The Florida LGBTA Democratic Caucus stands united with our partners the Human Rights Campaign and Equality Florida and equality-minded Floridians throughout the state in strongly opposing blatantly transphobic House Bill 583.

This legislation would force transgender Floridians to use public facilities that do not correspond with their gender identity and expression, exposing them not just to personal and public shame, but also to fines and potential jail time.  It could also put young children at risk by prohibiting a parent or guardian of the opposite sex from assisting them in a public restroom corresponding to their gender or one not specifically designated for family use.

Terry Fleming, President of the Caucus, issued this statement:  “House Bill 583 introduced by Miami Republican Frank Artiles discriminates against transgender people and interferes with local government home rule authority.  This harmful bill is just the latest example of Republicans using the power of government to humiliate and harass people they view as second-class citizens.”

As of this statement, the legislation has no co-sponsors.  The Caucus urges our members, supporters and friends across the state to contact their legislators and urge them to vote NO should this discriminatory legislation come up for vote either in committee or before the full House chamber.