Controversial bill for transgender Texans unveiled.
Texas is making headlines again, but this time, it’s for a controversial bill that could send transgender people to jail.
History of gender laws in Texas highlighted.
But how did Texas get here? The state has a long history of controversial laws regarding gender identity.
Back in 2017, Texas lawmakers attempted to pass a “bathroom bill,” which would have required transgender individuals to use public restrooms based on their sex assigned at birth.
The bill faced intense backlash from activists, celebrities, and businesses, ultimately failing to pass.
That defeat, however, didn’t stop conservative lawmakers from pushing for stricter rules regarding gender identity in the years that followed.
Fast-forward to 2025, and House Bill 3817 has reignited the debate.
Shocking bill explained.
The bill, known as Texas House Bill 3817, was recently introduced by State Reps. Steve Toth and Nate Schatzline.
The proposed law aims to create a new category of crime called “gender identity fraud.”
According to the bill, a transgender Texan could face felony charges if they “lie” about their biological sex on official documents or to an employer.
If passed, the bill could result in transgender individuals facing up to two years in prison for violating the law.
The legislation has sparked outrage and concern from LGBTQ+ advocates who argue it unfairly targets the transgender community.
Reactions to bill clarified.
Critics argue it’s a harmful and unnecessary attack on transgender people that could lead to discrimination and fear.
The bill’s likelihood of becoming law remains uncertain, but tensions continue to rise as both sides voice strong opinions.
Legal experts warn that even if the bill passes, it could face immediate challenges in court.
In the meantime, transgender advocacy groups are rallying against the legislation, calling it “dangerous and unjust.”
The Texas LGBTQ+ community is mobilizing to oppose what they describe as “state-sponsored discrimination.”
National advocacy groups have also weighed in, warning that this type of law could set a dangerous precedent.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has yet to take a public stance on the bill, but activists are already urging him to veto it if it reaches his desk.
Meanwhile, supporters of the bill insist their intent is to prevent “fraud” rather than target specific groups.
As Texas’ political landscape continues to shift, the fate of this controversial bill hangs in the balance.
Texas lawmaker’s defence confirmed.
Both Toth and Schatzline recently appeared on “TMZ Live” to defend their controversial bill.
During the interview, they insisted the bill was designed to prevent deception in legal records and employment situations.
“We’re not saying being transgender is against the law,” Toth explained during the interview.
But both lawmakers went further, claiming they believe being transgender is a “mental illness.”
This inflammatory remark added more fuel to the fire, drawing criticism from LGBTQ+ groups and medical experts alike.
The proposed bill has left many wondering what this would mean for high-profile transgender figures like Caitlyn Jenner.
If Caitlyn were to fill out a form in Texas stating her gender as female, she could technically face felony charges under this law.
When pressed about this scenario, Toth and Schatzline didn’t back down, affirming that the law would apply to anyone violating its terms.
The bill’s supporters claim it’s about “accountability” and maintaining the accuracy of state records.
The debare on House Bill 3817 continues.
The debate surrounding House Bill 3817 has sparked nationwide attention, with many watching closely to see how it unfolds.
One thing is certain: the ongoing battle over transgender rights in Texas is far from over.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to develop.