Michigan's attorney general has declared invalid a state commission's decision to interpret the law to prohibit discrimination against LGBT people.
Bill Schuette, a Republican who is running for governor, issued his opinion Friday. He says discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is not a form of sex discrimination outlawed under Michigan's 1976 civil rights law. He says only the Legislature can expand such protections.
The Civil Rights Commission in May issued an interpretative statement banning LGBT discrimination, drawing criticism from conservatives.
Schuette issued the opinion after being asked by Republican legislative leaders. Attorney general opinions are considered binding unless reversed by a court.
