New Hampshire passes historic bill protecting transgender rights
New Hampshire has made history for becoming the first Republican-controlled state to protect transgender rights
New Hampshire has become the first Republican-controlled state to pass a bill introducing rights protections for transgender people.
House Bill 1319 updates the state’s anti-discrimination laws on employment, housing and public space by adding gender identity, meaning transgender people cannot be discriminated against.
The bill passed through the first legislative house by 195 to 129 and passed through the second house by 14 to 10.
According to reports, 47 Republicans voted in favour of the bill alongside 145 Democrats and 3 Libertarians. Meanwhile, 129 Republicans voted against the bill.
A spokesperson for Chris Sununu, the state’s governor, confirmed that he plans on signing the bill and is expected to do so in the coming weeks.
Linds Jakows, the campaign manager of Freedom New Hampshire, the campaign working to pass the bill, told The Human Rights Campaign: “Today, New Hampshire lawmakers showed tremendous leadership in support of the transgender community and their loved ones.
“This law will go a long way to affirm the dignity of transgender people and allow them to truly live free.”
New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu
“I want to especially thank my fellow transgender Granite Staters for their bravery and courage over the last few years – this victory would not have been possible without the voices of transgender people who have been telling their stories and educating lawmakers about the urgent need to make sure all Granite Staters are fully protected under the law.”
“We look forward to the day Governor Sununu seals New Hampshire’s motto of Live Free or Die with his signature.”
The news comes after Kansas and Oklahoma introduced a new bill making it harder for LGBT people to adopt. Meanwhile, Hawaii has been working to ban conversion therapy for minors.