(DailyChive.com) – Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signs controversial bill defining gender terms, sparking debate on transgender rights.
At a Glance
- Alabama House passes SB 79, known as the “What is a Woman Act,” with a 77-12 vote
- Bill defines “sex” as male or female based on reproductive system function observed at birth
- Gov. Kay Ivey expected to sign the bill into law
- Critics argue the bill targets transgender and intersex individuals
- ACLU opposes the legislation, citing threats to civil liberties
Alabama’s New Gender Classification Bill
Alabama’s legislature has passed a controversial bill that defines gender-related terms, sparking intense debate about transgender rights and identity. The Alabama House approved SB 79, known as the “What is a Woman Act,” with a 77-12 vote. The bill, introduced by state Rep. Susan DuBose and Sen. April Weaver, provides definitions for terms like male, female, man, woman, boy, girl, mother, and father based on biological criteria.
The legislation defines “sex” as male or female based on reproductive system function observed at birth. Governor Kay Ivey is expected to sign the bill into law, expressing her support for the measure.
Supporters’ Perspective
Proponents of the bill argue that it provides clarity and uniformity in Alabama’s laws and courts. Rep. Susan DuBose, one of the bill’s sponsors, emphasized the need for legal certainty.
“We do need to pass this law for clarity, certainty, and uniformity in the courts and in the laws of Alabama,” said Rep. Susan DuBose.
Governor Kay Ivey has also expressed strong support for the legislation, aligning it with traditional values and biological definitions of gender.
“If the Good Lord made you a boy, you’re a boy. And if He made you a girl, you’re a girl. In Alabama, we believe there are only two genders: Male and female. There is nothing complicated or controversial about it,” stated Gov. Kay Ivey.
Critics’ Concerns
The bill has faced significant opposition from civil rights organizations and advocates for transgender rights. Critics argue that the legislation marginalizes transgender and intersex individuals by confining gender within rigid, binary frameworks.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Alabama has been vocal in its opposition to the bill, viewing it as part of a broader trend of legislation threatening civil liberties in the state. The organization tracked over 160 bills related to civil liberties during the 2024 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature, expressing concern about threats to voter access, LGBTQ+ rights, public safety, and free speech.
Democrats in the Alabama House have also raised concerns about the bill’s potential impact. Rep. Pebblin Warren questioned how the legislation might affect restroom access for transgender individuals, highlighting the practical challenges that could arise from such strict gender definitions.
Broader Implications
The passage of this bill in Alabama reflects a larger national debate on gender identity and transgender rights. Similar legislation has been proposed or enacted in other states, often sparking legal challenges and public controversy.
As Alabama moves forward with this new law, its implementation and potential legal challenges will likely be closely watched by both supporters and critics across the country. The ongoing debate underscores the complex intersection of law, identity, and civil rights in contemporary American society.
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