In a historic moment for the Transgender, Gender Diverse, and Intersex (TGI) community, The TransLatin@ Coalition is overjoyed to celebrate the recent passage and signing of two groundbreaking bills, AB 1487 and AB 1163, by California Governor Gavin Newsom. These vital pieces of legislation, sponsored by the California Transgender, Gender Diverse, and Intersex Policy Alliance (CTPA) Health and Human Services Network, represent a significant step forward in the fight for equality and dignity.
AB 1487 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Public health: Transgender, Gender Variant, and Intersex Wellness Reentry Fund.
Sponsored by Assemblymember Santiago and co-authored by Assemblymember Zbur, AB 1487 would establish the Transgender, Gender Variant, and Intersex Wellness Re-entry Fund (TGI Re-entry Fund), administered by the California Department of Public Health, with funding subject to appropriation. Once funded, the TGI Re-entry Fund would distribute financing for developing and expanding community-based transgender, gender variant, and intersex (TGI) reentry programs at TGI serving organizations in critical areas across the state that have experienced the carceral system.
These programs must include rental and housing assistance, transportation support, emergency food, and wraparound services. This bill would directly support the most marginalized people leaving locked facilities and allow them to reintegrate into society with community support. The signed legislation intends to build out the capacity of TGI serving organizations to provide critical and lifesaving services to TGI individuals in at least four different points across the state, including the Northern, Central, and Southern parts of California.
AB 1163 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Disparities Reduction Act.
This legislation requires the state to collect data on sexual orientation and gender identity in various public health surveys. By doing so, the bill aims to address the lack of specific and comprehensive data on the health and well-being of TGI individuals.
Collecting this data is crucial for identifying health disparities and improving access to healthcare and services for the TGI community. It helps make informed policy decisions that reflect the unique needs and challenges faced by transgender individuals, who often suffer from health disparities due to discrimination and lack of understanding.
The passage and signing of AB 1487 and AB 1163 mark a monumental achievement in the struggle for transgender rights and health equity. The TransLatin@ Coalition would like to continue to work with Governor Gavin Newsom, who recognized the importance of these bills and signed them into law, pushing California to the forefront of transgender healthcare and advocacy.
These legislative victories would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the California Transgender, Gender Diverse, and Intersex Policy Alliance (CTPA) and co-sponsor organizations. Their dedication and unwavering commitment to the TGI community have played a pivotal role in pushing these bills through the legislative process.
As the leader in organizing these efforts along with the CTPA, The TransLatin@ Coalition appreciates all the advocates and supporters who worked diligently to see these bills through. These achievements inspire us to continue to do the work to uplift the lives of TGI people across California. We recognize that much work still needs to be done, and we are going to continue to push for policies that recognize and dignify TGI people.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we remain committed to our mission of creating a future where every transgender individual, regardless of gender identity, can live their lives authentically and free from discrimination. We know that the passage of AB1487 and AB1163 begins the journey toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
We look forward to a future where transgender healthcare is not only accessible but affirming, where discrimination is a thing of the past, and where data empowers us to address health disparities effectively. Together with our allies, we will continue to push for policies that support and uplift the TGI community.
The TransLatin@ Coalition sincerely congratulates everyone who participated in this historic achievement. We are building a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate world for all.
For media inquiries, please contact Jimena Sandoval (she/her) at jimenas@translatinacoalition.org.