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Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoes bill targeting transgender restroom access.
Summary
Governor Laura Kelly vetoed Senate Bill 244, which lawmakers had passed to restrict restroom use and gender markers for transgender people; supporters in the legislature say they may seek an override.
Content
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed Senate Bill 244, a measure reported as restricting restroom use and gender markers for transgender people. She described the bill as "poorly drafted" and said it would have unintended consequences beyond its stated aims. The veto was issued after the legislature passed the measure along party lines.
What happened:
- Governor Laura Kelly vetoed SB244, which had been amended to include restrictions on restroom use and gender markers for transgender people.
- The governor's veto message said the bill was poorly drafted and cited possible unintended impacts on visitors and shared living spaces.
- The legislation included provisions reported as allowing private suits and fines for violations, and it would have required changes to some identity documents.
- Both legislative chambers originally passed the measure with more than the two-thirds majority needed to override, and supporters have said they will pursue an override.
Summary:
The governor's veto prevents the bill from becoming law for now and pauses its provisions. Legislators who backed the bill have vowed to seek an override, and the outcome of any override effort is undetermined at this time.
