Baker Says He Would Sign House Version of ‘Bathroom Bill’

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker says he would sign a bill banning discrimination against transgender people in public accommodations if it includes language sought by House leaders.

The promise on Tuesday comes after the Republican governor for months declined to say whether he would sign the bill, which would allow individuals to use restrooms that correspond with their gender identity, among other things.

Baker said in a statement the House version of the bill — scheduled for debate on Wednesday — would address concerns about people abusing the law by claiming gender identity for "improper" reasons.

The Senate passed legislation earlier this month that does not include that language. Senate leaders have said, however, that they do not believe the House provision would hurt the overall purpose of the bill.