David B. Walser: HB2 a diversion from real issues

As a native North Carolinian, I find it appalling that Gov. Pat McCrory and the N.C. General Assembly hid behind the smokescreen of protecting our children. The mantra they have used to support discriminatory legislation to garner support for House Bill 2 has no basis in fact and no research to back up its claims.

Water tainted by coal-ash runoff is being downplayed. Arsenic, benzene and other carcinogens have a greater impact on our children than transgender people.

Yet, the current administration uses fear to divert attention away from the real issues. Cleaning up coal ash is expensive; passing unconstitutional laws is cheap. Who is really protecting our children?

This story was originally published August 11, 2016 at 4:37 PM with the headline "David B. Walser: HB2 a diversion from real issues."