Commentary
The bill prohibits public school officials from sharing any information regarding a student’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression without the student’s consent, unless required by law. This means that while parents are notified for minor issues like administering aspirin, they would not be informed if their child is considering “trans” hormones or surgery under AB 1955.
Despite its misleading title as the SAFETY Act, AB 1955 could have serious implications for students’ futures, especially if they undergo irreversible procedures like puberty blockers or surgeries that may impact their ability to become parents later in life if they choose to detransition.
The bill specifically targets local school boards’ ability to mandate parental notification of significant changes or mental distress related to a student’s identity.
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American College of Physicians Rejects Puberty Blockers
The American College of Pediatricians states that “Transgender Interventions Harm Children: No Evidence that Transgender Interventions are Safe for Children.” It emphasizes the lack of long-term studies on the safety or efficacy of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries for transgender-believing youth. This experimental nature raises concerns about informed consent and long-term effects, including potential emotional disturbances and serious side effects.
Parental Groups Oppose AB 1955
Lance Christensen, vice president of education policy and government affairs at the California Policy Center (CPC), expressed opposition to AB 1955, citing violations of the 14th Amendment and concerns about parental rights and equal protection under the law.
Mr. Christensen indicated that legal action may be taken against the state if AB 1955 is enacted.
Will the Governor Sign It?
The fate of AB 1955 rests on Governor Gavin Newsom, who may choose not to sign the bill due to its controversial nature and potential repercussions on his political career. The bill’s passage in the state Assembly raises questions about its future.
At the upcoming Education Committee hearing on May 29, parents are expected to gather in opposition to AB 1955, potentially leading to some tense moments inside or outside the Capitol with LGBTQ groups supporting the bill. The current state of America, as evidenced by recent campus protests, is volatile. If Mr. Newsom opposes the bill, he may present it as a way to calm tensions.
There appears to be a shift in attitudes against “trans” ideology, as seen in a recent report from the Daily Mail about the UK’s National Health Service making changes to prioritize biological sex over gender. This move has been welcomed by women’s rights activists who have criticized the influence of “gender ideology.”
If AB 1955 is passed by the Legislature, it could signal California’s embrace of a fleeting political trend, similar to the mandate for 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. However, the growing emphasis on biological sex over gender identity suggests a shift towards a more realistic approach to “trans” issues.
Please note that the views expressed in this article are the author’s opinions and may not necessarily align with those of The Epoch Times.
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