The state House tentatively passed a bill that would provide alternative restrooms and dressing areas to transgender students in schools.
The bill would also allow private action against schools if they give students permission to use restrooms or sleeping quarters opposite of their sex at birth.
Opponents such as Democrat and teacher Nancy Gutierrez say the measure would harm trans students.
"The truth is that my transgender students are the ones who are afraid to go to the bathroom during the school day because they are afraid of what some of the other school kids will do because they are learning this kind of hate at home," Gutierrez said.
Supporters say the proposal would protect children from sexual assault.
The bill goes through another House vote.
