This blog originally appeared at Advocate.

In Maine, a bill aimed at ensuring security for individuals seeking gender-affirming care sparked significant controversy online, leading lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to abandon the measure.

The Maine Legislature’s Judiciary Committee rejected a proposal following online backlash from right-wing extremists who discovered the bill. Far-right influencers, including Libs of TikTok, singled out lawmakers involved in the legislation, contributing to the decision against it.

LD 1735, a proposed measure designed to protect gender-affirming care for transgender individuals, including minors, faced a pivotal moment on Thursday as the decision reflects a significant shift in the state’s stance on transgender rights and healthcare.

Initially championed by Democratic Rep. Laurie Osher of Orono, LD 1735 enjoyed support from various advocacy groups, including the Maine Nurse Practitioner Association, the Maine Psychological Association, the National Association of Social Workers, as reported by the Maine Beacon. The bill’s primary aim was to shield Maine from collaboration with law enforcement in states where gender-affirming care is prohibited. Specifically, in instances where individuals sought such treatment in Maine and authorities from other states attempted to intervene, the bill sought to relieve Maine from any obligation to assist them.

This legislation held significant importance for advocates of transgender rights during this session. It was perceived as an extension of the legislative advancements made last year, which granted 16- and 17-year-olds in Maine access to gender-affirming care without requiring parental consent or notification, aligning with the state’s laws on abortion and contraception for minors.

Related: Maine’s bill on transgender healthcare triggers a right-wing uproar, fueled by unfounded concerns about phantom kidnappings.

Nevertheless, notable opposition arose, particularly from Republican lawmakers, as reported.

The discourse surrounding the bill appeared to be shaped by a social media campaign spearheaded by Chaya Raichik, the operator of the Libs of TikTok account. On January 16, Raichik mobilized her 2.8 million followers to actively oppose the proposed legislation. Subsequently, on Wednesday, she issued another plea.

“BREAKING: The Maine legislature is set to vote tomorrow on the trans minor sanctuary bill. Following public backlash, the vote has been rescheduled for January 25th, which is tomorrow. Ensure to send emails to all state legislators TODAY. Find their email addresses in the tweet below,” urged Libs of TikTok, providing a list of lawmaker email addresses.

In response to this rallying cry, the Judiciary Committee voted unanimously with a 12-0 decision (one member was absent), putting a halt to the bill’s advancement after a brief period of deliberation.

Led by Democrats Sen. Anne Carney and Rep. Matt Moonen, the Judiciary Committee, in an unusual display of unity cutting across party lines, unanimously rejected the bill. Democrats, who had previously endorsed the legislation, pointed to the inclusion of unnecessary language as a primary factor influencing their shift in stance.

Republicans contended that in its current state, LD 1735 could potentially encourage child trafficking—an assertion stemming from online conspiracy theories propagated by conservative influencers—and undermine parental rights. Within its provisions, the bill sought to prevent the enforcement of orders from other states that might sanction the separation of a child from their parent or guardian based on the receipt of gender-affirming health care or mental health care.

The Advocate reached out to Osher for comment but did not receive a response.

The committee’s unanimous dismissal of LD 1735 represents a substantial setback for providers of gender-affirming care and advocates for transgender rights in Maine.