Sacramento, CA – July 15, 2024 – The Sacramento LGBT Community Center is thrilled to announce
that today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1955, known as the SAFETY Act, into law. This pivotal
legislation prohibits California school districts from adopting policies that require parental notification if a
student identifies as transgender or changes their gender expression.
“We are incredibly proud that our advocacy and that of our partners across the state, the strong support
of legislative leaders, and now the Governor’s signature will protect LGBTQ+ students across California
from forced outing. Trans and nonbinary young people deserve to decide on their own terms how and
when to disclose their identities. At Center, we know that LGBTQ+ youth will not thrive in a learning
environment if they do not feel safe. This law represents a critical defense against the wave of harmful
and invasive policies we’ve seen passed by local school districts in the Sacramento Region and across
state over the past year,” said David Heitstuman, CEO.
The SAFETY Act significantly enhances existing protections for LGBTQ+ students by preventing school
policies that forcibly out LGBTQ+ students, providing essential resources to parents and families of
LGBTQ+ students, and safeguarding educators from retaliation. In light of the increasing anti-trans
violence perpetrated by far-right school boards, the SAFETY Act is a crucial safeguard, ensuring that
LGBTQ+ students can thrive in supportive learning environments.
There are currently eight states — Idaho, North Dakota, Iowa, Indiana, Tennessee, North Carolina, South
Carolina, and Alabama — that have passed laws requiring school staff to forcibly “out” transgender
students. Additionally, five other states — Montana, Utah, Arizona, Kentucky, and Florida — have passed
legislation promoting forced outing policies in schools.
In response to these harmful trends, the SAFETY Act not only protects the privacy of transgender
students but also provides additional resources for parents and students to discuss gender and identity.
Moreover, it shields teachers and school staff from retaliation for refusing to share a student’s gender
and identity, reinforcing a supportive environment for all.
California sets a historic precedent as the first state in the nation to explicitly protect LGBTQ+ students
from forcible outings. While the fight to protect trans youth continues, this policy marks a significant
advancement. The Center remains steadfast in its advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth, and we welcome all
LGBTQ+ youth seeking community, resources, and support.
The Sacramento LGBT Community Center’s mission to create a region where all LGBTQ+ people
thrive. We support health and wellness, advocate for equity and justice, and uplift our diverse and
culturally rich LGBTQ+ community.
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Media Contact:
Priya Kumar, Communications & Marketing Manager
priya.kumar@saccenter.org Direct 916.442.0185 x 104