Urgent Action on Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills in State Legislatures as Year Ends

A Surge in Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation as the Year Winds Down

As 2023 nears its end, state legislatures across the United States are swiftly pushing through a slew of anti-LGBTQ+ bills, raising alarms in the community and among advocates. Ohio's recent passage of HB 68, the Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act, is a striking example. This bill, which now awaits Governor Mike DeWine's signature, would prohibit gender-affirming care for transgender youth and bar trans student athletes from sports participation.

A Challenging Year for LGBTQ+ Rights

This year has been particularly daunting for LGBTQ+ rights, with a record-breaking number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills surfacing at state levels. The Human Rights Campaign has highlighted this alarming trend, noting nearly 600 anti-trans bills proposed, with 85 like Alabama's HB261 and North Carolina's H808 successfully passing. These bills range from banning trans athletes at the college level to prohibiting gender-affirming care for trans minors.

National State of Emergency for LGBTQ+ Community

In June, the Human Rights Campaign's president, Kelley Robinson, declared a national state of emergency for the LGBTQ+ community. She criticized political action groups and lawmakers, particularly noting the involvement of anti-LGBTQ+ Republican establishment and extremist groups like the Alliance Defending Freedom, Heritage Foundation, and the Family Policy Alliance.

Mixed Outcomes in Legislative Battles

While numerous bills have either passed or are progressing, many have also failed. The American Civil Liberties Union has been tracking over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills this year, with 227 being defeated or not reaching a final vote. Notable examples include Missouri's SB 693, an anti-drag bill, and Wisconsin's ban on gender-affirming care, which was vetoed by Governor Tony Evers.

Looking Forward to 2024: A Continued Fight

The upcoming year might see carry-over bills from 2023 and renewed efforts by state lawmakers. In Missouri, for instance, Republican legislators have pre-filed 20 anti-LGBTQ+ bills, including HB 1405, which would restrict school employees from using pronouns not aligning with a student's biological sex at birth, and HB 1650, an anti-drag law.

Public Opinion and Legislative Divides

Despite increasing public support for LGBTQ+ people, same-sex marriage, and nondiscrimination policies, America remains divided on issues such as parental rights, LGBTQ+ inclusion in classrooms, and gender-affirming care.

Staying Informed and Advocacy Resources

For those wanting to stay updated on anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and to understand how these bills are progressing through various states, resources like the Movement Advancement Project, ACLU, and Trans Legislation Tracker are invaluable. Additionally, Prosperity Now offers guidance for those seeking to advocate against these legislative measures.

A Call to Action

This surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation underscores the need for vigilance and action within the community and among allies. Staying informed, supporting advocacy groups, and participating in the political process are crucial steps in pushing back against these discriminatory bills. As we look ahead, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights continues, demanding our collective effort and resilience.