TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Debate surrounding Florida’s new restrictions on gender-affirming care focused largely on transgender children. But a new law that Republican presidential candidate and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed last month also made it difficult – even impossible – for many transgender adults to get treatment.
Eli cuddles his dog on the couch at his home in Casselberry, Fla., May 29, 2023. Eli and his fiancé Lucas, both transgender men, plan to move to Minnesota with their dog and two cats later this year. The Associated Press is not using Eli’s and Lucas’ last names because they fear reprisal.
The discussions in the Legislature surrounding the ban on gender-affirming care for minors in Florida have had a significant impact on transgender individuals like Eli and Lucas, who are a couple. As trans men, they have been closely following the debates, with Democrats warning about the increased risk of suicide among trans children if the ban is implemented, and Republicans sharing misguided stories of mutilated kids. However, what caught Eli and Lucas off guard was the realization that the bill’s language would also disrupt their own lives.
Feeling blindsided by the lack of communication and discussions in their circles, Eli, aged 29, expressed the challenges they now face. The couple, like many other transgender adults in Florida, is confronted with difficult choices. They must decide whether to uproot their lives and seek access to gender-confirming care elsewhere, as the restrictive regulations in Florida make it a test case for limitations on care for adults. This situation has left individuals like Eli and Lucas, as well as clinics providing gender-affirming services, grappling with uncertainty and trying to navigate a challenging landscape.
Anti-trans bills and threats leave adults and children fearing for their safety at home
This month, Lauren Rodriguez will move out of her home in Texas, a state where she has lived for 20 years, to relocate to New Zealand. “People think we are dramatic for leaving, but when you look at what’s happened to my family, we’re not,” she says, amid packing up her life’s belongings. “It has been a total witch-hunt. It takes its toll.”
Six years ago, Rodriguez’s son Grey told her that he was transgender. That first night, she stayed up Googling “what to do when your kid tells you they’re trans”. From there, she took him to get his “first boy haircut” and contacted local LGBTQ+ organizations for advice.
Although she describes the climate against trans people then as less hostile than it has become, the news was not well received by some in their neighborhood. At the extreme, neighbors, a teacher, and even family members reported Rodriguez to Child Protection Services (CPS) for helping her son, who was then under 18, access gender-affirming medical care. Rodriguez, a social worker, has been on the receiving end of more than 10 complaints to the CPS. All cases were opened, investigated and closed.
The state representative Christian Manuel speaks as LGBTQ+ activists protest against SB14 at the Texas capitol last month. Photograph: Mikala Compton/AP
During this period, Texas was one of a number of Republican-led states where the political mood was changing. The current legislative session in Texas has seen an unprecedented number of anti-gay and anti-trans bills pass through the senate. Some restrict teaching about gender and sexuality in schools. One bill has a section that would allow anyone to criminally prosecute an individual librarian in a school for distributing “harmful material”.
Rodriguez’s story is one of many; swathes of LGBTQ+ Americans are either migrating or want to migrate due to anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in their states. The Miami Heat basketball player Dwyane Wade, who has a teenage trans daughter, recently made headlines for moving his family to California because he did not feel safe raising a child in south Florida amid mounting hostility and regressive legislation. The bill SB254, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in May 2023, would not only prohibit gender-affirming care for anyone under the age of 18 in Florida, and restrict adult access to this care, but would allow the state to temporarily remove parental custody of trans children.
These laws encourage the “financial and emotional destruction” of LGBTQ+ people, says Bob McCranie, a Texas real estate agent who runs Flee Red States, an initiative he decided to launch in 2021 after observing intimidation of LGBTQ+ friends and colleagues.
Flee Red States operates almost like a refugee organization – except that the migration is internal. People with the financial capital and flexibility to do so are fleeing political persecution in their own country.
So far he has facilitated moves to Illinois, Colorado, Connecticut, New England, New York and California, working on behalf of those looking to leave states where legislation is making life unlivable, including Texas, Missouri, Alabama, Florida, Indianapolis and Tennessee.
As more and more Red States pass hateful laws concerning LGBTQ people, more of us are packing and moving. Are you an LGBTQ person living in a Red state and looking to move to a more accepting and safer place? This video is for you! Join us as we discuss some of the best states and countries for LGBTQ people to live in. We’ll cover everything from legal protections and anti-discrimination laws to community resources and social events. Whether you’re looking for a new home or just curious about the LGBTQ scene in different parts of the world, this video has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to LGBTQ-friendly places to live!
GOP state lawmakers in red states engage in an extraordinary crackdown on transgender civil liberties this year
According to an analysis by The Washington Post, this year’s state legislative sessions in the United States have seen a record number of bills targeting LGBTQ rights, particularly transgender rights. These bills have been introduced and passed into law at a higher rate than ever before in U.S. history.
Some notable examples include Iowa’s ban on transgender female athletes from participating in high school and college sports. This law also allows cisgender female athletes to sue school districts if they fail to comply with the ban. Utah has enacted a law prohibiting transgender youth from changing their gender markers on identification cards and birth certificates. Arkansas has granted transgender adults up to 15 years to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against their doctors for gender-affirming care received during their time as minors.
These laws, along with others, are set to take effect in the coming months. In total, at least 29 bills targeting transgender rights have become law in 14 states so far this year, surpassing the previous record of 20 such bills in 12 states from last year. It’s important to note that all these bills have been signed into law by Republican governors or enacted by GOP legislatures overriding vetoes from Democratic governors.
The analysis also reveals that a total of 408 similar bills have been introduced in 45 states this year, compared to 156 bills in 35 states last year, indicating a significant increase in legislative efforts targeting transgender rights.
Protesters hold signs as they chant for and against a bill that would make Minnesota a transgender refuge state and strengthen protections for kids and their families who come to the state for gender-affirming care, in March. (Trisha Ahmed/AP)
“LGBTQ people are under fire, unlike possibly ever before and across virtually every aspect of our lives,” said Logan S. Casey, who serves as a senior researcher at Movement Advancement Project, which tracks the legislation. “This is part of a very clear and identifiable national effort in state legislatures that is and has been going on for years — and it’s really culminating this year.”
In recent times, there has been a concerning trend of states passing legislation to limit or ban gender-affirming health care for young people. This year alone, at least 12 states have enacted such restrictions, joining several others that already had similar laws in place. In Missouri, the recently announced restrictions by the state attorney general would apply to individuals of any age, further tightening the limitations.
As legislative sessions continue across the country, it is possible that more states may introduce additional restrictions on gender-affirming health care for young people. These limitations can have significant implications for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, affecting their access to necessary medical interventions and support.
However, amid this landscape, there are also states that have taken steps to protect transgender health care. Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, and Minnesota have passed bills aimed at providing legal protections, health care coverage, and access to transgender individuals. Recently, the Minnesota legislature passed a bill that extends protections to youth and parents seeking health care, as well as to the providers offering it. Governor Tim Walz, a supporter of the bill, has expressed his intention to sign it into law.
The contrasting approaches in different states reflect the ongoing debates and discussions surrounding transgender rights and access to gender-affirming care. The situation remains dynamic, with differing viewpoints and legislative actions taken across the country.
Activists and community members march into the Minnesota State Capitol building during a Trans Day of Visibility rally on March 31, 2023.
“We are going to lead on this issue,” said Walz, a second-term Democrat at an LGBTQ rights rally last week. “And I want to make note, not only do you belong here, you are needed here, you’re part of the fabric that makes Minnesota the best place in the country to live.”
Last year, California passed a similar bill, calling itself a “refuge” state for transgender youth and their families. Also this year, Oregon Democrats are proposing a constitutional amendment to protect care. Washington State and Vermont have their own protective bills.
Minnesota
The bill’s passage in Minnesota aims to protect individuals receiving or providing gender-affirming health care from out-of-state requests for child removal, extraditions, arrests, or subpoenas. Physicians and families seeking such care have expressed relief, as it ensures continued access to treatment and alleviates concerns regarding the limitations imposed by laws in other states. Some healthcare providers have already noticed an increase in prospective patients from states where options for gender-affirming care have been restricted.
“Frequently, we will talk about gender-affirming care as life-saving health care. And we’re not saying that to be dramatic,” says Dr. Angela Kade Goepferd, chief education officer and medical director of the Gender Health program at Children’s Minnesota. Kade Goepferd says kids who can’t access care “are at significantly higher risk of worse mental health outcomes, including suicidality.“
Republicans in the state legislature have opposed extending legal protections to families traveling for gender care services.
“The bill makes Minnesota a sanctuary state for so-called gender-affirming care, while simultaneously infringing on the fundamental right of parenting,” said state Rep. Peggy Scott, a Republican, last month.
Bella Mendez, 8, stands with her mother during a Trans Day of Visibility rally at the Minnesota State Capitol building on March 31, 2023.
Maryland: Broadening Medicaid coverage
The Maryland Trans Equity Act, which came into effect on January 1, 2024, represents a significant step forward in expanding access to gender-affirming treatments for individuals covered by the state’s Medicaid plan. This act aligns Medicaid coverage with what is offered by private insurers, ensuring that transgender individuals have access to essential treatments. These treatments can include procedures such as hair modifications, facial or neck alterations, and voice therapy.
By providing coverage for gender-affirming care, the Maryland Trans Equity Act aims to address disparities in healthcare access and promote equality for transgender individuals. It is estimated that around 25 additional individuals will be able to access gender-affirming treatments through the Medicaid program as a result of this act.
Research has consistently shown the positive impact of gender-affirming care on the mental health and well-being of transgender individuals. Studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and other reputable sources have demonstrated that access to gender-affirming care can help reduce rates of anxiety, depression, and other adverse psychological outcomes. By expanding coverage for these treatments, Maryland aims to support the overall health and well-being of its transgender population.
The Maryland Trans Equity Act represents a significant advancement in promoting inclusivity and equality in healthcare, ensuring that transgender individuals have access to the necessary treatments that can positively impact their lives.
Colorado: Expanded legal protections
Last week, Democratic Governor Jared Polis signed a bill into law in Colorado to provide legal protections and ensure access to reproductive healthcare and gender-affirming care for people from other states. The law aims to create a safe haven for individuals seeking services such as abortion, puberty blockers, and gender-affirming care without fear of prosecution.
Under this law, Colorado will not participate in out-of-state investigations targeting providers or recipients of abortion or gender-affirming care. This includes ignoring search warrants, arrests, subpoenas, summons, or extraditions to another state, as long as the activity took place in Colorado and there is no indication of a violation of Colorado law.
Democratic State Representative Meg Froelich, one of the main sponsors of the legislation, emphasized that the laws of other states seeking to punish providers of reproductive healthcare or gender-affirming care do not apply in Colorado.
The effort to make Colorado a safe haven for transgender individuals was initially proposed by Colorado’s only transgender state lawmaker, Democratic Representative Brianna Titone, last year. However, Democrats decided to address the issue in the current legislative session.
The bill faced extensive hearings and debates, but Republicans did not have enough votes to defeat it. Supporters of the legislation argue that it extends legal protections and expands insurance coverage to ensure access to essential healthcare services. However, there were concerns from some individuals, such as Cynthia Halversion from Colorado Springs, who testified against the bill, expressing worries about potential risks and illegitimate practices.
Overall, the new law in Colorado aims to safeguard the rights and access to reproductive healthcare and gender-affirming care for individuals from other states, while providing legal protections to providers offering these services.
Michigan: Growing the state’s Civil Rights Act
Michigan has taken steps to protect individuals based on “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” under the state’s civil rights law, known as the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. This expansion was signed into law by Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer last month.
The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act initially provided protection against discrimination based on categories such as religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status. With the recent amendment, the law now includes “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as additional protected classes.
While Michigan has not explicitly addressed the protection of gender-affirming care in its statutes, the inclusion of “gender identity” as a protected class under the civil rights law is seen as a step toward recognizing and safeguarding the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.
By expanding the protected classes, Michigan aims to provide legal protections and prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in various areas, such as employment, housing, public accommodations, and public services. This move reflects efforts to promote equality and ensure that individuals are not subjected to discrimination or unfair treatment based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“I am so proud to be here and I am excited to put our state on the right side of history,” Whitmer said as she prepared to put her signature to the bill. That move capped nearly four decades of efforts to add LGBTQ protections to state law.
The changes were adopted by the legislature’s Democratic majorities over the objections of Republicans and the Michigan Catholic Conference.
“While I fully support this original intent of the Elliott-Larsen Act and understand the importance of protecting individuals from discrimination, I also believe that it is crucial to respect the religious beliefs of small business owners and employers,” said Republican state Rep. Rachelle Smit.
But former Rep. Mel Larsen, a Republican who the original law is partially named for, says gay rights were always intended to be part of the protections.
Dana Ferguson is Minnesota Public Radio’s politics reporter, Bente Birkeland is Colorado Public Radio’s public affairs reporter, Scott Maucione is WYPR’s health reporter, Rick Pluta is Michigan Public Radio’s managing editor and state Capitol bureau chief, Colin Jackson is Michigan Public Radio’s capitol bureau reporter and Acacia Squires is NPR’s States Team editor.
In terms of LGBTQ rights and acceptance, the United States has made significant progress, but the level of LGBTQ-friendliness can vary across states. In this article, we will discuss five states that are considered the best for LGBTQ couples, taking into account factors such as anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and LGBTQ community resources.
California:
California is known for its welcoming environment for LGBTQ individuals and couples. The state legalized same-sex marriage early on and has strict anti-discrimination laws. Cities like San Francisco have vibrant LGBTQ communities and host large-scale pride events.
New York:
New York has a rich history of LGBTQ activism and a sizable LGBTQ population. The state legalized same-sex marriage in 2011 and has strong anti-discrimination laws. New York City, particularly neighborhoods like Chelsea and Greenwich Village, is known for its LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere and iconic landmarks.
Virginia:
Although not typically mentioned among LGBTQ-friendly states, Virginia has made significant progress recently. The Virginia Values Act protects LGBTQ individuals from discrimination, and the state has a growing LGBTQ community with events like Hampton Roads Pride and Virginia PrideFest.
Massachusetts:
Massachusetts holds the distinction of being the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004. It has a robust network of LGBTQ community centers, progressive anti-discrimination laws, and a vibrant LGBTQ tourism industry. Boston, in particular, has a thriving LGBTQ population.
Washington:
Washington state legalized same-sex marriage in 2012 and has enacted progressive legislation to protect LGBTQ rights. Seattle, in particular, has a strong LGBTQ community with ample resources and support services. The state is also known for its progressive politics and environmental activism.
It is important for LGBTQ couples to carefully consider their options and prioritize their needs when choosing a place to live or visit in the United States. The states mentioned above offer a welcoming environment, legal protections, vibrant LGBTQ communities, and an abundance of resources and support services.
In 2023, anti-trans bills continue to be introduced across the country. We track legislation that seeks to block trans people from receiving basic healthcare, education, legal recognition, and the right to publicly exist.
What bills are you tracking?
We strive to present the most comprehensive and up-to-date data record of anti-trans legislation in the United States. Trans Legislation Tracker also maintains an expanding archive of historical data regarding U.S. anti-trans bills.
What is happening with anti-trans legislation in 2023?
2023 marks the fourth consecutive record-breaking year for anti-trans legislation in the U.S. In just one month, the U.S. doubled the number of anti-trans bills being considered across the country from the previous year. We’ve seen familiar themes: attacks on gender-affirming care, education, athletics, birth certificates, religious discrimination, and other categories documented in our 2022 anti-trans legislation overview.
However, in 2023 we’ve seen an escalation on healthcare, as states like Kansas, Oklahoma, and South Carolina introduce bans on gender-affirming care that extend into adulthood—up to 26 years old.
In educational settings, bills like AZ HB1700 encourage parents to report and ban books which “promote gender fluidity or gender pronouns.” Others like AZ SB1001 require that both a guardian and teacher approve of a student’s pronouns.
We’ve also seen the rise of “drag bans” targeting gender non-conforming performance. Bills like AZ SB1026 use broad definitions like dressing “in clothing and makeup opposite of the performer’s […] gender at birth” and using language like “drag show targeting minors” to insinuate harmful intent. And the definitions are often broad enough to include libraries hosting story hours, musicals, or even an acting troupe performing Shakespeare.
National anti-trans legislation also surfaced in 2023. The “Women’s Bill of Rights” would erase trans recognition by the federal government, defining sex assigned at birth as an “immutable” definition of man or woman, boy or girl. The “My Child, My Choice Act” would impose educational restrictions nationally that are similar to those we’re tracking in states across the country.
Learn about anti-trans legislation
Do you want to learn about the recent history of anti-trans legislation in the United States? We maintain an overview of anti-trans data that documents the steep rise in U.S. bills targeting trans kids and adults. You can also explore our complete record of 2022 anti-trans legislation.
Our further reading recommendations curate articles exploring the language and arguments employed in these transphobic bills, as well as the organizations promoting anti-trans legislation.
We produce our own features including “What about Texas?”, which describes state-level efforts that go beyond the footprint of legislation, like Texas Governor Gregg Abbott’s recent attack on widely accepted gender-affirming care.
A group of men made anti-gay comments directed at a 44-year-old man before one of them stabbed him in the leg, police say.
A disturbing incident occurred in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood on Wednesday night, which is known as one of the city’s vibrant gay neighborhoods. A 44-year-old man was walking along a street adorned with rainbow flags when he was subjected to an anti-gay remark by a group of men. When the victim confronted the men, he was punched in the face by two of them, and another individual stabbed him in the leg. The New York City Police Department is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime.
The victim was promptly taken to a hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Meanwhile, the suspects involved in the attack are still at large, and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
Erik Bottcher, a New York City Council Member who represents Hell’s Kitchen and identifies as gay, expressed his outrage over the incident. Such acts of violence targeting individuals based on their sexual orientation are deeply concerning and emphasize the ongoing need for increased efforts to combat hate crimes and promote inclusivity and acceptance.
Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen is known as one of New York City’s most vibrant “gayborhoods.”Google Maps
“New York City is a symbol of diversity and freedom throughout the world, and Hell’s Kitchen is a haven for the LGBTQ+ community, and we will always stand up against hate of all kinds,” Bottcher said in a statement. “We will not be intimidated.”
The recent stabbing incident in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood is part of a troubling pattern of violence targeting LGBTQ individuals, establishments, and symbols in the city. These incidents have occurred in a city that is often regarded as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ rights movement.
In February, a woman set fire to a rainbow pride flag outside a Manhattan restaurant, which is also being investigated as a potential anti-LGBTQ hate crime. Last month, right-wing protesters gathered at a Drag Story Hour event held at an LGBTQ community center in Manhattan, creating a tense atmosphere.
More recently, several suspects were arraigned in connection with a series of drug-facilitated robberies that resulted in the deaths of two gay men. Many of the victims, including the deceased, were targeted near or outside gay bars in Hell’s Kitchen. While authorities suspect that the primary motive was financial gain, the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force is involved in the investigation.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges and threats faced by the LGBTQ community, even in a city known for its history of LGBTQ activism and acceptance. Efforts to address hate crimes, promote inclusivity, and ensure the safety of LGBTQ individuals and spaces remain crucial in combating such violence and discrimination.
As more and more Red States pass hateful laws concerning LGBTQ people, more of us are packing and moving. Are you an LGBTQ person living in a Red state and looking to move to a more accepting and safer place? This video is for you! Join us as we discuss some of the best states and countries for LGBTQ people to live in. We’ll cover everything from legal protections and anti-discrimination laws to community resources and social events. Whether you’re looking for a new home or just curious about the LGBTQ scene in different parts of the world, this video has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to LGBTQ-friendly places to live!
A recent study conducted by the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law has revealed alarming statistics regarding hate crimes against LGBT individuals. The study found that approximately one out of 10 violent victimizations against LGBT people are hate crimes. Furthermore, LGBT individuals are nine times more likely to be victims of violent hate crimes compared to non-LGBT individuals.
The research, which analyzed hate crime data from the 2017-2019 National Crime Victimization Survey, highlighted several key findings. LGBT victims of violent hate crimes were more likely to be younger and have a relationship with their assailant. Additionally, the study indicated that assailants in LGBT hate crimes were more likely to be white.
During the period of 2017 to 2019, the study reported that LGBT individuals experienced 6.6 violent hate crime victimizations per 1,000 people, while non-LGBT individuals experienced 0.8 victimizations per 1,000 people. The consequences of these hate crimes extended beyond the immediate incident, as LGBT victims of violent hate crimes were more likely to report difficulties in their social lives, negative emotional responses, and physical symptoms of distress.
These findings highlight the urgent need for greater awareness, prevention, and support systems to address the persistent issue of hate crimes targeting the LGBT community. It is imperative to advocate for inclusive policies, promote tolerance and acceptance, and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. The study underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to combat discrimination, promote equality, and create a safer society for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“Hate crimes have adverse physical and psychological effects on LGBT victims that are greater than the effect of similar crimes not motivated by hate,” said study author Ilan H. Meyer, Distinguished Senior Scholar of Public Policy at the Williams Institute. “These findings highlight the importance of developing and strengthening federal, state, and local interventions to protect LGBT people from victimization and providing support and services to mitigate the ill effects of hate crime victimization.”
The report, “Hate crimes against LGBT people: National Crime Victimization Survey, 2017-2019” appears in PLOS ONE and is co-authored by Andrew R. Flores, Ph.D., Rebecca L. Stotzer, Ph.D., Ilan Meyer, Ph.D., and Lynn L. Langton, Ph.D.
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