The ACLU of Georgia and many other LGBTQ+ allies were at the Capitol today when the Senate discussed and ultimately passed Senate Bill 140, the current version of which includes a harmful amendment adding harsh penalties for doctors who provide gender-affirming care to youth.
Despite the heartbreaking outcome, everyone in opposition agreed to stand firm and keep pressure on Gov. Brian Kemp to veto the deadly piece of legislation. Shortly after its passage, which was meant with tears and hugs of grief, we issued a press release to the media stating our attorneys are ready to sue the state if the bill is signed into law by the governor.
SB 140 bans medical professionals from giving transgender children certain hormones or surgical treatment that assists them in aligning with their gender identity. The Senate’s vote today centered on the amendment adding harsher penalties for medical professionals who provide such care, and the senators’ vote has sent the bill to the governor’s desk.
Thank you to all allies who showed up to speak out. Let us reiterate: Republican lawmakers pushed this bill through while ignoring the warnings of parents, medical providers, and transgender youth themselves.
Below are more images from today.
