What you need to know about California’s controversial ‘gender affirmation’ bill

Parents almost always have the last say when it comes to their children but California just passed a bill that’s shaking up gender norms and parenthood.

The California State Assembly recently gave its green light to the Transgender, Gender-Diverse, and Intersex Youth Empowerment Act, also known as AB 957.

This legislation, introduced by Democratic Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson, has been under review since Feb. 24, 2023 and was modified by the Senate on June 5. It passed with a 57-16 vote in the Assembly and a formidable 30-9 vote in the Senate.

What is AB 957 all about?

The California bill places the “health, safety, and welfare” of children squarely in focus. And it mandates judges to consider a parent’s stance on affirming their children’s gender identity when considering custody cases. Affirmation here could mean different things, which could include painting their nails, growing out their hair, or allowing kids to play with whatever toys their gender associates with.

JUST IN: California State Assembly has just passed a bill allowing parents to lose custody of their children if they refuse to accept their child’s gender transition.

They want your kids.

“California lawmakers send Gov. Gavin Newsom a proposed law that would require judges to… pic.twitter.com/At37QC4jZy

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 8, 2023

Though many have reacted online that parents who fail to support and acknowledge their child’s gender transition could lose custody of their child, it “does not take someone’s child away,” wrote Taylor Woolfork, chief of staff of bill sponsor Wilson, in an email to The Associated Press.

A battle of ideals

Although AB 957 is still awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature before becoming law, debates continue to spark online. X CEO Elon Musk criticized the bill, saying it was “utter madness.”

This bill is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

What it actually means is that if you disagree with the other parent about sterilizing your child, you lose custody.

Utter madness!

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 8, 2023

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Meanwhile, Republican presidential candidate Tim Scott shared his insight after the announcement of his plan to support parents and protect school kids. “The radical Left is on a mission to make parents less important. They think your kids belong to them,” he said on Fox News.

It’s a tug-of-war between the interests of the youth and parental rights. While the debate on this proposed legislation is far from over, California will wait for the final decision as it’s now headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s table for signature.