CITIZEN: Taxpayers in Kentucky should not be forced to support radical gender ideology

Governor Andy Beshear has once again put his support of radical gender ideology above the needs of Kentuckians. During the interim session, the General Assembly exposed his efforts to force Kentucky taxpayers to fund gender “transitions” for prisoners.

While this policy might be a kickstart to Gov. Beshear’s Presidential campaign, it is hardly a respectful use of the tax dollars of hard-working Kentuckians. Further, it is the perpetuation of a lie – that a person can change their gender.

Thankfully, Rep. Josh Calloway (pictured) has introduced HB 154 to combat this wasteful proposal from the Beshear Administration. It would prohibit any state dollars from funding gender “transitions” of anyone, no matter the age. We urge the General Assembly to quickly pass this crucial legislation.

Additionally, the General Assembly will have to deal with Governor Beshear’s illegal executive order that bans so-called “conversion therapy” on minors. In reality, the executive order seeks to punish Christian counselors who use biblical truths in addressing issues surrounding sexuality. Further, the order specifically exempts those who encourage minors to seek gender transitions, even though such procedures on minors are now illegal in Kentucky thanks to SB 150 from 2023.

Rep. Calloway also filed a bill nullifying this illegal executive order, HB 64. This bill would simply reset the status quo and ensure that Christian counselors are not facing prosecution for their work. While this bill is a good first step, we encourage the General Assembly to pursue additional ways to ensure that Christians are protected by law from this radical nonsense. Otherwise, our rogue governor might attempt to find other ways to punish Kentuckians in the name of gender ideology.