Senate Leader Berger Says HB2 Will Stay In Place

A North Carolina legislative leader says he doesn't see the need to repeal or revise House Bill 2.  State Senate Leader Phil Berger's remarks came one day after a federal appeals court ruling that threw the law's legality into question.

At a news conference on the upcoming legislative session, Berger referred to HB2 as a common sense bathroom safety bill. The law governs transgender bathroom access in many public buildings.

Earlier in the week, an appeals court in Virginia ruled in favor of a transgender teenager who wanted to use a school bathroom consistent with his gender identity. It sets a precedent which could be used to strike down portions of HB2.

The law triggered widespread criticism from equality advocates and business leaders nationwide.

But Berger, a Republican, says he doesn't think HB2 needs to be altered when lawmakers return next week.

He called the Virginia decision “troubling,” and told reporters it will not be the last word on this issue.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.