In a massive win for LGBTQ+ rights, California has introduced a new law offering legal refuge for trans youth fleeing conservative states.
Over the last couple of years, Republican officials have consistently attacked trans youth with harmful legislation.
From the numerous sports bans to the archaic bills banning lifesaving healthcare, conservative lawmakers have dedicated their time and resources to strip the rights of trans individuals.
In response to the growing number of anti-trans legislation, Governor Newsom has introduced a new law that effectively makes the liberal state a safe haven for trans youth.
On 30 September, the Democratic official signed the inclusive Senate Bill 107 into law – which was first introduced by Senator Scott Wiener.
Under the legislation, families of trans youth refugees would be protected from out-of-state subpoenas if it “relates to efforts to criminalise individuals or remove children from their homes for having received gender-affirming care.”
The law will also label out-of-state criminal arrest warrant’s related to gender-affirming care as the “lowest priority for law enforcement in California.”
Lastly, SB 107 will also give California courts the authority to make an initial child custody determination if the child is in the state for gender-affirming healthcare (per ABC News.)
“As so many states work to erase trans kids and criminalise their families, California must always have their backs,” Wiener said in a statement on his website.
“With SB 107 signed into law, California is forcefully pushing back against the anti-LGBTQ hatred spreading across parts of our nation. The rainbow wave is real, and it’s coming. Thank you, Governor Newsom, for standing with our community.”
BIG NEWS: @GavinNewsom signed into law our bill (SB 107) to offer refuge to trans kids & their families if they’re being criminalized in their home states.
States like Texas & Alabama are seeking to tear these families apart. California won’t be party to it. We have your backs. pic.twitter.com/cbQsmhatip
— Senator Scott Wiener (@Scott_Wiener) September 30, 2022
Governor Newsom echoed similar sentiments in his own written statement supporting the law.
“In California, we believe in equality and acceptance. We believe that no one should be prosecuted or persecuted for getting the care they need – including gender-affirming care,” he explained.
“Parents know what’s best for their kids, and they should be able to make decisions around the health of their children without fear. We must take a stand for parental choice. That is precisely why I am signing Senate Bill 107.”
California’s inclusive law was partially created to combat Republican officials like Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Back in February, the anti-trans politician introduced harmful directives ordering the state’s Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to investigate parents of trans youth.
“Because the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting children from abuse, I hereby direct your agency to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas,” he wrote.
Even though the anti-trans order is not legally binding, the DFPS has conducted numerous investigations – which has resulted in lawsuits from the families of trans youth, medical professionals and LGBTQ+ organisations.
California’s Senate Bill 107 will be going into effect on 1 January 2023.
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