Legislation targeting transgender youth is sweeping the nation, even intensifying during Pride Month. From bans on pronoun use to restrictions on gender-affirming care, the impact is profound. As these laws proliferate, the fight for transgender rights faces unprecedented challenges.
Transgender Youth Protections Rolled Back Nationwide
In the last three years, a wave of legislation has rolled back protections for transgender youth across the country. This Pride Month alone saw three states passing such bills, two courts upholding them, and more potential laws introduced.
Record Number of Anti-LGBT+ Bills in 2023
A staggering 510 anti-LGBT+ bills were introduced by state legislators in 2023, the highest number ever recorded. This year, the American Civil Liberties Union is tracking a record-breaking 573 bills.
Persistent Legislative Push Despite Pride Month
At least 40 anti-LGBT+ bills have passed so far this year. This legislative push continued unabated in June, despite the month being dedicated to celebrating and advocating for the LGBT+ community.
Restrictions on Transgender Youth
The most common legislation this month included bills preventing trans youth from using their preferred pronouns or names, accessing bathrooms consistent with their gender identity, joining sports teams that align with their gender, or seeking gender-affirming medical care.
Overview of Recent Anti-LGBT+ Legislation
Several anti-LGBT+ pieces of legislation were introduced, passed, or upheld during Pride 2024. These bills highlight the ongoing legislative challenges faced by the LGBT+ community.
Louisiana Enacts Transgender Athlete Ban
On June 3, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed a transgender athlete ban into law. This made Louisiana the 18th state to enact such a ban.
Delaware Introduces Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
State Senators in Delaware introduced a ban on gender-affirming medical care for minors on June 6. The bill was referred to a committee for further consideration.
Arizona’s Detransition Procedures Bill Vetoed
The Arizona state legislature passed a bill on June 12 requiring health insurance plans to cover detransition procedures if they cover gender-affirming procedures. Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed the bill.
Federal Judge Blocks New Title IX Rules
A federal judge blocked President Joe Biden’s new Title IX rules from going into effect in six states on June 17. These rules would have protected transgender students from discrimination.
Louisiana Enacts “Given Name Act”
On June 19, Louisiana passed the “Given Name Act” into law. This legislation mandates that teachers and schools use a student’s birth name and pronouns aligning with their sex.
Pennsylvania Legislators Propose Gender-Affirming Care Ban
On June 20, members of the Pennsylvania legislature introduced a ban on gender-affirming care for minors. The bill has been referred to a committee for further consideration.
Utah Blocks Compliance with Federal Title IX Protections
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed a bill on June 21 prohibiting government officers from complying with new federal Title IX measures. These measures are designed to protect transgender students.
Transgender Athlete Ban in Nassau County
On June 24, Nassau County on Long Island, New York, passed a ban on transgender athletes. This legislation restricts transgender students from participating in sports teams that align with their gender identity.
