Statement objecting to Sen. Stephen West’s support of SB 150

The Meadowthorpe residents named here express our objection to Sen. Stephen West’s support of SB 150, a piece of legislation that asserts state control over the sexual and gender expression of minors. We further note that the residents of Meadowthorpe did not vote for or against Sen. West. He was appointed in a gerrymandered redistricting by the General Assembly which further suppresses the voices of democratic voters.

SB 150 prevents trans youths from accessing needed supports. Research shows that gender-affirming medical treatments, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, are strongly linked to less depression, suicide, and anxiety for youths with gender dysphoria. Numerous groups have provided evidence and testimony about the harmful effects of this bill. SB 150 makes it nearly impossible for transgender children to receive the gender-affirming care that is life-saving. Kentucky children will die because of this bill.

While less than 1% of the total population, transgender children have been the target of more than half a dozen bills by our state senators and representatives. In addition to restricting gender transition services these bills out students to their parents or allow teachers to ignore a student’s preferred pronouns or name. It is certain that these measures will lead to the death of transgender children. Lawmakers must face the horrific consequences of these bills.

Every major medical and mental health association, educators, and business leaders oppose this legislation. We condemn the General Assembly’s egregious attack on its most vulnerable citizens. Groups pushing this agenda are identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center as hate groups. We strongly oppose this public policy agenda of known hate groups.

Those listed here support bodily autonomy for all Kentuckians.