Churches Sue Over Massachusetts Transgender Bathroom Law

BOSTON (AP) - A conservative Christian organization has filed a federal lawsuit challenging a Massachusetts law that prohibits discrimination against transgender people in public restrooms.

Alliance Defending Freedom sued Tuesday on behalf of four Massachusetts churches to protect their right to operate their facilities "in a manner that doesn't violate their core religious beliefs."

The law allows transgender people to use restrooms that correspond with their gender identity.

The lawsuit says because Democratic Attorney General Maura Healey has found that churches are places of public accommodation, it would force them to open shower facilities and restrooms based on perceived gender identity.

The lawsuit asks the court to suspend enforcement of the law against the churches while their lawsuit proceeds.

Healey's spokeswoman says the office is reviewing the lawsuit but is proud of the law.