On Wednesday, the North Carolina Legislature overruled Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper‘s vetoes, passing three bills that target transgender rights and classroom instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity.
What Happened: The Legislature approved House Bill 808, which prohibits medical professionals in North Carolina from providing puberty blockers, hormones, and surgeries to transgender minors, reported The Hill.
However, those who started their treatment before August 1 can continue with parental consent. The legislation, effective immediately, also restricts state funds from supporting government health plans that offer gender transition procedures and treatments to minors.
The North Carolina House, which gained a veto-proof majority in April after state Rep. Tricia Cotham (R) switched parties, voted 74-45 to override Cooper’s veto. The Senate followed suit with a 27-18 vote, making North Carolina the 22nd state to enact such a ban and the 19th this year.
Additionally, the Legislature overruled Cooper’s veto of House Bill 574, barring transgender women and girls from middle school through college from participating in female sports teams. Republicans defended the bill, claiming it preserves the integrity of women’s sports.
In contrast, Democrats labeled it as “targeted abuse” against transgender youth. State Democratic Rep. Marcia Morey, a former Olympic swimmer, criticized the bill, emphasizing that sports governing bodies, not politicians, should handle such matters.
The Legislature also overrode Cooper’s veto of the Parents' Bill of Rights, which restricts K-4 teachers from discussing gender identity or sexuality in classrooms. This move comes after North Carolina’s controversial 2016 “bathroom bill,” which faced nationwide backlash and potential economic repercussions.
See Also: Disney Heir Comes Out As Transgender, Faults Legislation Aimed At Trans Youth
Why It Matters: The recent legislative actions reflect a broader national debate on transgender rights. Similar bills have been introduced in other states, sparking both support and criticism.
The decisions in North Carolina, especially following the contentious “bathroom bill” episode, indicate a renewed focus on LGBTQ+ issues in the state’s political landscape.
Photo Courtesy: Sean Pavone On Shutterstock.com
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