A day after issuing a contentious veto that was condemned by advocates, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed three legislation on Saturday that will strengthen the state's protections for LGBTQ individuals.
LGBTQ and Teens
Among the new laws is legislation aimed at assisting LGBTQ adolescents, as reported by NBC News.
One statute establishes deadlines for public school teachers and staff to complete cultural competence training, and another establishes an advisory task team to identify the needs of LGBTQ children and encourage supporting policies.
Thirdly, regardless of a child's sexual orientation or gender identity, families must demonstrate that they can and are willing to meet their needs.
The governor also approved a bill requiring at least one gender-neutral restroom accessible to kids in first through 12th-grade schools by 2026.
The Southern California school district that implemented a policy mandating schools to notify parents when their students alter their pronouns or use a toilet that is not designated for their gender according to their official documents served as the impetus for the law.
After California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Chino Valley Unified School District, a judge put a stop to the policy. The case is still pending.
According to Newsom, current legislation already obliges courts to take into account a child's health, safety, and welfare when assessing what is in his or her best interests in custody disputes, including the parent's acceptance of the child's gender identity.
The veto comes amid heated political battles over transgender rights across the nation, including attempts to outlaw gender-affirming care, ban trans athletes from participating in girls' and women's sports, and mandate that schools notify parents if their children request to use different pronouns or change their gender identity.
Other LGBTQ Bills in California
California continues to lead the way in LGBTQ rights by enacting a series of landmark laws aimed at promoting inclusivity, equality, and protection for the LGBTQ community.
The state has taken a firm stance against the harmful practice of conversion therapy. Assembly Bill 493, signed into law, explicitly prohibits any therapy or counseling that seeks to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity. The ban serves as a critical step in protecting LGBTQ youth from psychological harm.
Senate Bill 173, another groundbreaking legislation, mandates that all single-user restrooms in public facilities, businesses, and government buildings must be labeled as gender-neutral. This measure ensures that transgender and non-binary individuals have access to safe and inclusive restroom facilities.
The state recognizes the importance of fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all its residents, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. With these legislative measures, California reaffirms its commitment to the LGBTQ community and serves as a model for other states seeking to advance LGBTQ rights and protections.
