TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Senate Republicans watered down a controversial bill Tuesday that would’ve required bathroom users to use restrooms that correspond with their biological sex.

The proposal (SB 1674) now applies only to state-owned or operated facilities — like universities, prisons, and the Florida Capitol. The legislation originally included private businesses, like grocery stores and gas stations.

“It’s our job to protect their dignity, their privacy (and) their safety, especially when they’re at their most vulnerable state — when their pants are down, and shirts are off,” said Brevard County teacher Matthew Woodside, who spoke before the committee.

Hundreds of protesters, meanwhile, rallied outside the Capitol as lawmakers debated the legislation. Some consider the proposal a cruel political stunt designed to propel Gov. Ron DeSantis’ presidential ambitions.

Tampa resident LaDiamond Haze, who uses they/them pronouns, attended the rally. Haze said rally-goers traveled to Tallahassee to spread a message of love to critics and supporters alike.

“We’re here to make a change today and do all that we can to bring awareness that drag and the LGBTQIA+ community must be protected and must not be denounced or hated,” they said.

Rally-goers are taking issue with other proposals, too, including one restricting gender treatment for transgender minors. Another proposal would punish venues that allow minors to attend adult live performances, like drag shows.

The Senate Fiscal Policy advanced the bathroom bill with a party-line vote. The measure now awaits a final Senate vote.