Arizona Democrats, led by Governor Katie Hobbs, faced backlash after vetoing a bill that aimed to protect girls from being forced to shower with boys in public schools. The bill, SB 1182, sponsored by Senator John Kavanagh, sought to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals uncomfortable using multioccupancy shower rooms designated for their biological sex.
According to Senator Kavanagh, "Girls should not be forced to shower with boys in our taxpayer-funded public schools." He expressed disappointment in the Democrat lawmakers' unanimous vote against the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring all students, including transgender kids, feel safe and have privacy in school showers.
The vetoed bill would have allowed for private shower spaces for transgender students or designated shower times, without infringing on anyone's rights. Senator Kavanagh criticized the Democrats for prioritizing gender neutrality over the safety and well-being of girls, urging Arizona parents, women, and girls to voice their concerns to the Governor and state lawmakers.
In response to the veto, Senator Kavanagh called for action, stating, "Change will only happen if we continue to speak out and push back against these injustices our women and girls continue to endure at the hands of Arizona Democrats." The decision to veto the bill has stirred controversy, with supporters of the legislation advocating for the protection of girls' privacy and safety in school facilities.
For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov
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