Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill to remove gender identity protections from the state’s civil rights code, stating it aligns with federal law and strengthens protections for women and girls. The bill, which would be the first in the U.S. to remove nondiscrimination protections for gender identity, was quickly approved by the state Senate and House, facing opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates. The bill, if signed by Reynolds, would go into effect on July 1. The move comes as other states are considering similar legislation following an executive order from former President Trump. LGBTQ+ advocates and Democrats spoke out against the bill, arguing that it discriminates against transgender people and erases their existence in public life.
Despite protests and emotional testimonies, the bill passed with little bipartisan support. The legislation aims to define gender as a binary concept based on biological sex at birth, removing protections for transgender individuals in various aspects of life. Reynolds, who previously signed policies banning transgender student participation in sports and public bathroom access, has not indicated whether she will sign the bill. The issue has sparked heated debates in Iowa’s legislature, with both supporters and opponents voicing strong opinions on the matter. LGBTQ+ advocates continue to fight against discriminatory legislation, while Republican-led legislatures seek to implement policies that align with traditional views on gender and sex.
