New Futures' Statement on Signing of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills
On July 19, Gov. Chris Sununu signed three discriminatory, anti-LGBTQ+ bills into law. Once implemented, these laws will ban transgender girls from playing sports (HB 1205), prohibit doctors from providing referrals for gender-affirming surgery (HB 619), and require teachers to provide a two-week notice to parents on materials and coursework containing references to sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and gender expression (HB 1312).
Gov. Sununu also vetoed HB 396, which would have allowed schools and businesses to discriminate against transgender individuals by regulating which bathrooms they can use. This bill would have overturned protections granted in 2018’s anti-discrimination bill, which Gov. Sununu signed into law.
In response, Emma Sevigny, Children’s Behavioral Health Coordinator at New Futures, New Hampshire’s leading health policy and advocacy organization, issued the following statement:
“New Futures is disappointed that Governor Sununu chose to sign three of the four discriminatory bills that reached his desk today. Signing HB 1205, HB 619, and HB 1312 into law will have devastating impacts on LGBTQ+ youth in our state. Evidence shows that young people have the best chance to thrive when supported at home, in school, and in their communities.
LGBTQ+ youth are welcomed and loved in New Hampshire, despite the actions of a vocal minority of the state. We encourage young people impacted by these life-changing pieces of legislation to seek support from family, friends, and mental healthcare providers as they navigate the emotions caused by the Governor’s decision today.”
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally following the Governor’s signing, please reach out for support:
- National Crisis Lifeline: Dial or text 988
- Trevor Project 24/7 Hotline: 866-488-7386 or Text: 678678
- NAMI New Hampshire Information & Resource Line: 1-800-242-6264 or info@naminh.org
- Seacoast Outright: seacoastoutright.org/resources
