WA: Repeal effort targets law to help trans youth in crisis
Voters may get the last word on a new law allowing emergency shelters to notify state authorities rather than parents when a youth seeks refuge as they pursue gender-affirming health care or reproductive services.
Opponents contend the legislation undermines the power of parents and will attempt to repeal it with a referendum in November. They plan to begin gathering signatures this month.
“We’re hoping everybody can understand it really is a bad law,” said organizer Dawn Land of Puyallup. “We are putting it on the ballot so we the people can veto it.”
Sen. Marko Liias, D-Everett, the bill’s author, thinks voters will leave it in place if given the choice.
“What we are talking about here is providing shelter to children in crisis,” he said. “I am confident that when Washingtonians hear the truth, they will be supportive.”
To get on the ballot, backers must turn in valid signatures of at least 162,258 registered voters by Saturday, July 22. The Secretary of State’s Office will be open until 5 p.m. that day to accept signed petitions.
It concerns rules on providing emergency shelter to youths who are homeless or who have fled difficult situations. Existing state law directs shelter operators to notify parents within 72 hours when a child arrives at such a place. It lays out “compelling reasons” not to do so – such as abuse or neglect. Instead, shelter staff are to inform the state Department of Children, Youth and Families.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2023/05/12/repeal-effort-targets-law-to-help-trans-youth-in-crisis/
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