SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union is expanding its staff ahead of expected legislative debates on transgender and women's issues.

The Argus Leader (http://argusne.ws/1SotcgQ ) reports the organization has added two new positions, bringing its staff to five. One of the staff members will be a full-time lobbyist who will be in Pierre during the legislative session.

Communications associate Jennifer Peterson says it is "natural" for a civil rights group to expand its efforts in South Dakota "based on the number of terrible, discriminatory bills that have already been proposed this year."

One of the bills the organization intends to fight against would govern bathroom use for transgender students. The bill would require schools to establish bathroom, locker room and shower facilities based on students' biological sex.