Opinion Roundup, July 12, 2016: HB2 -- Lies, truth and responsibility

Berger doesn't let facts stop his HB2 fantasies (Fayetteville Observer) - Phil Berger ought to be ashamed. But we doubt that he is. Playing to people's worst fears and prejudices is working out pretty well for him. Why stop now?

Berger still spreading HB2 Bathroom Myth (Charlotte Observer) -- N.C. Senate leader still spreading lies about bathroom rights; City ordinance never said any man can use women’s restrooms; Welcome TSA changes speeding lines at airport.

Can state leaders really lack their own analysis of HB2 costs? Yep! (Winston-Salem Journal column) -- Supporters of House Bill 2, the discriminatory “bathroom bill” rapidly signed into law in March, are quick to say critics’ estimates of how much the action could ultimately cost — almost $5 billion by one study — are way too high. In such arguments, it’s customary to come back with your own fully detailed estimates. But the state doesn’t seem to have any. Once again, the emperor is naked.

Welcome inaction (Greensboro News & Record) -- Legislators missed chances to do good things, such as repealing House Bill 2, in their recently concluded short session. The negative consequences will continue to add up.

N.C. GOP lawmakers flee from responsibility (Norfolk Virginian-Pilot) -- The recently concluded session of the N.C. General Assembly eradicated any hope that Republican leaders care more about the state’s economic health than demonizing Tar Heels and campaigning for office.