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Questions arise over Florida’s bathroom bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida House took up two fiercely departed bills that critics say target transgender people.

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The House passed two of those bills. One would prevent children from being admitted into what’s called adult life performances. Critics said that measure is aimed at keeping children from seeing drag shows in Florida.

Another bill targets treatment such as hormone therapy and puberty blockers will be voted on at some point Wednesday.

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A third bill focused on bathroom use for transgender people was also approved. Now, there are concerns about what this could mean for businesses.

“If a person enters the restroom and another person believes them to be in the wrong facility under this bill, they could ask them to leave,” State Rep. Rachel Plakon (R-Lake Mary) said.

After that bill passed the House today 80 to 37, it’s now up to the Senate to decide if it becomes law to take a look at the legislation.

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It would require public and private businesses have restrooms separately designated for males and females, or a unisex restroom. It would make a bathroom violation a misdemeanor.

The bill also gives the attorney general a path to fine businesses up to $10,000 for anyone who is in violation. The Pride Chamber in Orlando said there are concerns that the legislation is not as clear as proponents say.

See the full story in the video above.

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.