Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has vetoed Senate Bill 244, a legislation criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates as an anti-transgender “bathroom bounty” bill. The measure would have required transgender Kansans to use restrooms in government buildings based on sex assigned at birth, mandated reissued IDs reflecting that designation, and banned multi-occupancy gender-neutral bathrooms.
It also imposed fines and allowed lawsuits from those deemed aggrieved. In her veto message, Kelly called the proposal poorly drafted and mentioned the bill could have consequences beyond the intent to restrict the right of trans people to use the appropriate bathroom. Kelly warned it could even restrict family visits in hospitals, nursing homes, and dorms, adding, “I believe the Legislature should stay out of the business of telling Kansans how to go to the bathroom…” Democratic lawmakers condemned the bill’s process and impact.
Representative Dan Osman said, “Procedurally, it is the absolute worst bill I have ever heard in the Kansas legislature.” Republican leaders vowed an override. However, LGBTQ+ groups praised Kelly’s decision, with a warning that the bill would fuel discrimination and harassment.
