Governor-elect Roy Cooper.
Chuck Burton / AP
The city council in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Monday voted to formally repeal a non-discrimination ordinance, the original passing of which had sparked a massive battle in the state over LGBT rights.
According to Governor-elect Roy Cooper, a Democrat, the surprise repeal was part of an agreement reached with lawmakers to in turn repeal a state law, House Bill 2 (or HB 2), that had banned such ordinances and restricted the rights of transgender people.
"Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Tim Moore assured me that as a result of Charlotte's vote, a special session will be called for Tuesday to repeal HB 2 in full," Cooper said in a statement. "I hope they will keep their word to me and with the help of Democrats in the legislature, HB2 will be repealed in full."
The Charlotte law, passed by the city in February 2016, had added marital and familial status, sexual orientation, gender expression, and gender identity to the list of protected characteristics on which individuals cannot be discriminated against by businesses or public accommodations.
In response, the North Carolina legislature hastily convened in a March special session to pass HB 2, which preempted the Charlotte ordinance and also banned certain transgender people from using restrooms in government buildings that match their gender identity.
HB 2 drew national attention and prompted massive backlash from LGBT activists and their supporters, prompting businesses and celebrities to boycott the state.
The Republican governor who signed the law, Pat McCrory, narrowly last his re-election bid, conceding defeat to Cooper earlier this month.
Jason E. Miczek / AP Images for Human Rights Campaign
The Charlotte ordinance was repealed Monday in a unanimous 10-0 vote by the city council, the Charlotte Observer reported.
Mayor Jennifer Roberts called the move "the first concrete opportunity to repeal HB 2," according to the newspaper.
In a statement, the City Council said the move was taken because officials recognized "the ongoing negative economic impact resulting from the passage" of the ordinance and HB 2.
"In order to continue thriving as an inclusive community and compete for high paying jobs and world-class events, the City and State must take action together to restore our collective reputation," Charlotte officials said.
City council members urged state lawmakers to "follow immediately with a repeal of House Bill 2."
"The City of Charlotte is deeply dedicated to protecting the rights of all people from discrimination and, with House Bill 2 repealed, will be able to pursue that priority for our community," city official said.
Governor-elect Cooper said he hoped the repeal of HB 2 would bring jobs back to the state.
"Full repeal will help to bring jobs, sports and entertainment events back and will provide the opportunity for strong LGBT protections in our state," Cooper said.
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