Kentucky lawmakers pass strict anti-transgender law, overriding governor's veto

Protesters against an anti-trans bill in Kentucky.
(Image credit: Jon Cherry/Getty Images)

Kentucky's GOP-led legislature voted Wednesday to override the governor's veto of a controversial bill that would create new restrictions for transgender people. The bill, which has now been made law by the legislature's override, puts into effect some of the strictest obstacles yet for the transgender community.

The bill, which The New York Times noted was "described by LGBTQ rights groups as among the most extreme in the nation," was vetoed last week by Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D). Beshear, an outspoken liberal advocate in a staunchly red state, had said that the bill allows "too much government interference in personal healthcare issues and rips away the freedom of parents to make medical decisions for their children."

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

 Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other Hollywood news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.