Top Kansas lawmaker leads protest on federal LGBT directive

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A top Kansas legislator is drafting a letter to federal officials promising resistance to a recent directive on accommodating transgender students in public schools.

House Speaker Ray Merrick circulated a copy of the letter Wednesday to fellow House members to give them a chance to sign on.

Merrick spokeswoman Rachel Whitten said the Stilwell Republican intends to send it June 2, the day after the ceremony formally adjourning the Legislature's annual session.

The letter questions whether President Barack Obama's administration has the authority to require public schools to allow transgender students to use restrooms and other facilities associated with their gender identities.

Merrick circulated his letter as 11 other states sued over the directive.

LGBT-rights advocate Tom Witt said such resistance will lead to transgender students being bullied.

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The Gayly - 5/25/2016 @ 5:22 p.m. CDT