Texas Legislature Passes Bills Affecting Gender Identity Policies
Governor Abbott expected to sign legislation on biological sex definitions
The Texas legislative session has concluded with several bills related to gender identity awaiting Governor Greg Abbott's signature. These include legislation to codify the state's position on biological sex in government and health records, following Abbott's January statement that "Texas recognizes only two sexes — male and female." Additional bills focus on parental rights in education regarding gender identity and sexual orientation.
The legislation package includes House Bill 229, which defines male and female based on biological reproductive systems for government entities. Senate Bill 1188 requires electronic health records to include biological sex information. Other measures include Senate Bill 12, which prevents teachers from affirming a student's social gender transition without parental notification, and House Bill 1106, which allows parents to legally reject their child's gender identity or sexual orientation.
KEY POINTS
- •TX bills on gender identity await signing
- •Legislation defines biological sex
- •Advocacy groups prepare responses
Advocacy groups on both sides of the issue are preparing for the next phase of policy implementation. Supporters of the legislation, including organizations like Texas Values, describe the bills as "groundbreaking laws" that protect women, parents, and students. Meanwhile, LGBTQ advocacy organizations such as Equality Texas and the Transgender Education Network of Texas express concerns about potential impacts on transgender Texans when the laws take effect September 1.
LGBTQ advocates note that while some of the most restrictive proposals did not advance this session, the passed legislation will still have significant effects. These organizations are now focusing on education campaigns and exploring potential legal challenges. They are also working with insurance providers to understand implementation details, particularly regarding Senate Bill 1257, which mandates coverage for detransition procedures alongside gender-affirming care.
The legislative developments in Texas represent part of ongoing policy debates occurring in multiple states regarding gender identity, education, healthcare, and parental rights. These state-level actions continue to shape the legal landscape for LGBTQ individuals across the country, with advocacy groups on both sides preparing for implementation and potential challenges to the new laws.