April 20, 2017      1:25 AM

Updated: Overnight hearing on Simmons bathroom bill underway in House State Affairs

Bill was laid out around 11:30pm; Chairman Cook expresses dismay that businesses are not present to speak out

An overnight hearing in House State Affairs got underway around 11:30pm on a contentious bill focused on restrooms by Rep. Ron Simmons, R-Carrollton, as more than 100 people lined up to speak on the issue that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick continues to push despite Washington standing down and business interests arguing such regulations will put the Texas economic powerhouse at risk of losing its edge.  

In its current form, House Bill 2899 would preempt any local ordinances allowing transgender individuals to use bathrooms in accordance with their gender identity.

The pushback from business groups and advocates for transgender Texans remained steadfast.

By James Russell

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