The state’s law governing transgender children and schools could be repealed, according to a bill introduced on Thursday by two Kentucky lawmakers in FRANKFORT (WXIX).
House Bill 376 was filed by Reps. Sarah Stalker (D-Louisiana) and Adrielle Camuel, D-Lynton, to improve the “caring LGBTQ+ environment” for students in Kentucky public schools, according to a press release.
According to Rep. Stalker, “I am filing this reform for Fischer Wells and for every other young trans person in Kentucky, including those who are unable to show people who they really are. No child should be required to defend their identity in addition to their fundamental rights. However, a law that deprives parents, trusted community doctors, and mental health professionals of their children’s healthcare decisions is blatantly excessive on the part of the state government.
The laws passed after Senate Bill 150’s passing in 2023, which forbids transgender minors from receiving gender-affirming care. Additionally, it enables teachers to use a trans student’s non-preferred pronouns and mandates that they inform their parents of any differences in the student’s identity or sexual orientation.
H.B. 376 would repeal some of these rules, but a few provisions would also be added:
- There will be a way for parents to opt their child out of the training in addition to notifying them that sexual material is being taught in the classroom.
- If a student identifies themselves differently than their gender, teachers and the school district won’t be required to inform parents, etc.
- Students will be able to ask the principal of the school to apply their pronouns.
- When it comes to facilities, locker rooms, etc., the school will make accommodations for a student or students whose gender identity differs from their birth gender. This could involve using a single-stall restroom or one of the teacher’s facilities, etc.
Rep. Camuel stated, “Our sole objective is to repeal laws that perpetuate harm and impede the advancement of individuals based on their identity and relationships. We are committed and united in an effort to advance equality and justice for all.”
Proponents of S.B. 150 argue that the laws protect children from taking a harmful course. Sen. Lindsey Tichenor (R-Smithfield) stated in March 2023 that she supported the current law because she was also keeping an eye on studies being conducted outside of Europe.
House Bill 68, a piece of policy that is comparable to S.B. 150, was formally passed by Ohio on Wednesday. The main topic of discussion has been whether or not the government should be involved in making decisions of this nature or if it should fall to the parents.
H.B. 376 in Kentucky is expected to be heard at some point during the parliamentary session, which ends on April 15.
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