Charlotte City leaders react after LGBT non-discrimination policies struck down

CHARLOTTE, NC (WJZY) - Charlotte City leaders are reacting after the non-discrimination ordinance was struck down late Wednesday. Gov. Pat McCrory signed the law to block it.

FOX 46 caught up with Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts Thursday and other state leaders. Some said they're on edge after the General Assembly's historic vote. They said they're hopeful that even though McCrory signed the new law - that it's not the final decision.

Less than 24 hours after McCrory signed the new bill into law, Mayor Roberts said she's hopeful this isn't the end.

"I have a feeling looking at what federal cases have dealt with around facilities, around Title 9, around transgendered individuals...I have a feeling they're going to have to change this law," Roberts said.

A Charlotte lawyer told FOX 46 this would bring new challenges for the LGBT community, not being able to file lawsuits for discrimination in business and hotel settings.

Local Charlotte activist Matt Hirschy agreed. He's the Director of Advancement for Equality NC, an organization advocating for LGBT rights in North Carolina.

I have to say I'm getting really really tired of living in a state that consistently tells me I'm less than. And that consistently tells me and my friends that we're not worthy," Hirschy said.

On the other hand, some say the governor and General Assembly did the right thing by blocking the ordinance.

"So what we're going to do from now on with all the men's and women's room is that men are going to use the men's room and biological men not emasculated...biological men and biological women."

FOX 46 also spoke to congress woman Nancy Pelosi who said local governments should have a say in non-discrimination policies.

"It's going against the kind of progress for our country for ending discrimination and I was very saddened to learn the decision" Pelosi said.

State lawmakers have been promising legislative intervention even before Charlotte City Council voted on the LGBT ordinance. The General Assembly decided to take action right before the ordinance would take effect.

Mayor Roberts said they're still sorting through the language of the writing, and to also figure out any legal action they can take.

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