Chris Christie isn't the most popular guy in New Jersey, but the Garden State governor just did trans youth a solid: On Friday: Christie signed into law a bill that requires the state to draft guidelines to address the needs of transgender students and establish policies that "ensure a supportive and nondiscriminatory environment."

Effective immediately, New Jersey schools are prohibited from forcing trans students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that don't match their gender identity. They also must address students by the names and pronouns they prefer.

Reports NJ.com:

In addition, the law tells schools they must allow students to dress according to their gender identity, create confidentiality plans to make sure employees do not disclose a student's transgender or transition status, issues school documents and identification cards to make the student's gender identity, and let students take part in gym class with the gender that matches their identity.

While the bill stopped short of requiring schools to let trans kids use facilities that match their gender identity, they must provide "reasonable alternative arrangements if needed, to ensure a student's safety and comfort."

It passed the state Senate last month 25-10 and the Assembly 59-15, with three abstentions.

"All of our children deserve to be treated with respect and dignity," said State Sen. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex), a sponsor of the bill, "and that means having the regulatory framework in place to be sure that our schools are safe places and have supportive environments for all students."

Back in March, Christie indicated he felt it was up to individual school districts to decide their policies on transgender students. It's not clear why he changed his mind, but he could definitely use some good will.

The governor's family enjoyed Island Beach State Park over July 4 even though it was closed to the public during a government shutdown. Christie has also been criticized for backing Donald Trump's presidential campaign and his possible involvement in shutting down access to the George Washington Bridge to punish Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich for not supporting his 2013 gubernatorial bid.

On Friday, Christie also signed a measure that bars health insurance companies and Medicaid from discriminating based on gender identity.