Kentucky Republicans override governor's veto to enact draconian anti-trans law

Kentucky Republicans override governor's veto to enact draconian anti-trans law
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The Republican-dominated Kentucky State Senate and House of Representatives on Wednesday overrode Democratic Governor Andy Beshear's veto of Senate Bill 150, enacting its draconian anti-transgender provisions into law.

According to USA Today, SB 150, which is set to take effect in June:

  • "Prohibits conversations around sexual orientation or gender identity in school for students of all grades.
  • Requires school districts to forbid trans students from using the bathroom tied to their gender identities.
  • Allows teachers to refuse to use a student’s preferred pronouns.
  • Bans all gender-affirming medical care for trans youth.
  • Requires doctors to de-transition minors in their care if they’re using any of the restricted treatment options."
The American Civil Liberties Union quickly condemned SB150 as an imminent danger to LGTBQ Kentuckians in a statement reported by NBC News 18 in Lexington:

SB 150 was rushed through the legislature in a deliberately secretive process at the 11th hour. Trans Kentuckians, medical and mental health professionals, and accredited professional associations pleaded with lawmakers to listen to the experts, not harmful rhetoric based in fear and hate. Their pleas fell on deaf ears as the general assembly passed the bill in a matter of hours.

While an 'emergency' clause was applied to some sections of the bill, the health care ban provisions will not go into effect until late June -- 90 days after the legislature adjourns. Trans youth can still receive care until that portion of the bill takes effect. And we intend to take this fight to the courts to make sure Kentuckians’ right to that care will continue.

To all the trans youth who may be affected by this legislation: we stand by you, and we will not stop fighting. You are cherished. You are loved. You belong.

To the commonwealth: we will see you in court.

READ MORE: Minnesota GOP Sen. claims abortion leads to domestic violence and 'Satan is going after' trans kids

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside of the state capitol to protest SB150, which is certain to face numerous legal challenges.

USA Today's full article is available here. NBC's is here.

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