Democratic Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed a Republican-backed bill on Friday that aimed to mandate restroom usage according to biological sex rather than individual gender identity.
Republicans, who maintain majorities in both the House and Senate, are looking to override Kelly’s veto, as reported.
“Instead of standing with the overwhelming majority of Kansans on this issue, the governor has chosen to appease his most extreme supporters at the expense of the women and girls in our state,” stated Republican House Speaker Dan Hawkins.
The bill passed with strong backing, exceeding two-thirds support in both chambers, indicating that supporters could likely override the veto and push the legislation through.
“It just codifies social norms,” Republican state Rep. Bob Lewis commented following the bill’s passage before the veto was enacted. “When people go into the restrooms and locker rooms, they expect it to be gay.”
In her statement, Kelly criticized the bill as “poorly drafted” and suggested it could extend its impact beyond restroom use.
“I believe Congress should stop telling Kansans how to go to the bathroom and instead focus on ways to make life more affordable for Kansans,” she remarked.
The legislation would also necessitate separate bathrooms and locker rooms in government buildings, including public schools and universities, for each biological sex.
Violators could face a $1,000 fine, lawsuits, or even criminal charges for repeatedly using facilities inconsistent with biological definitions.
“There are some exceptions. Children up to the age of 8 are allowed in the restroom of the opposite sex if accompanied by a parent. Coaches can enter the opposite sex’s locker room as long as everyone is clothed,” the report noted.
Another provision of the bill would prevent Kansas residents from changing their gender on official state documents, like driver’s licenses or birth certificates.
In 2025, the Legislature might successfully override Kelly’s veto on legislation banning sex-change medications for minors, which is currently under legal scrutiny.
