Texas Bill Proposed to Criminalize Transgender Identity

A newly proposed Texas House Bill seeks to criminalize transgender identity by introducing a concept termed 'gender identity fraud.' Authored by Rep. Tom Oliverson, the bill would classify identifying as a gender different from one's assigned sex at birth as a state jail felony, punishable by up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Despite lacking co-sponsors and scheduled hearings, the bill has raised significant alarm among LGBTQ+ advocates, who view it as part of a broader trend of anti-trans legislation in Texas and nationwide. Callie Butcher, a prominent LGBTQ+ attorney, expressed deep concern over the bill's implications for transgender rights, stating it reflects a troubling narrative that positions trans individuals as deceptive. This legislative proposal follows a series of similar bills targeting transgender rights in various states, underscoring a national pattern of increasing restrictions. The likelihood of the bill passing remains low, but its introduction highlights ongoing challenges faced by the transgender community in Texas.