Rep. John Carmichael, D-Wichita, said he opposes Merrick’s letter and will not sign it, although he acknowledged that the speaker and supporting lawmakers have the right to petition the federal government.

 

He said he would oppose any effort to pass a formal resolution, which he said would be “an expression of hostility by the state of Kansas toward transgender individuals. We know what the consequence of that is.”

 

Carmichael cited North Carolina, which faces lost business and boycotts by entertainers upset that the state has passed a law requiring transgender people to use restrooms corresponding to their sex at birth.

 

“We would find ourselves with the same brand of shame” as North Carolina, Carmichael said. “If we want Kansas to be open for business, resolutions like this discourage national employers from coming to our state.”

http://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article79923027.html