be amenable to that change as well," Stam said.
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Stam still stands by the legislation, and criticized companies and event groups for rolling back business in North Carolina.
"Some of it is just frankly crazy, like the NBA not wanting to come to Charlotte. If they were serious about wanting to support the city of Charlotte in its fight with the state of North Carolina, the last thing they would do is boycott Charlotte," he said.
State lawmakers are set to return to Raleigh for a short session April 25.
