Court Blocks Gavin Newsom's Law on Student Gender Identity Secrets
A US court has blocked California's controversial law that stopped schools from telling parents about their children's gender identity changes. The decision follows a legal challenge by two teachers who refused to withhold this information. Parents and educators have welcomed the ruling as a victory for family rights.
The law, known as AB 1955, was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2023. It required schools to keep gender identity changes secret from parents unless the child gave explicit permission. Newsom argued the measure protected transgender students from being 'outed,' but critics said it undermined parental rights.
Two teachers from the Chino Valley Unified School District refused to comply, leading to the lawsuit Mirabelli v. Bonta. Sonja Shaw, the district's board president and a candidate for state superintendent, supported their stance. The court ruled that parents have a constitutional right to guide their children's upbringing, issuing a preliminary injunction against the law.
The case echoes a 2022 ruling by US District Judge Roger Benitez, who ordered schools to inform parents about gender identity changes. AB 1955 faced widespread opposition, including from liberal commentator Charlamagne tha God. Critics accused Newsom of bowing to activist pressure and targeting conservative school districts.
The Supreme Court's intervention now halts the law's enforcement. While the ruling is temporary, legal experts expect the final decision to uphold parental rights.
The court's action means schools must again inform parents about gender identity changes unless a child objects. The decision marks a setback for Newsom's policy and reinforces parents' role in their children's lives. A final ruling is expected to confirm this position in the coming months.
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