Wisconsin Republicans approve bills targeting transgender youth

The Wisconsin Assembly passed four bills on Thursday that target transgender youth. These bills, which received no backing from Democratic representatives, focus on issues like sports participation and gender-affirming care. Governor Tony Evers has stated he will veto the bills, similar to his actions in past sessions. The proposed legislation includes a ban on trans girls using girls' locker rooms and competing on girls' sports teams in schools and colleges. It also requires teachers to use names and pronouns designated by students' parents and prevents doctors from providing transition care to minors. The decisions have sparked significant debate, as Democrats oppose the measures and argue they are harmful. Supporters of the bills believe they reflect public opinion, citing a recent Pew Research Center study that indicates many Americans favor restrictions on transgender athletes and gender care. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos expressed hope that public pressure might sway Governor Evers to change his position. Opponents have gathered to voice their concerns. Many took part in public hearings, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to listen to their testimonies. Democratic Rep. Ryan Clancy, who has a transgender child, urged lawmakers to acknowledge the impact of their votes and described the bills as acts of cowardice or hatred. Despite the testimony from transgender people and their allies, Republican leaders dismissed the opposition as a minority viewpoint. They maintain that their votes reflect the majority stance of Wisconsinites.