Congressman Attempts to Halt Obama's 'Bullying' Over Bathroom Bill

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Robert Pittenger, R-N.C., has proposed an amendment to appropriations legislation to prevent what he calls the "bullying" of North Carolina.

The move comes in response to "threats" from the Obama administration to punish North Carolina over the state's H.B. 2, also known as the "bathroom bill."  The controversial measure states that individuals using publicly owned restrooms and locker rooms must use the facility that matches the sex on their birth certificate.

In response, the Obama administration issued a directive saying states must allow transgender students to use whatever bathroom that matches their gender preference.

Pittenger's proposed amendment would block any attempts from President Barack Obama to withhold previously dedicated federal funding from states failing to comply with the directive.

This particular amendment applies to funding through the Departments of Interior and Energy, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the Army Corps of Engineers.

"It is critical that we address this and we rein in this president who has time and again used his authority and the abuse of his power," Pittenger charged.

The amendment passed by voice but was met with harsh opposition from Democrats, who have requested a recorded vote.

H.B. 2 has led to protests, boycotts, and condemnation at the federal level. Undaunted, Pittenger plans to propose similar amendments on future appropriations bills.