Lambda Legal Condemns New Laws Targeting Transgender Arizonans

Following Arizona Governor Doug Ducey’s decision to sign into law two bills that deny transgender youth access to life-saving medical care and prohibit their participation in sports consistent with their gender identity, Tucson-based Lambda Legal Staff Attorney Kell Olson issued the following statement:

“Governor Ducey framed this decision as ‘common sense.’ It’s anything but. These bills will make life harder for transgender kids across Arizona who should have the opportunity to grow up feeling loved and respected for who they are. The Governor offered platitudes about treating transgender people with ‘dignity, respect, and kindness,’ while signing legislation that ignores the very real concerns of the transgender youth who came to the legislature to share their stories and the horrific impact these new laws will have on their lives and mental health. That’s not treating people with ‘dignity, respect, or kindness.’ It’s just plain wrong.”

“The Governor could have used his office to create an honest dialogue about these issues. Instead, he’s following the lead of fringe politicians across the country who are rushing to pass new laws to make life more difficult for transgender people in order to score political points. Arizona can do better.”