The U.S. Supreme Court has dealt a setback to transgender students in California, restoring a lower court injunction that limits the state’s effort to protect students from being outed to parents without consent. In an 18-page unsigned order in Mirabelli v. Bonta, the court vacated a Ninth Circuit ruling that had paused a district court decision against state officials, including Attorney General Rob Bonta. The justices said parents objecting on religious grounds are likely to succeed on the merits under the First and Fourteenth Amendments. The dispute centers on a 2024 law barring schools from requiring staff to disclose a student’s gender identity or pronouns without consent. Supporters say the policy protects youth who may face rejection or harm at home. Opponents call it a forced outing. Bonta’s office said, “We are disappointed with the Supreme Court’s decision… We remain committed to ensuring a safe, welcoming school environment for all students while respecting the crucial role parents play in students’ lives.” Justice Elena Kagan, dissenting, warned the ruling shows how our emergency docket can malfunction, criticizing the majority for acting before full review.
