Cooper signs executive order protecting LGBT residents from discrimination

Governor Roy Cooper says the state, or those who do business with the state can no longer discriminate against LGBT people.

Cooper today signed an executive order that prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, color, ethnicity, sex, National Guard or veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The order covers state agencies and those businesses who receive state contracts.

"By requiring companies that contract with the state to have non-discrimination policies, the state can promote protections for more North Carolinians outside of state government," Cooper said. "We've worked with the business community, advocates for the LGBT community and other North Carolinians who know our state is stronger because of our diversity, and I will keep working to make our state a welcoming and inclusive place."

The governor also announced a proposed settlement in the lawsuit challenging House Bill 2 and House Bill 142, the so-called bathroom bill and it's repeal legislation.

In a proposed consent decree, transgender residents of the state would not be barred from using public restrooms and other facilities that match their gender identity. A federal judge still has to sign off on that settlement.