Nevada AG, governor differ on Obama transgender bathroom directive

LAS VEGAS — Nevada’s top elected Republicans are taking differing approaches to President Barack Obama’s directive on bathroom access for transgender students.

Republican Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt said Monday that the Obama Administration had issued “coercive guidance” last week that ignored the balance of power between federal, state and local governments.

The administration told schools they’re obligated to let transgender students use bathrooms and lockers rooms consistent with their chosen gender identity, even if their education records or identity documents indicate a different sex.

Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval’s office pointed to a 2011 state law that gives people equal access to public accommodations and bars discrimination based on gender identity.

His spokeswoman said no change in policy is needed and the Obama Administration “has no need to have concerns about Nevada schools.”