Porn site xHamster blocks users in North Carolina

  • Published
A woman in bed looking frustrated by her computerImage source, Thinkstock

Some people in North Carolina are finding it a little more difficult to get their porn fix.

It's since the US state passed laws which have been accused of discriminating against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

In response stars have cancelled gigs, a TV company has relocated to Canada and Paypal won't be opening any operations centre there.

Facebook, Google, Apple and Microsoft say they aren't happy either.

Opponents of House Bill 2 protest across the street from the North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh, North CarolinaImage source, AP
Image caption,

The law has sparked several protests outside the state capitol in Raleigh

The "bathroom bill" forces people to use public toilets based on the sex they are on their birth certificates - something that is particularly sensitive for transgender people. It also removed some protections against discrimination for LGBT people.

Alexander Hawkins from xHamster says, "Our goal is to fight for the equality for everyone and we will stand our ground. Everybody has a right to their own sexuality and xHamster is there to love and support people the way they are".

Alexander explained why they oppose the law on the website.

"Respecting others sexuality may not come easy, but this is something we must all work together to address.

"Porn can't be blamed for everything, as well as the LGBT community. This was the reason behind the access restriction to our website in the state of North Carolina."

North Carolina's governor has now said he wants to make changes to the law, although the rules on public toilets won't change.

"I am taking action to affirm and improve the state's commitment to privacy and equality" he said.

Even so, Bruce Springsteen and Ringo Starr feel so strongly they've cancelled their gigs.

Who is still going to North Carolina?

Mumford and sons on stage
Image caption,

Mumford and Sons are playing Charlotte, NC

Mumford and Sons are playing there, but that's not because they're happy with the law.

They will be donating profits from the gig to a local charity for LGBT people.

Mumford and Sons Facebook post - they say they will donate profits from their show to a LGBTQ organisationImage source, Facebook
Image caption,

The band posted this on Wednesday night, ahead of their concert

The singer of punk band Against Me is trans, but Laura Jane Grace wants to play there in protest.

Laura Jane Grace tweeted: "I'm even more eager to play in NC 'cause of the bill!", external

Justin Bieber and Beyonce are both set to perform there over the next few months.

Find us on Instagram at BBCNewsbeat, external and follow us on Snapchat, search for bbc_newsbeat