Over 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in the United States, more than double the amount of pro-LGBTQ+ bills filed, according to legislative researcher and queer activist Allison Chapman. This number has continued to rise and currently stands at 320. Among these bills, 96 target gender-affirming care and 51 target “Don’t Say Gay” or forced outing.
Last year, a total of 315 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were filed. The speed at which these bills are being filed has increased significantly, with over 100 bills being filed by mid-January. It’s important to note that just because a bill is filed, it doesn’t mean it will become law.
Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD’s chief executive, expressed her concerns for LGBTQ youth and called on lawmakers and voters to support the LGBTQ community and protect them against discrimination. The bills proposed would have a tangible impact on LGBTQ+ families and will do nothing to further states as a competitive state for business and economic advancement. The tracker shows that the most anti-LGBTQ+ bills were filed in Oklahoma, followed by Missouri and Texas.
In response, President Joe Biden has urged for the Equality Act to be passed, which would prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. If passed, this act would ensure the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ Americans, especially transgender young people. The act was passed by the House of Representatives in February 2021 and referred to the Senate’s judiciary committee.
