SAINT PAUL, Minn. - This week, Representative Leigh Finke (DFL-Saint Paul) introduced three LGBTQIA2S+ bills in the Minnesota House. These bills would represent a significant step forward in ensuring equal rights and protections for all Minnesotans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
At least 510 anti-LGBTQIA2S+ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the United States last year — a new record, according to American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) data. That’s nearly three times the number of such bills introduced in 2022. In 2024, the ACLU is currently tracking at least 474 anti-LGBTQIA2S+ bills in the U.S.
“In a time when the national narrative from anti-LGBTQIA2S+ Republican extremists seeks to eradicate and erase our queer and trans community, in Minnesota we continue our fierce push to become a fully inclusive and welcoming state for everyone,” said Representative Leigh Finke, Chair of the Minnesota Queer Legislators Caucus. “Last year, we said ‘you belong here’ to a community seeking refuge in their own country. Now is the time for us to make good on that promise. We must reinforce our existing systems and infrastructure to safeguard protections. And we must expand our ability to provide healthcare, integrate our workforce, and promote inclusive schools.”
The introduced legislation would create a range of protections. HF 4273 prohibits public facilities, like schools, from banning rainbow flags. HF 3386 allocates workforce funding to LGBTQIA2S+ people relocating to Minnesota. Finally, HF 2607 mandates health insurance plans cover gender-affirming care, considering it medically necessary when it adheres to professional medical standards.
This legislative package demonstrates a strong commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable Minnesota for all. By protecting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in schools, promoting their integration into the state, and ensuring access to vital healthcare services, passing these bills into law will have a positive impact on countless lives. The current status of the bills are as follows:
HF 4273 passed the State and Local Government Committee and was referred to the general register,
HF 3386 was laid over in the Workforce Development Finance and Policy Committee,
HF 2607 was passed the Commerce Finance and Policy and was referred to Health Finance and Policy Committee
In February 2024, the Minnesota Queer Legislators Caucus unveiled their legislative priorities which can be read here.
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