Can they be serious?
A recent bill proposed in Texas, House Bill 3817, aims to criminalize what is termed “gender identity fraud.”
Introduced by Republican Representative Tom Oliverson, the bill would make it a state jail felony for individuals to knowingly provide false or misleading verbal or written statements regarding their gender identity to governmental entities or employers. This would apply if a person identifies their gender as different from the sex assigned at birth. The penalty for such an offense could include up to two years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
The bill was introduced on March 5, 2025, and currently lacks co-sponsors, making its passage uncertain.
How nasty. And they call themselves Christians?
This proposal serves no purpose other than to be hurtful.
This bill is part of a broader trend of legislation targeting transgender rights in Texas. Nearly 170 bills have been proposed this year alone, reflecting a heightened focus on restricting LGBTQ+ rights.
Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights express concern that such legislation could exacerbate distress and discrimination against transgender individuals. Major health organizations oppose restrictions on gender-affirming care, citing improved mental health outcomes for those who receive such treatments.
If passed, this bill could set a significant precedent in the national debate over transgender rights, potentially influencing similar legislation in other states. However, its current lack of support suggests it may not advance through the legislative process.
Odds are this bill won’t pass in Texas, but what if similar bills are introduced in places like Mississippi, Alabama, West Virginia, and Louisiana?