O'Malley Signs Bill Aimed at Stopping Discrimination Against Transgender People

Gov. Martin O'Malley has signed a measure to stop discrimination against transgender people.

O'Malley signed the measure Thursday at his last bill signing ceremony.

The term-limited governor says the measure moves the state closer to creating that "open, respectful, inclusive world that we want for all of our children.''

The law prohibits discrimination on matters relating to housing, employment, credit and use of public accommodations.

The law would take effect on Oct. 1. However, a group of opponents hopes voters will get the last say. Opponents contend the measure would allow predators into opposite sex restrooms.

Opponents will need to collect 18,579 signatures by May 31 and a total of 55,736 signatures by June 30 to get a referendum on the ballot for November's election.