Meeting Public Comments

Names and comments are public records. Remaining information is considered a confidential record.

Comments Submitted:

01-25-2024

Ashley Miller []

This bill is in direct violation of Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes transgender Iowans.The continued attacks on LGBTQ+ Iowans must stop now. Iowa has become an embarrassment in the race to the bottom, and this certainly isnt the state I grew up in. Hate has no place here.

01-25-2024

Mandryx Riordan []

This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, living true to themselves These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. It's absolutely unconstitutional to strip civil rights away from Iowans based on gender identity. It's mind boggling that hateful rhetoric has brought bills like HF 2082 into law.

01-26-2024

Archer Trip []

As a proud transgender man, this bill would affect every part of my future. I have recently graduated and I am currently looking for a job to continue helping my community. However, striking gender identity out of this bill will make me lose any of the limited protections I have. This proposed bill will allow for institutions, employers, and any person in authority to take advantage of me because of who I am. This will not protect anyone, and there is no logical reasoning to strike out gender identity from an already existing bill.

01-26-2024

Kate Doolittle []

This bill is disgusting and facist, much like all the other bills selfproclaimed lesbian sex worker Jeff Shitley has introduced. It would classify trans people as disabled and embolden anyone from doctors to landlords to random dickwads on the street to harass and discriminate against trans people. Entertaining this tripe as far as subcommittee is a testament to how absolutely fucked this system is and always has been.

01-26-2024

R L []

Hard NO. Why is the Legislature focusing on discrimination as policy for the state? This is not acceptable nor a desire from the People you represent. This bill would only generate negative publicity for the state and for attracting new businesses. Leave people alone and focus on policies which impact our economy and improving education please.

01-26-2024

Joy Salsberry []

01-26-2024

Kenneth Hanson []

I strongly oppose this bill. "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" is the state of Iowa's motto. This bill flies in the face of that. Iowans who are transgender are part of our human family. As a native Iowan, I never thought I'd see the day when civil rights would be removed. Iowa has a proud tradition of upholding that state motto and being a leader in civil rights. Please don't let us become known as the state that doesn't honor human rights. This bill is atrocious.

01-26-2024

Gordie Felger []

I urge every legislator who truly believes in Christian principles (Love thy neighbor, Do unto others . . , etc.) to oppose this bill. Look, I know these public comment opportunities are just for show so you can say, "Hey, we let the people have their say." We know that the only opinions that matter are those of the majority party. The people be damned! Yet, I can't stay silent on this horrendous bill. In the year 2024, how are we even considering trying to erase and deny a whole group of Iowans? While we're at changing the Iowa Civil Rights Act, we'd better change the state motto to "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain (for Some)." You're dumping all over the liberties and rights of people you don't like! Because of Iowa's discriminatory laws, I'm having to say goodbye to a transgender friend. He no longer feels safe living here. Those of you who are so hateful of anyone not like you will give a sinister chuckle and say to your buddies, "Good riddance." But it makes me sad that Iowa has come to this. I'll think of this when I cast my ballot in November.

01-26-2024

Jaylee Nelson []

I'd say it's unbelievable that this subcommittee is pushing to remove gender identity as a protected civil rights category, but very few of this subcommittee's actions are surprising anymore. It is obvious that you are pushing legislation not for the good of the public, but to follow your own radical agenda. I would say you should feel ashamed if you were even possible of feeling shame anymore.

01-26-2024

Jess Bierling []

There is no need for this harmful bill. The existing law protecting gender identity as a class protects ALL Iowans from discrimination, not just transgender individuals. Removing these rights also goes against the state motto: Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.

01-26-2024

Claire Quelle []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is in direct violation of Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act and is therefore unconstitutional. It is shameful that the Iowa legislature is wasting taxpayer money attacking their most vulnerable constituents. Being transgender or expressing gender in a way that is comfortable for any given individual is not a mental illness or disability. But transphobia IS a mental illness. Your job is not to determine who is valuable based on your own opinions or fears it is to work in the best interested of ALL of us. Liberty and justice for all.

01-26-2024

Margo Stites []

I strongly oppose this bill. Once again, the Iowa GOP is wasting precious time and resources in pursuing an agenda of ignorance and cruelty to strip away the rights of Iowans. I am a lifelong citizen of this once great state. Unfortunately, these past several years have been an abomination. I am saddened to say that I have become embarassed to admit that I am from this state. Please, please, PLEASE stop this madness. Focus on real issues. Focus on things that will improve the lives of all Iowans, instead of trying to destroy the lives of a powerless minority.

01-26-2024

Allison Bielenberg []

I strongly oppose this bill. Time and resources being used to pursue an agenda that strips away the rights of Iowans, is baffling. Please focus on things that will actually improve the lives of ALL Iowans. I do not approve my tax dollars being used to destroy the lives of people within my community.

01-26-2024

Loulwa Soweid []

I strongly, strongly oppose this outrageous bill. Trans and nonbinary Iowans deserve to be safe, deserve to have their civil rights upheld, and deserve to be protected by the law. This bill, if passed, will not only allow but encourage blatant discrimination against them.

01-26-2024

Erin Thomason []

I am deeply disappointed that our representatives are spending their time working to harm our most atrisk neighbors rather than use their power to lift them up. I strongly oppose HF 2082 and urge you not to move it forward.

01-26-2024

Jude Shelton []

I strongly opposed this bill. This bill is antithetical to the morals and values we as Iowans hold dear. Iowa is built on principles of personal freedom and removing a protected class of individuals is stripping them of their personal freedom. This is a disgusting affront to the rights of Iowans. I would hope our state would be above attacking transgender individuals because it is trendy on the national stage. Iowa is a beautiful state full of friendly, valued people, and this bill is an attack not only on transgender people but on all Iowans. Transgender Iowans deserve protection, transgender Iowans are valuable members of our communities. This bill is abhorrent and disgusting and should be stopped. This does not reflect the Iowa I know.

01-26-2024

Lisa Ferretti [Lisa Ferretti LISW]

As clinical social worker that provides evidencebased mental health therapy for a wide range of individuals including those exploring gender identity, and as a human being that cares about other human beings, I strongly oppose this bill. If enacted, this bill will further oppress and marginalize already oppressed and marginalized Iowans. I predict the bill will affect mental health: increased depressed mood, increased dysphoria, increased intense anxiety, all of which can be predictors of increased selfharm and increased suicidal ideation. Iowa used to reflect a nationwide standard for expanding civil rights. This bill does the opposite.

01-26-2024

James Huff []

I strongly oppose this bill. As a born and raised Iowan, I was raised to believe in civil rights for all people. Removing protections for gender identity leaves all our citizens vulnerable. Are we moving back to the dark ages when only the rich white men among us have power and deserve safety? This is not the Iowa I grew up in.

01-26-2024

Jenna Crittenden []

This bill is absolutely unacceptable. I just moved here to escape the transphobia running blatantly through TN and the south in general. You should be ashamed of yourselves. Why are you glorifying the people who have historically oppressed minorities for their own personal and financial gain? The working class is done with you taking everything away from us. I shouldn't live in fear. I deserve the right to go outside, to be in public and to survive. Do your job and maybe instead of embezzling funds you should focus on the failing infrastructure of your city and especially its terrible public transportation.

01-26-2024

Laura Goddard []

There are so many more important things for our legislature to be spending time on than combing through our legislative code finding all the references to gender identity. Most Iowans are concerned about the economy, tax rates, how our taxes are spent, the condition of our roads, and the other things that affect our daily lives. What are you doing about these issues? Why has gender identity become your focus? How a person presents and how they identify themselves has little to no impact on any of the above concerns. Furthermore, if you were actually focused on the economy, you would be encouraging more people all people to come to Iowa to live, work, and play, rather than creating and enforcing laws and policies that show everyone only "certain" people are welcome in the state.Transgender people have always existed. Writing them out of the code doesn't write them out of existence, but it does make it harder for them to exist. Stop putting the lie to our state motto, "Our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain": do not pass this bill.

01-26-2024

Meghan Brophy []

I'm disgusted that this is even a conversation in Iowa. Just let people live their lives and stop trying to control things that are a personal choice. As someone who identifies as genderfluid this is absolutely disgusting.

01-26-2024

Maddie Rocha Smith []

Equal protection under the law is an essential protection that ALL Iowans deserve. This bill would strip folks of basic civil rights protections and make Iowa the first state to erase gender identity from their civil rights act. Shame on all legislators who brought this forward.

01-26-2024

Theresa Gordy []

As the stepmother of a trans stepdaughter and aunt to a trans niece, I implore you to think of them and all transgender people throughout our great state and stand up and protect their civil rights by voting against HF2082. Please do not remove gender identity as a protected class in the Iowa Civil Rights Act.

01-26-2024

Paul Zastrow []

Removing Gender Identity from the list of protected classes in the Iowa Civil Right Act is cruel and punitive, and goes against the spirit of our state as an open and welcoming environment. I urge our legislators to vote against this change and stand up for all of the citizens of our state.

01-26-2024

Caitlin Robinson []

This bill not only strips away the rights of trans citizens. It also sets an extremely dangerous precedent for other civil rights legislation and protected classes. Everyone deserves human decency. Trans rights are human rights.

01-26-2024

Jennifer Mullin []

I strongly oppose this bill because it would take away the most basic rights of so many people in our state. Please, I beg you, have mercy on human beings who are simply trying to live their life. Everyone deserves the freedoms and protections our state constitution affords Iowans.

01-26-2024

Samantha Turnbull []

I am ashamed to be a resident of a state that would consider a bill that is such a blatant violation of the civil rights of its residents. As a mental health professional the reclassification of transgender identity as a disability is a huge step backwards for a state in dire need of mental health providers.

01-26-2024

Ashley Tieden []

Should this law pass, it will put thousands of Iowans in danger of losing employment, homes, and medical care among many others. It will contribute to the continuing exodus of qualified and talented professionals from Iowa and the midwest. This law only causes harm to individuals and the economy. Transgender people are PEOPLE and deserve the same rights and protections as everyone else, and to not be treated as an illness.

01-26-2024

Lauren Gil Hayes []

I strongly oppose this bill. Transgender Iowans deserve dignity, love and respect. Transgender people are already at greater risk of dying by suicide due to social stigma and community harm. I moved to Iowa to start a family, but I cannot remain in this state if it could potentially mean risking the wellbeing of my future children.

01-26-2024

Elliot Cobb []

As a former resident who still has many friends, coworkers and family in the state of Iowa I'm appalled at the fact this bill is even seeing a committee hearing. When I moved to Iowa I was told this was a state where the bipartisan dream was realized. Representatives from both parties worked together to make Iowa on of the fastest growing states for people, business and development. Sadly while that may have been true in the past I have witnessed a continued errorison of any progress the state and its people have made. If this bill passes the impacts will go beyond the harm done to individuals but also the employers in the state looking to hire the best candidates and talent, and will discourage students who saw their path to higher learning going through Iowa. This bill is vengeful, hateful and discriminatory in a manner that would not hold up against our country's laws and constitution. I urge those in the committee to vote against advancing this bill and to work towards reclaiming a vision of Iowa where everyone is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyone can be safe.

01-26-2024

Barbara and Jim Dale []

U.S. history gives endless examples of laws limiting people's rights according to who and/or how they are.We believe everyone needs equality before the law and ask you to enact legislation following that point of view.P.S. Since when is a gender identity a disability?

01-26-2024

Erin Sheriff []

Requiring someone to obtain a diagnosis for basic human rights protections is an unnecessary burden. This bill would take a group of Iowan's and remove a protection for housing, schooling, employment, etc. We have these protections in place already. Who does it benefit to remove a class of people from those protections?

01-26-2024

Eleanor Glewwe []

I strongly oppose this bill. We should be maintaining civil rights for all Iowans, not reducing civil rights protections. Transgender Iowans deserve explicit protection from discrimination, just like women, immigrants, followers of all faiths, and other groups the Civil Rights Act is meant to protect. This is a basic matter of respecting difference and upholding rights for all. Please do not allow this bill to advance.

01-26-2024

Jennifer Larson []

I am against this bill. You cannot TAKE rights AWAY from people. I support all transgender people in IA and elsewhere. I am appalled that John Wills would think its a good idea to TAKE rights AWAY. As an American I am ready for some new leaders. Id like to see someone who actually stands up and supports civil rights for all. Or shall we walk right back into the 40s and 50s. Or the 70s. American the Land of the Free and the Brave. HA! Must no apply to Iowa. Embarrassing for sure

01-26-2024

Robert Fuller []

Why are we making how someone appears a crime?It is very disappointing to see a bill dictating how someone dresses and appears outward to society. While it is normal for legislation to discrimination against minority groups, it's the 2020s, can we stop repressing people?This isn't a crime and this bill aims to make dressing or acting other than your "social expected norm" a crime.Very disappointing.

01-26-2024

Virginia A Harlow [retired]

Where does this come from? Did some representative pick up a preop Transgender lady of the night? Now they are embarrassed? If we allow this then what is next? Take away the rights of all green eyed people? If my rights are going to be taken away then I should be granted TAX EXEMPT status as this action is what caused the original American revolution! Taxation without representation, come on Iowa, put your money where your mouth is!

01-26-2024

Jeremy Ebelsheiser []

This bill is unAmerican, unChristian and unacceptable. I was born and raised in Iowa and I've lived here all my life. I had never considered leaving, until recently. This administration and this state congress has sought abuse the levers of power to victimize their already marginalized neighbors, in a manner and to a degree I never could have imagined. It's as pathetic and shameful as it is unnecessary. Our elected representatives are meant to serve all Iowans, not to contrive and execute a fascist, bigoted agenda that serves only to harm people who want nothing more than to live authentically as contributing members of society. So much for "Iowa Nice".Matthew 7:12

01-26-2024

Zoe Frey []

A direct violation of the 14th Amendment: "No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." Allowing this denies the Constitution. If you are representing Iowa, for ALL people, do something to actually better the community.

01-26-2024

Christopher Cuhel []

As an out and proud queer nonbinary human, this bill would directly affect my very right to live and work in this state. In my nearly 48 years of life as a queer nonbinary human, I cannot believe legislation to strip human rights away from people, is being debated. Imagine waking up every single day wondering what new forms of hate legislation your tax dollars will be paying to create. Its exhausting and infuriating. l am a tax paying citizens of this state who contributes to their community and state. I should not have to feel attacked by the very Legislature that swore to defend and protect my rights. I was outed as queer 37 years ago. I came out as nonbinary 2 years ago. All the same fears and doubts I had coming out as queer are all happening again, because of this piece of hate legislation as well as all the other LGBTQIA+ hate legislation on the docket. However, I will not let this hatred force me back into ANY closet.

01-26-2024

Kristen Anderson []

I oppose this bill and urge you to not pass it. Transgender Iowans are already disproportionately vulnerable in nearly every meaningful way. This is a cruel and needless bill. Stop attacking LGBTQ Iowans and instead address any of the actual urgent issues facing us like water quality, cancer rates, housing insecurity and child poverty.

01-26-2024

David Kesler []

I am writing you today, as a father of a transgender son and a grandfather of a transgender granddaughter, to urge a "no" vote on HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-26-2024

Adrienne Miller []

As a transgender person with other trans folx family, I strongly oppose this bill. This continuation of assault on the LGBTQIA+ Iowans will push me and my family to further consider leaving the state. The mental distress of knowing that our legislators are considering bills of this magnitude and stripping rights from Iowans is bad enough, let alone the terrible consequences of directly harming real people if it passes.

01-26-2024

Beth Drewelow []

All Iowans are guaranteed equal protection under the law according to the Iowa Constitution. If the Iowa Legislature is allowed to strip protections from a group of citizens, they would also be able to discriminate against any other class. Essentially, no one would be protected. A REALLY bad proposal.

01-26-2024

Emily Phippen []

This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender and nongender conforming Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Transgender people have always existed and are not going away. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. This bill would negatively affect my family and many of my friends and loved ones. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "NO" on HF2082.

01-26-2024

Matthew McIver []

The proposed bill attacks and strips rights from a group of Iowans who already face discrimination. Not only is this morally wrong, it is terrible policy. Iowa needs to be a welcoming state for all individuals, prizing the liberties and maintaining the rights of all citizens, rather than attacking vulnerable groups.Iowa needs to attract and retain talent. Divisive policies such as this drive away those we want to attract, create a stigma for our state, and make attracting new businesses to Iowa more difficult. These policies are not in the best interests of Iowa businesses or citizens, and should be stopped immediately.

01-26-2024

Erin Elgin [Iowa resident]

I oppose the proposed changes to this piece of legislation. Removing "gender identity" from all protected classes with respect to discrimination is, in itself, biased and discriminatory. Adding in language that categories gender dysphoria as a disability is even worse and unacceptable. Your placement of gender identity next to HIV is particularly disturbing as if you're creating a false equivalence, i.e., questioning your gender identity (gender dysphoria) is in the same league with being diagnosed with HIV and navigating lifedamaging consequences. It's not.I oppose these changes and I urge you to reject the proposed changes fully. Let's create laws that help all Iowans insteadones that help us navigate climate change, enjoy clean water, benefit from exemplary education, promote equity in hiring, and so much more.

01-26-2024

amy brooks murphy [before and after the birth LLC]

my daughter is a queer fifteen year old who just texted me "how is this possible, where are my rights going?". as i sit here enraged and heartbroken, i'm seriously questioning my decision to raise my family here. this bill is not only dangerous, destructive and absolutely infuriating, it's a violation of the most basic human rights! do not let this malicious bill pass. iowans need you to do the right thing, vote no to HF 2082!! ps. how about discussing urgent, real issues like gun control, abortion rights and healthcare?

01-26-2024

Joy Ott []

This bill is a disgusting abuse of power. Transgender Iowans deserve to be protected under Iowa law. Transgender rights are human rights. People who take away the civil rights of others are on the wrong side of history every single time. This bill is a waste of time, energy and tax payer dollars.

01-26-2024

Kevin Chorniak []

I urge a "no" vote on HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. There is simply no place in our society for discrimination of any type and it's disappointing to see our legislature even considering a bill such as this.Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-26-2024

Amy Davison []

01-26-2024

Elizabeth Pennington []

As a taxpayer, I find it really frustrating that the legislature seems determined to spend their time and my money doing whatever they can to further reduce the rights of marginalized groups. Is this really the best use of your time and attention? Please, don't degrade Iowa's right to protection based on gender identity. The people this bill affects are also Iowans and constituents deserving of a minimum of basic consideration. It's a low bar, and this bill puts it at risk.

01-26-2024

Casey Hart []

I've been a conservative for many years because I believe in the founding principles laid out in the Declaration of Independance, namely "that all humans are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." I have worked as an engineer for nearly 12 years now in Iowa, paid my taxes, helped those who were less fortunate, worshipped at my church, and in general sought to improve my community. So, hopefully some in this legislature will be able to empathize with my dismay that the very officials that I thought would protect these fundamental principles seek to remove my rights not to be discriminated against simply because I'm trans. In part I hope that this is because they truly believed the fear mongers rhetoric and misinformation, who seek to make me appear as some kind of monster. I would urge all to look at HF 2082 and realize that it is wholly wrong and in reality an attack at the very foundation of this country. I would beg you to take the time to get to know a trans person, because in doing so you will realize that we are not so different and we are people to.

01-26-2024

Kelly McConnell []

I am a proud trans man and resident of Iowa. My transgender identity does not make me disabled. I and others like me deserve the same protections against discrimination as every other Iowan. Why, in 2024, is the state trying to allow hate and fear to guide legislation. Jesus said that we should love our neighbor as we love ourselves. He also said that what you have done to the least of these (homeless, hungry,strangers,etc) you have done to him. Hate has no place in Iowa. The new state motto is Iowa, freedom to flourish. If the protections for transgender people are removed there will be no freedom for me and others to flourish. I am strongly opposed to this bill.

01-26-2024

Jonathan Danker []

This bill is against the Iowa Constitution and the US Constitution. This is the land of the free not the land of where you have to be a certain person in order to be free. Iowa Nice is where you welcome everyone no matter where they come from, what they believe in, who they love or what they identify as. This bill is NOT Iowa Nice.

01-26-2024

Anne Noonan []

As the mother of a transgender daughter and grandmother of a transgender girl, I strongly opposed this bill. The definition of gender identity should not be removed. Transgender and nonbinary people are contributing members of our communities. This bill will do more to make Iowa an unwelcoming state. We are better than this.

01-26-2024

Hailey Postma []

I strongly oppose this bill. The ironic part is that transgender people will still be protected because of sex, and with these changes, because of "disability". So the intent of this change is solely for the purpose of communicating the originator's (Jeff Shipley) and those who vote for it's personal opinions of transgender individuals. Also, everyone has a gender identity, so this exposes everyone who doesn't adhere to social gender norms.

01-26-2024

Bella Markley []

To remove gender identity as a protected civil right in the state of Iowa is like removing a piece of oneself. Like removing the air from our lungs and the blood from our hearts. Why in 2024 are we wrong for existing. Psychology proves gender is a spectrum, sociology proves gender is a societal concept, history proves that people of multiple genders and sexualities have existed since before the 1600s. What do we need to do to establish and prove a point of a valid existence? That we are human? Do you have no empathy?

01-26-2024

Mandy Fox []

Do we really want to be the first folks in the country to scale back our discrimination laws which now make it OK to legally discriminate. This is assinine. Do you believe no discrimination exists, or are you wanting to make it OK to discriminate. Either is ridiculous. And this is FAR more offensive that "trying to protect kids" etc. This the opposite of what I want me legislators doing.

01-26-2024

Kaily Speer []

This bill is discrimination, plain and simple. It would have immediate material consequences for trans and genderqueer folk of Iowa, and it would embolden those who wish us harm. My heart is broken that any of us should have to come here and beg for our rights to be protected.

01-26-2024

Amanda Ostman []

America is supposed to be the land of the FREE. Taking away more rights from people, let alone those that DON'T EVEN DO US ANY HARM, is completely going against everything America was built for. Transgender people are just as human as the rest of us and it shouldn't take another civil war to learn that.

01-26-2024

JoAnna Springsteen []

I strongly oppose this bill. Not only does it directly violate the Iowa constitution and basic human rights, no one is asking for this! Find something actually meaningful to work on that Iowans care about.

01-26-2024

Priya Larson []

Having a gender identity of any sort is not a disability. It should also not be grounds for legal discrimination. Oppose this bill which would remove protection from discrimination for transgender people.

01-26-2024

Jeremy Prouty []

This bill is yet another dangerous precedent that our Governor and the radical, evangelical, fascistfriendly legislature in our state has crafted to erode the civil liberties of all Iowans by targeting people who are already at the greatest risk of mistreatment. This is straight out of the playbook of white supremacists' efforts throughout the nation. It is evil, small minded and bad for ALL Iowans. When you pick and choose which humans are allowed human rights, you are choosing to allow an us vs. them mentality to replace justice and liberty. To claim that the spate of new laws are meant to protect freedom and innocent youth (SF 496) and the reduction or elimination of income taxes (which will disproportionately harm the working poor in our state). Claiming that these measures are for the good of anyone besides the wealthy and/or nationalist evangelicals is blatant lies and hypocrisy. I am ashamed of what our state has become and I am terrified of what it is becoming. Stop pretending that you represent all Iowans. Be honest about who you wish to court and support through these actions. I have never had less faith in my government to govern with logic, compassion, and magnanimity. Sincerely, Jeremy Prouty

01-26-2024

Janice Arthur []

I am strongly opposed to this bill. I cannot conceive of a time in our countrys history when we have been on the side of goodness and justice when we strip away civil rights from a marginalized group of people. Please do not pass this bill and make Iowa an unsafe and unwelcoming place for families like mine to call home.

01-26-2024

Wendy Davies-Popelka [Deere & Company]

I find it disheartening and tragic that the state of Iowa recently adopted the "Iowa, Freedom to Flourish" slogan while the rights and protections of so many of our citizens are under attack. This attempt to remove protections based on gender identity is the latest move to marginalize and dehumanize some of the very Iowans who are supposed to be "free to flourish." I urge you to STOP making these draconian changes to our state's laws and focus on solving the very real problems so many Iowans face every day.

01-26-2024

kathranne knight []

I strongly oppose this bill because it creates an easier path for discrimination and places undue burden on transgender Iowans. The inclusion of the term Gender Identity in our Civil Rights Act was inserted because of a need to make clear that one cannot discriminate based on the inherent quality of oneself or the expression of oneself. All Iowans are guaranteed equal protection under the law according to the Iowa Constitution.

01-26-2024

Claudia Knutson []

It seems that every day something negative comes from the Iowa Republican legislature focusing on minimizing, diminishing, eliminating and controlling the freedoms we have had and should have. Iowa has become a depressing state in which to live, work, and go to school. We have seen all too frequently the transgender population being targeted, and this bill is another example of what we should NOT be doing to our trans citizens! What is coming next that will be repulsive?

01-26-2024

Tammy Shull []

This bill will take away protection for transgender people who deserve to access public accommodations, and financial fairness without experiencing discrimination just because of who they are or how they look. Im very concerned that Iowa is sending a message that the state doesnt welcome or protect people who experience discrimination because of their gender identity. Iowa needs young people and their families and I know several families that will be negatively impacted by this legislation. Please vote no on this legislation.

01-26-2024

Melissa Sternhagen []

How many ways can I say this?: NO! I strongly oppose this bill and cannot believe that in the year 2024 we are still having this debate about whether or not all people deserve equal protection under the law! Stop wasting time on figuring out who you can push out next and start doing your jobs. There are real issues in this state and transgender people are not one of them. Stop providing solutions where there is no problem except for the ones that you invent. So many of you say you are Christians.... Start acting like it. Even if you can't stand transgender people, didn't Jesus say something about loving our enemies!? This is 50 steps backward from where we need to be. As a state. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

01-26-2024

Emily Howes-Vonstein []

I strongly oppose this bill. As Christians we're asked to love thy neighbor and honor the dignity of life. Legislating hate through discrimination goes directly against this. People are worthy of safety regardless of our understanding of who they are or our agreement with them. Every Iowan is worthy of access to housing, healthcare, employment and education. LGBTQIA+ Iowans are no different. They, too, are living breathing humans who deserve to stay living and breathing. Additionally, I'm concerned by the continued language of equating trans identity with disability. Please focus on policies that create affordable healthcare, robust public schools and feed the most vulnerable rather than striping the rights of Iowans.

01-26-2024

Joseph Samuel []

This bill is absolutely unacceptable. Basic civil rights are something ALL Iowans deserve. Our representatives are elected to serve ALL Iowans. I sincerely urge you to vote "no" to this bill (HF 2082)

01-26-2024

Alexandra Gray []

As a Iowan who is Transgender this bill is dangerous, destructive and harmful. To openly tell people they have no value and place them in paths of harm is counterproductive. You are telling all of us that we don't deserve education, housing or jobs. who becomes the next group that you will come after. This is a fascist move to create all sorts of destruction. You all as a group are making a effort to harm people and send them to possible death

01-26-2024

Zach Haralson []

Im absolutely opposed to this. Enabling more discrimination is never a step forward. This is a distraction and a waste of time. Legislators should work on providing actual support and solutions to the people they serve. Do your jobs instead of creating spectacle.

01-26-2024

Lora Hesseltine []

Representatives,Please DO NOT remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. As the parent and friend of multiple trans and nonbinary citizens, I strongly oppose their removal as residents of the Iowa population of workers, students, and members of society deserving of the protections of the Civil Rights Act. Human history shows time and again the dangers of segregating, dividing us with classifications and labels. Divisions halt the functionality of society and are historically removed for the better, with positive outcomes and progress, after great upheaval and disfunction, lost productivity, and resources.Consider, also, the resulting anger and fear perpetuated by alienating minorities. History proves the dangers of promoting these emotions in any society, whether that be violence in our local neighborhoods, or in the extreme, World Wars. Civilizations consistently collapse due to simple anger and fear, and while that is a large scale outcome, it begins locally. Lastly, the human heart is a fragile thing. Causing emotional pain via separation from society and stripping the sense of belonging and protection is cruel. Inclusion is vital to our wellbeing. DO NOT remove the protections of ANY Iowan. Lora Hesseltine, Johnson County

01-26-2024

Heather Neuroth []

Im ashamed to be an Iowan if this passes. Not only is our state LAST in adolescent access to mental health care, but now this? Trans people are NOT secondclass citizens. They have just as much a right to exist as anyone else. How does someones identity as trans affect you? It doesnt! This is shameful.

01-26-2024

Kobie Long []

I strongly oppose this bill. This bill makes me feel ashamed to call the state of Iowa my home. This bill has been created by ignorant, unkind people who have no regard for civil rights. I am simply at a loss for words for how enraging and disappointing it is to these types of bills being proposed in Iowa.

01-26-2024

Hailey Franzen []

The proposing of this House File feels heinous as a life long Iowan who holds a trans identity. I would ask representatives to consider whether or not the proposition of this house file in and of itself should be considered a violation of Iowas current protections from harm. Iowas politicians are wondering why people have been fleeing the state; propositions that directly attack the identities of Iowans may be a good place to begin revising political strategy.

01-26-2024

Athelda Jones []

I vehemently oppose this bill. It is 2024 and the time for denying rights to *any* group of individuals is regressive, dystopian, draconian nonsense. I expect more from elected officials than this kind of small mindedness.

01-26-2024

Megan G []

Stripping Iowans of basic human rights? Iowa has become an embarrassment. Why are some of you legislators so filled with hate? What is about the LGBTQ+ community that has you feeling so insecure? I hope you heal so you dont cause others any further harm. Stop taking away rights of citizens when you claim your value is freedom and Christian love.

01-26-2024

Dessie Sliekers []

The thought that our Iowa legislature would go as far to remove transgender Iowans from the Iowa Civil Rights Act absolutely appalls me and those proposing it should feel ashamed. To remove this minority group from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is to dehumanize them and it is abhorrent. I am a proud mother of a 17 year old trans daughter, and she simply wants to live a normal life, in a state where she has basic human rights, and doesnt have her personhood challenged on a daily basis. I am angry and hurt that our Iowa legislators would suggest that she, and every other transgender Iowan, doesnt deserve the basic human rights, afforded to every other citizen in this state. This bill is no only inhumane, it is unnecessary, we have so many other things that need attention in our state right now. Please, do not progress this bill any further. If you have any value for civil liberties, for human life, for common decency, do not progress this bill.

01-26-2024

Sophie Steffensmeier []

History will never look fondly on those who take away the rights of others. The fact that this is even in committee is an insult to what we stand for as Iowans. What about our crumbling roads and bridges? What about the issues that truly matter in enriching this state and *all* people who call it home? Reject HF 2082. If your prime directive as an elected representative isn't to serve everyone, including those different than you, then I'd suggest finding a different path in life.

01-26-2024

Pamela Mix []

This bill would harm all Iowans and benefit no one. It would it directly and tragically harm an already marginalized transgender community. In addition, loss of protections in employment, housing, education, and credit would lead to increases in poverty and homelessness among this population which places an additional burden on all tax payers in Iowa. Not only is HF 2082 morally reprehensible, it is economically shortsighted.

01-26-2024

Carol Chebuhar []

I vote a big fat NO to this bill. Its so disappointing that theyre making an issue of it at all. It shouldnt even be an issue as they are people just as we all are. Trans people are way better people than those that want to pass this harmful bill.

01-26-2024

Steve Frevert []

Questions why does the rightwing Legislature hate freedom, why do they want to deny Iowans their civil rights, and why don't they spend their time on actual NEEDS for our citizens? This proposal is disgusting. Kill it now.

01-26-2024

Sheena Grove []

The hypocrisy of this bill cannot be understated. In much of the verbiage I hear from state leaders, they emphasize that they are prolife. But whose life? Only those you deem worthy? This bill is dangerous and invites all kinds of hate and discrimination. Passing it is an act of permission for so many spaces to cause harm. Please vote no to this bill and focus on the legislation that will respectfully move us FORWARD in the world.

01-26-2024

Emilie Dolphin []

This bill is extremely harmful to transgender people and will actively alienate and marginalize them for just being who they are. This is a direct violation of Iowas constitution and strips them of basic rights. This would directly affect people I love and care for deeply as Im sure it would most Iowans. This is an embarrassment to our state.

01-26-2024

Terri Hale []

Please do not move forward on this proposed legislation that would remove basic civil rights from transgender Iowans and, in effect, legalize discrimination against them.Why would we ever pass legislation to allow discrimination against any group of our citizens? This measure ensures harm against our transgender friends, family, classmates, coworkers and loved ones. It violates the very basis upon which our nation was founded.This is not Iowa nice. It is Iowa mean and cruel.Furthermore, why remove protections from an already threatened group of people while ignoring the need to protect older adults in long term care settings who are being neglected and abused? This is a real problem that needs legislative time and attention.Please remove this bill and focus on measures that would actually help our citizens rather than punish them. I challenge each of you to spend time getting to know a transgender Iowan...I mean really getting to know them before you propose this kind of legislation. If you became friends with transgender Iowans you would know they are more like you and me than they are different. I do not think you would even consider this kind of bill. Please have compassion for ALL Iowans. Thank you.

01-26-2024

Kim Stewart [None]

Political leaders and politicians need to back off on hurtful rhetoric and laws . These LGBTQ. Laws are just disgusting. They are people tooo . Why does the government fill the need to go after this group year after year. Its just not right.

01-26-2024

Marlee Myers []

As a trans nonbinary Iowan, I am writing to express my strong opposition to House File 2082, which seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class. More than just a legislative concern, this bill represents a direct attack on the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a part.At a time when our state grapples with significant challenges, such as the need for improved public education, homelessness, food shortages, and water quality issues, it is deeply troubling to witness the legislature's focus on attacking a vulnerable group. The fact that this is happening for the second year in a row only adds to the frustration and disappointment many in our community feel.Iowa's public education system, a cornerstone for our future, needs attention and resources. By diverting focus and resources to legislation like HF 2082, which aims to marginalize an already vulnerable population, we are neglecting the essential needs of our state, including the education of our youth.I urge you to reconsider the priorities of our legislative agenda. Our efforts should be concentrated on fostering a state where every individual, regardless of their gender identity, can thrive. This includes addressing the pressing issues of enhancing our public education system, tackling homelessness, resolving food scarcity, and ensuring clean water.I respectfully request that you oppose HF 2082 and advocate for legislative efforts that genuinely matter to the wellbeing and advancement of all Iowans. We need to focus on building a more vital, more inclusive state where every individual has the opportunity to succeed and contribute positively to our society.

01-26-2024

Alora Parker []

Why are we moving backwards in this world? Is it due to over religious antics bleeding into our politics? Is it just ignorance? We are HUMAN. We deserve respect. We deserve our rights to be protected! This is a direct violation of the federal constitution!

01-26-2024

Danielle Pettit-Majewski []

Trans rights are human rights, and this is a violation of human civil rights. This is completely vile and only used as a way to punch down on an already vulnerable population. Iowa used to be better than this.

01-26-2024

Tambi Heiter []

WHY are you spending your time taking away the rights of people who just want to live their lives without fear??!! This is the opposite of what most people in this state want. Just. Let. Them. Live. Their. Lives!

01-26-2024

Jeanne Fung []

I never imagined that Iowa would be a state that would take away its citizens basic human rights. This is a shameful violation of the civil rights of our families, friends and neighbors and puts lives at risk. I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to stop it from moving forward.

01-26-2024

Denise Stadter []

I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to not allow it to move forward. All Iowans deserve to be safe and protected and all belong in Iowa. Removing any civil rights protections is incredibly dangerous and not what Iowans stand for.

01-26-2024

Lyndi Collins []

This proposed change is ignorant, inconsistent with medical standards, and harms not only transgender individuals and their loved ones but also harms the ability for businesses in the state to recruit employees. There is no positive impact for this change. Let the bill die.

01-26-2024

Nick Oswald []

As a proud LGBTQ Iowan, I want to urge you to listen to your constituents and end this hateful, discriminatory bill NOW! As of me writing this comment (Friday 1/26, 9pm CST) there is NOT ONE person in favor of this bill, but a ton of people begging you for their lives and the lives of those that they love. All we want to do is be left alone and live our lives as our authentic selves. Please let us do that!

01-26-2024

Katie Mitchell []

I am horrified that hf 2082 is even being considered. The civil rights act was created to protect all people. How can removing protections for a group of people cause anything other than direct harm? It is also a slippery slope, "gender identity" is not just used for trans people. Removing protections for people based on their gender means that cis men and women will be vulnerable to discrimination based solely on their gender. We need to be moving forward in protecting all people, not backwards.

01-26-2024

Jake Strachan []

I am strongly opposed to any legislation that would remove gender identity from civil rights protections in Iowa. This would invite widespread discrimination (housing, employment, medical care, etc.) against a group that already endures so much. Please vote to maintain protections and ensure dignity for our trans population.

01-26-2024

Nicole Trip []

I strongly oppose this bill and the implications that this proposal has for our state. It is dangerous to begin the slippery slope of restricting what or what does not count as a protected class. It is unpatriotic for our government to roll back rights that have been fought for each citizen. I urge this committee to understand the negative consequences of this decision that will impact every single person in a negative aspect. Even though you may think this does not affect you, it can and will be used against you.

01-26-2024

Thomas Powell []

I could not oppose this bill more. Removing essential protections from transgender and gender diverse Iowans is detestable and completely goes against every principle our country and state are founded upon. This bill would do nothing except strip away freedom and equal opportunity from an entire group of citizens who are already marginalized.Furthermore, the reclassification of gender dysphoria as a disability is absolutely ridiculous and insulting. Not only does this completely go against the stance of every major medical organization, but it also clearly shows that the only intent behind this bill is vindictive discrimination against a group who are, again, already marginalized and discriminated against.

01-26-2024

Nicole Trip []

01-26-2024

Rick Phillips []

There is only one goal for HF2082 and that is to protect innocent children from an absurd ideology called Gender Identity. Taking steps to making better public policy for the benefit of children does not take away anyones identity or violate constitutional rights. Fear of losing ones identity and constant affirmation is all part of an inferiority complex that naturally occurs with this flawed behavior. Why are so many people committed to protecting something that so clearly causes harm to innocent children? Gender Identity is not a gift to children. It creates mountains of adolescent behavioral problems and destroys quality of life. Lets protect children from a clear and present danger. We cant fix those already infected by this societal disease and the lies it speaks, so why produce more of the same? Gender Identity is not in need of protection. Innocent children need protection from Gender Identity. If the lie brought joy and happiness or had any intrinsic value, there would be a decline in social problems with its implementation. The benefits would be overwhelmingly recognizable. Because Gender Identity is so clearly destructive and divisive, it is necessary to remove its protections. We want to reduce cases of gender dysphoria, child suicides, dysfunctional homes, and a myriad of mental illnesses and other abhorrent societal behaviors exacerbated by Gender Identity. Those resisting this logical legislation prefer sacrificing and confusing children over keeping them mentally safe. They profit from harming children. That is indefensible. The gift to children not yet infected with gender ideology is to prevent them from contracting the disease in the first place. Passing HF2082 will protect children. Remove Gender Identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Code to secure those protections.

01-26-2024

Rebecca Slawson []

I strongly oppose this bill. No matter how hard I try, I cannot comprehend the hate that you people have in your hearts for such a huge portion of our world. The willful ignorance when it comes to understanding what life is like for anyone who you deem "different" than yourselves. How very shortsighted you all are. Instead of leading with fear and hate, you could lead with love and acceptance and reap the benefits of living in a world where everyone is allowed the opportunity to thrive. On a long enough timeline, justice wins. It's unfortunate that so many "leaders" are choosing to be on the wrong side of history and actively cause so much harm.

01-26-2024

David Wilkinson []

Continued conservative Republican attacks against their fellow Americans stripping them of their identity, their rights, protections, and their basic dignity as your fellow humans is disgusting. It must end. Republicans need to live up to the call of the founding idea if this country e pluribus unum. We demand liberty and justice for ALL. Not just the ones republicans deem worthy! Geez and you wonder why the Republican Party is dying and younger generations are rejecting religion.

01-26-2024

Emily Dalen []

Please stop this unjust bill. It is in opposition to protections given in the state constitution. As a pastor, I believe ALL people have the right to be the person they are created to be. Everyone has the right to feel safe and be protected. We must stop choosing new ways to discriminate against people.

01-26-2024

Joni Wright []

I recently read a statement from University of Dayton professor Esther Brownsmith that is why HF2082 should be voted down."Most Americans agree that religion should not dictate public policy, but these proposed rules are rooted in ingrained religious biases about gender roles. Those biases are unethical and unbiblical. Our trans neighbors are radiant gifts of God, just like Joseph and Deborah, and they are terrified by our government trying to legislate them out of existence."Say "No" to HF2082!

01-27-2024

Gabriel Rumsey []

I agree with all commenters stating that this causes harm to transgender Iowans. For those reading who aren't concerned about them, this impacts other Iowans as well. If Gender Identity is no longer protected, the following may be said: "I am not firing you because you're female biologically, I am firing you because your Gender is woman, and we really need an employee who identifies as a man." and it may be perfectly legal. It can be argued in court, of course, but that's a hefty ask for the majority of Iowans who may be most at risk. Likewise, declaring Gender Identity related diagnoses to be disability would entitle them to these protections anyway, if they are able to afford and access proper medical care, because being transgender would be a disability. All this would due is needlessly punish transgender Iowans who can't afford or access formal diagnoses about these things. In the same document you are both removing these protections and placing them somewhere else harder to access, which may be logical to you for some things (Unemployment costs money, I get it), it is NOT logical for civil rights protections, which ostensibly cost nothing to enstate.

01-27-2024

Allegra Hernandez []

This proposed bill is unconstitutional and does nothing to enhance the livelihoods of Iowans. This bill would harm so many people I love and care about. Amazing, beautiful people who contribute to bringing good to the state of Iowa, the culture, arts, economy, and community. As a lawmaker, I do have to ask why would you propose laws that would strip basic, civil rights from people who you are supposed to serve? There are transgender people in this state that who live, work, and contribute to their communities in abundance. Why would you make it harder for them? Sincerely, from a nonbinary/trans Iowan,Allegra

01-27-2024

Kendra Weston []

This bill aims to attack a community who is already disproportionately affected by poverty and violence allowing discrimination to occur at even higher rates. I strongly urge Iowa legislators to reject this from moving forward.

01-27-2024

LeAnn Thongvanh []

The rights we have should be human rights. Everyone regardless of anything (sexual orientation, gender, religion, ability, etc) should be entitled to the same rights. Everywhere. Under all circumstances. Stripping humans of their rights is immoral and unconstitutional. Vote no.

01-27-2024

Tyler Katz []

These kinds of laws are a reason why I left Iowa, and why this state has a brain drain. As someone in the LGBTQ+ community, I am directly impacted by this. This bill is infringing my rights to equal protection under the law, simply for who I am. It is treating me like a secondclass citizen, and it is treating my gender like a disease. It's unconditional, it's a waste of time and resources that could be better spent fixing actual problems, and it's shameful. I strongly oppose this bill. Vote no to this bill, and vote to protect LGBTQ+ rights.

01-27-2024

Michelle Vallet []

I grew up in Dubuque, Iowa, and still visit regularly to spend time with my parents. I always look forward to returning there with my son, who is trans. He has a special relationship with my mom. They absolutely adore one another, and I'm happy he has someone like her.As I watch my home state continue to take aim at my son and all transgender Iowans, it's difficult to feel either pride in the place I called home or excitement at how deeply my son loves the state, in part because one of his favorite humans still lives there.I have absolutely no idea why Iowa legislators are so obsessed with eliminating trans people. You'll tell me you don't mind trans people, you just don't want them to have basic human rights, like job protection, safe housing, education. As long as you never see trans people, you're fine that they exist. That's not existing and, more importantly, it's not LIVING. Trans people like my son want the same rights to pursue their dreams as you, as your own kids. That people like my son make you uncomfortable says nothing about trans people and everything about you.I'm ashamed of Iowa, and as I watch legislators show themselves as people who are actively working to erase people like my son, my only hope is that you sit with yourselves long enough to understand that trans people are not the threat you think they are, that you make them in the media, news, your own hearts and minds. They are just ... people. People who want to be treated fairly, have job opportunities, the ability to find safe housing. They are exactly like you and deserve the protection so many others are afforded when faced with misunderstanding and injustice.

01-27-2024

Melissa McCollister []

As someone who has dedicated decades to working as a social worker in LGBTQ advocacy, particularly with trans youth and those exploring gender identity, and as a person who has raised a trans child, my opposition to this bill is deeply rooted in both my personal and professional experience. Enacting this bill would only serve to further oppress and marginalize already vulnerable individuals in Iowa. It is concerning that the bill may have negative effects on mental health, potentially leading to increased depressed mood, anxiety, dysphoria and as well as selfharm or suicidal ideation. Iowa has historically been seen as a leader in expanding civil rights, but this bill appears to go against that standard. It is important we continue advocating for the rights and wellbeing of all individuals, especially those in marginalized communities.

01-27-2024

Judy Long []

If your name is Dale, but you prefer to go by Tom, bills like this prohibit people from choosing how they identify. Its disgusting, embarrassing and obviously demonstrating how terrified you are of people that might me different than you. Maybe instead of creating false problems that cause more harm to Iowans you should actually address the problems we are facing. It is literally your job. You are fucking disgraceful.

01-27-2024

Judy Long []

01-27-2024

David Jennings []

These are our friends and neighbors who just want to live their best lives and do so with same protections as everyone else. I'm saddened to see this bill even be introduced and strongly oppose it. Please get back to bipartisan work like tackling our water quality issues and figuring out how to make the next generation proud to live here and want to stay here.

01-27-2024

Jordan Selha []

Im trying to think what I, a transgender man and a target of this bill, could possibly say that would make a difference in whether it makes it out of committee or not. You must know that vilifying a minority group not only redirects energy from issues that matter to a majority of your constituents but it also provides a platform for education about trans people and support for us to grow (thank you for that). Transgender Iowans were not born yesterday and yet from the sound of a handful of lawmakers, one might think so or that we somehow became a threat overnight. I was alive and kicking in the 80s, 90s, and 00s before LGBT protections were passed. We survived then and we will survive now. But I cant help but wonder if committee members who push this bill through will withstand the judgment of fairminded Iowans whose priorities are being pushed aside let alone the response of your constituents who have raised us, taught us, hired us and benefited from our contributions. As I said, Im not really sure what I can say that will influence you. But with the power you have given me by making me a target and a force with which to be reckoned, I use my voice today to invite you to refocus your own power on the things that matter, on the people you represent.

01-27-2024

Geoffrey Shapiro []

HR2082 concerns me deeply. This does not align with American values which seek to protect the least of us. It is ethically concerneding and lacks any real justification aside from legalizing discrimination. Some of our companies most valued members are part of the LGBTQ+ community and they have told us the continuation of these hateful laws will result in harm to their families and could result in the loss of high paying Iowa employees. This hurts all Iowans and puts a stain on our great state.Please vote against HR2082.Thanks,Geoffrey ShapiroIowa Resident

01-27-2024

Hungry Kid []

Remember when we were first in the nation in education? Remember when candidates from both parties tried to win our vote? Remember when we had a representative assembly? Why are wasting my tax money on legislation like this instead of feeding hungry school children? Why not help conserve ground water for farming? Why not legislation to help offset the growing rise in cancer in the state? Why not legislation to help retain the students coming out of the universities? This is all for show and no substance to help anyone but all about hate.

01-27-2024

Victor Robbins []

As a transgender man, I am strongly opposed to this bill. Allowing for discrimination in any capacity strictly goes against not only our constitutional rights, but our basic human need for safety as well. If employers are allowed to discriminate against people based purely on their gender identity, how are people meant to survive? Especially during a time as this, when job insecurity is a real concern for Americans everywhere.

01-27-2024

Marquetta McQuone []

I oppose this bill. It is a blatant violation of the PEOPLES freedoms and liberty. Freedom is for all not just those you deem good enough to have freedom. Its a violation against the constitution. What would Jesus do? Vote like Jesus would vote. With love not hatred for those who you dont even know. Drop your brainwashed ideas of whats morally right and be a real human being for a moment. Iowa doesnt want this. Only small minded, small Towned people who are incapable of an original thought or zoom out to see the bigger picture are asking for this bill. Why give the small minded ones what they want? Their intention is selfishness and oppression of others so they feel more esteemed in society. We DO NO WANT THIS. WE DO NOT WANT THIS. WE DO NOT WANT THIS.

01-27-2024

Allison Snyder []

This bill offers nothing beneficial to the state of Iowa or the people you were elected to serve. Stripping protections and reverting law to an antiquated and defunct stance on gender identity sets a precedent that future civil rights protections are open to removal as well. "Iowa Nice" is the worst facade I've seen & it will truly be an act of cruelty if you push this bill forward.

01-27-2024

john hale []

It's bills like this that serve as a litmus test for what kind of state we live in. The message this bill sends is that Iowa is a place that is comfortable with discrimination, is perfectly willing to view some people as "less worthy" than others, and is, frankly, content to be cruel.Yes, the subcommittee can vote to not move the bill forward. But as the subcommittee knows, great damage has been done simply by giving it headlines and undeserved attention.As my wife and I interact with people across the United States, more and more of them ask us a question that goes something like this: "What happened to Iowa? What happened to the state that was once known for its moderation, its common sense, and its 'aheadofthecurve' views on human and civil rights?"We respond by saying that it's changed. Drastically. And not for the good. The consideration of this bill is evidence of that. Our ask of the subcommittee is to dispose of this bill quickly, and to move on to other issues much more pressing.

01-27-2024

Janet Broderick []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is wrong to strip away rights from people because of their gender identity. I don't understand the preoccupation of the governor and republican party of Iowa with attacking the LGBTQ community. The government has no authority to interfere in these personal and medical decisions. Please focus on laws that help Iowans not demonize some.

01-27-2024

Lenore Howard []

I am strongly opposed to HF 2082. Gender nonconforming people as a whole class are not disabled nor mentally disordered. To be classified as such to deny their civil rights, violates Iowas constitution under the Bill of Rights (as stated by another commenter to this bill). This bill further stigmatizes them, which is not only cruel but has very real consequences for their lives (noted specifically in others comments to this bill). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM5TR), adopted 2013, is the handbook used by health care professionals in the United States and much of the world as the authoritative guide to the diagnosis of mental disorders. It articulates explicitly that gender nonconformity is not in itself a mental disorder. It also states, medical professionals continue to discuss how best to preserve access to gender transitionrelated health care while also minimizing the degree to which such diagnostic categories stigmatize the very people that physicians are attempting to help. If those of you proposing this bill are not medical professionals nor will listen to them, youre merely using your power again, chasing your own biases at the real expense of human lives and Iowans.

01-27-2024

Nicholas Bergus []

Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain, reads the Iowa state motto, which is emblazoned on the state flag flying above the Capitol and hung throughout the building if you need a refresher. This bill, which I oppose, takes, rather than maintains, the civil rights of Iowans. It violates the State constitution. It violates the US constitution. It does not make Iowa better. It does not improve the lives of Iowans.

01-27-2024

Cal Solverson []

As a transgender Iowan this bill puts my right, my life, and my agency at risk. I was born and raised in Iowa, and I remember a time when Iowa was leading the nation in progress. We were one of the first states to legalize same sex marriage, and now we are doing nothing but moving backward. Religion does not belong in law making. Hatred does not belong in law making. Transgender Iowans deserve to be protected. Laws like these are hateful, have no grounds, and should fill those who write and pass them with immense shame. Do better.

01-27-2024

Lynette Lewis []

I strongly oppose this bill.Similar to gender and sexual orientation, the sexual identity of a person is not a disability. The sexual identity of an individual has no bearing on their ability to execute the responsibilities of a job, to be financially responsible or to be a respectful and responsible neighbor. The civil rights of all Iowans should be maintained and in particular the rights of those that may not be of the majority and therefore at risk of discrimination. This should include those who may have a sexual identity that does not match the majority.

01-27-2024

Augustine Shija []

Transgender, gender nonconforming, gender fluid, gender expansive or agender Iowans deserve the same civil rights protections as everyone else. This bill threatens to put so many people at risk for discrimination in accessing employment, housing, healthcare and educational opportunities. As a graduate counseling student, I believe allowing violence and discrimination based on gender identity represents a huge step back for Iowa and will have massive detrimental effects on the health and wellbeing of all community members (particularly the most vulnerable).

01-27-2024

Kristina Colson []

I strongly oppose this bill. Have you lost your minds? I am deeply disappointed that our representatives are spending their time working to harm our most at risk neighbors rather than use their power to lift them up. I strongly oppose HF 2082 and urge you not to move it forward. I do not approve of my tax dollars being spent on considering this ridiculous, hateful and discriminatory legislation.

01-27-2024

James Gruening []

I urge a "no" vote on HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. There is simply no place in our society for discrimination of any type and it's disappointing to see our legislature even considering a bill such as this. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-27-2024

Barb Niccum []

The continued attacks on LGBTQ+ people need to STOP. This bill is in direct violation of Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes transgender Iowans too. The fascists Iowa GQP need to stop the HATE and think about what their GOD would want them to do...but clearly they are 'republican christian' and 'original christian'...

01-27-2024

Kristin Gordon []

As an Iowan and an American, I strongly oppose this amendment. The idea that people can't be who they want to be or identify as who they want to be goes against the American idea of being free. Labeling transgender individuals as disabled is a deliberate and malicious move to further increase the perception that transgendered people do not deserve the same freedoms as cisgendered people. Transgendered people do not deserve to be discriminated against because they make people uncomfortable.

01-27-2024

Lindsay Piper []

Civil rights for everyone! Why are we removing protections? Why are we moving backwards? Iowa legislators need to stop wasting time and resources on hating LGBTQ people and focusing on the plethora of real issues in our state.

01-27-2024

Amy Calhoun []

As a proud Iowan and deeply observant Christian, I would like to state my opposition to this bill. Transgender Iowans suffer greatly from prejudice and hate and are, like all Iowans, deserving of equal protection under the law.

01-27-2024

Steven Lischer []

Vote no. This bill negatively impacts many friends. They are some of the most capable and driven people I know. This bill infringes on their rights and makes their existence harder. Stop hurting and insulting Iowans. Vote no.

01-27-2024

Lisa Wahlin []

Until mid 2022, I spent the first 30 years of my life in Iowa. My wife and I moved out of the state for her work, and I was devastated to leave my home. We were going to move back last spring, but all of the anti LGBTQ+ rhetoric and laws were so bad we couldnt move back. Things have gotten even worse over the past year. I have met multiple people who left Iowa for the same reason. My therapist said she sees psychological stress in the LGBTQ+ Iowa population that is similar to what refugees have. Sit with that for a second. Imagine you grew up, went to college, volunteered, and worked in Iowa for your entire life. Suddenly your home becomes such a hostile place that you cant live there. My family and the majority of my friends are in Iowa.This is immoral. Transgender people are constantly under attack for simply living their lives. This is state sanctioned bullying. No one should be denied a home or good work/school environment for who they are or who they love. Rolling back these protections will result in a mass exodus at best, and blood on your hands at worst. Do the right thing and oppose HF 2082. Please.

01-27-2024

Jill Miller []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is appalling for any Iowan legislator to even consider for a moment taking away an Iowan's civil rights. Iowa is better than this. It is unprecedented, mean and draconian.

01-27-2024

Danetta Dobre []

I strongly oppose this bill. As a transgender person born and raised in Iowa, I am deeply frustrated by the backslide of civil rights in our home state. While I have begun to expect this kind of discrimination, I refuse to accept it. There is no place for bills like this anywhere in the US.

01-27-2024

Jamie Helmick []

As someone who does not fit into a nice near gender box, I strongly oppose this bill. Removing civil rights for any group, but especially a marginalized group like trans & gender diverse people, is a horrendous act and a terrible misuse of Iowans lawmakers time. There are many real issues that need to be fixed in Iowa. Our infrastructure is lacking. Our students are hungry. People cannot access affordable housing and healthcare. Our mental health care system in Iowa is broken and is the worst in the nation. The lawmakers spending time ripping peoples civil rights away instead of building up our states resources for any of the aforementioned issues are choosing the wrong things to focus on. If you ask most Iowans if they would rather have quality education, roads, bridges, and healthcare OR theyd rather have their tax dollars spent on legislating hate and hardship, which would they choose if they were being Iowa Nice?

01-27-2024

Lynn Hempe []

Shame on you!I agree with previous comments that this is not the Iowa I grew up in!The state has turned so red, so hateful to the LGBTQ+ community that I can hardly believe the hatred in your hearts!Not only this IA use to rank #3 in education and now they rank 33. No wonder as an uneducated state you stoop this low!

01-27-2024

Dallon Seedorf []

I strongly oppose the removal of gender identity as a protected class and the classification as a disability. Being transgender is not a disability, it is being who you were always meant to be. Imagine if you were forced to live your entire life being the gender other than you are now. Would you ever be happy? By taking these protections away, youre forcing people to live incorrectly just so they can survive. Youre forcing people into unemployment and homelessness because they are living their lives as God intended.

01-27-2024

Ella Hanner []

This bill directly removes rights from US citizens that deserve to be free, no matter who they are. Also, the implications of this bill are that transgender people do not deserve basic human rights or decency, which puts them at risk of violent acts committed by violent people. Dehumanizing transgender people will not solve any problems, it will simply create more. Please vote no.

01-27-2024

Lora Fraracci [Citizen ]

Stop running this state into the ground. Nobody wants to move here nobody wants to insure people here. We've got major environmental issues happening and hungry kids. Do your jobs. Develop and thoughtfully pass bills and legislation that help every Iowan. Stop acting like it's nineteen seventy by banning books and queer people. You are so embarrassing.

01-27-2024

Debra Mitchell []

I have been a Republican for most of my adult life. I keep hoping for a change in the politicians and their inclination to target groups of people and try to take away freedoms or protections by changing laws for no apparent reason. I feel the former president has made it OK to bully others. Make no mistake this legislation amounts to bullying. Im against this and suggest that the people who are proposing this concentrate on legislation that the public is in favor of and not just mean.

01-28-2024

Landon Ball []

You don't know me as a person, or know my name, but yet the "need" to harm me directly feel warranted. I have never done anything to anyone other than exist, and that is deemed as a threat.Please find it in your hearts to realize transgender individuals are just trying to love their lives, and be productive members of society. We are not trying to cause harm or be a threat to anyone. We just want to live.Removing this protection is against human rights, and would cause direct harm to many transgender Iowans. Please do not remove this protection.

01-28-2024

Teresa Galluzzo []

Please vote no on HF2082. This legislation harmful to transgender Iowans, and to all Iowans. Discrimination harms those who are discriminated against and those doing the discriminating. Please choose to work on issues that would actually improve the lives of Iowans like making sure everyone has access to food, housing, education, and a way to make a living in a healthy environment.

01-28-2024

Barbara Burnham []

Please vote no and end this waste of taxpayer money. Iowa has real issues and problems that need solved. Iowans are not interested in these political games. Ya'll are so out of touch! Please stop this nonsense and work towards helping Iowans. We all are sick to death of it. People proposing bills like this should be fined for government waste.

01-28-2024

Alyson Browder []

This proposal is hateful and abhorrent. LGBTQ+ people are not "disabled" and to suggest so is asinine. It also opens up scary implications for women's rights, as transgender or nonbinary identities are not the only gender identity that exists. Removing gender identity as a protected class also allows for easier discrimination against women as we have historically seen. Please come to your senses and reject this proposal.

01-28-2024

Benjamin Turner []

I strongly oppose this bill. As with most Americans, Family,Faith and Freedom are things I prize and cherish. I believe in the protection of rights for all Iowans to life, leberty and the pursuit of happiness. HF2082 is an affront to the rights and protections Americans have fought and died for. If enacted, this bill would violate the rights and protections of people in my family, my work, and my beloved state of Iowa.

01-28-2024

LaVonne Sternhsgen []

I am very opposed to this bill! You should be looking out for the rights of all people not just the ones you want to discriminate against. They are good people. Have wonderful homes and jobs. They are respected in their communities. What a name you want to give Iowa! Don't pass it!

01-28-2024

Seth Chadwick []

Please do not remove gender identity as a protected class from Iowa law. This violates the spirit of civil rights laws in Iowa to protect an individual from discrimination. Gender identity is not a choice, in the same way that gender and race are not choices.

01-28-2024

Kathi Bower []

DO NOT remove protections from Iowans! Every human no matter their race, creed, gender identity, etc DESERVES the RIGHT to be protected. Removing any of these protections is a slippery slope to denying the right of people to their autonomy, and civil rights that were given to them as citizens of the United States!!

01-28-2024

Elizabeth OLoughlin []

Civil Rights is one of the most important things in our society. Regardless of various backgrounds and beliefs, every human deserves the right to be human and avoid discrimination. I am a healthcare worker whether I am working with a patient who is transgender or someone who is part of the KKK, I give them the best individualized care I can. We must keep all aspects of Civil Rights in place. Please, find in your heart to recognize our shared humanity. Now, more than ever, we must find connection between one another and move forward in peace to make this country and state the best we can be. We can still have disagreements, but we can have conversations and treat each other with respect. I URGE you to please keep this in mind and vote no toward this bill.

01-28-2024

Austin Evens []

This bill needs to stop and make it any further. This is the start of removing freedoms from individuals and giving government unnecessary power. This would just be the start to the unraveling of laws put in place to reduce discrimination on classes of people. So I ask you kill this bill and never bring it back.

01-28-2024

Katherine Beane Hanson []

It is unconscionable that this subcommittee will even be considering stripping a protected class of its protected status under the law in the state of Iowa. If we really believe in the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness that is promised in the founding documents of this country, then this must apply to everyone, every time. This includes people of all genders. Regardless of your personal feelings about transgender people, approving this change flies in the face of everything that makes us American.Please, do not advance this immoral, prejudicial bill. Do not send it to the floor.

01-28-2024

Mary Chipman []

Iowa is a beautiful state with citizens who appreciate the beauty of accepting all people. Do not take away the rights of gender identity and disability under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Keep our state a beautiful place to live.

01-28-2024

Dana Atwood-Blaine []

Why would Iowans want to make it legal to discriminate against people who are transgender? What possible positive outcome would come from that? It seems that this bill would actively work to destroy the integrity of our social fabric, to selectively try to remove people from our society who SOME people don't like. That type of slippery slope has led to acts of unspeakable evil against groups of people. All are part of our communities. All deserve respect and protection. This is the United States of America, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. This is a BAD BILL.

01-28-2024

Austin Brown []

I vehemently oppose this proposed bill.It's an attack on the rights of a minority population, who does not deserve to be singled out and oppressed in this way. Trans people have enough struggles just to survive, the state government being an enemy and not protecting them is contrary to its purpose.

01-28-2024

Teresa Baustian []

I am posting my comment in the strongest opposition to this bill that I can reduce to writing. Our transgender family and neighbors are a very small demographic group, with no political power and it shows daily as politicians devise more and more plans to make their very existence intolerable. Of course transgender people are susceptible to employment discrimination, to housing discrimination and to being excluded from places of public accommodation. It doesn't take any imagination to see this and anticipate even more, given the rhetoric that we've seen coming from the Iowa Statehouse. It appears that this bill confuses gender nonconformity with gender dysphoria. Gender nonconformity is not a disorder; it is simply a condition. A modicum of reading from reliable sources would have informed the sponsor of this bill. It is no tradeoff that the bill purports to include gender dysphoria, specifically, as a disability within the civil rights laws. The critical element of gender dysphoria is the presence of clinically significant distress associated with the condition of gender nonconformity. This bill very intentionally seeks to exacerbate the distress for people with gender nonconformity, by denying them protections of the law with regard to housing, employment, and public accommodations. I urge the legislature to cease this persecution of transgender Iowans.

01-28-2024

Abby Bottorff []

As a mental health counselor who grew up in Iowa as a young queer kid, I am absolutely appalled at the recent attempt from legislation to rid LGBTQ+ Iowans of civil rights and protections. Iowa has been home too many queer individuals throughout history, whether or not lawmakers think that is the case. We have always existed here. I work with the queer community and I live and love my personal queer community here. Stop dehumanizing us in the name of God who called on you to love your neighbors. I urge you to not make Iowa a state for mockery in the history books when we look back in 20 years wondering how cruelty like this could have even been proposed in legislation. This is on the wrong side of history, we cannot allow this to progress.

01-28-2024

Grant Wilson []

This is a confusing, unnecessary bill that will add no value to the quality of life of transgender iowans and appears from commentary by Jeff Shipley to be using disabled iowans as a prop or cudgel, as a near pejorative. This bill insults both transgender iowans and disabled iowans in a clean sweep of demeaning public statements by Shipley. Painting a class of citizens as disabled with a cavalier catchall flattening of the disabled category solves no problem and insults everyone.Essentializing a class of citizens as mentally ill has historic antecedents, from junk race science to assigning blame for gay citizens to "sexual confusion." It simultaneously stigmatizes the disabled as a vague bucket for politicians to sweep their undesirables into based on partisan whimIts ugly. It has no basis in subject matter expertise. Its not iowa.

01-28-2024

Tracy Meginnis []

I absolutely oppose this bill moving forward. The transparent purpose of this bill is to sneakily skirt existing civil rights protections for an entire identity group and, ultimately, legislate them out of existence. It has no benefit to Iowans and shows a fundamental disrespect for our state's and nation's principles.

01-28-2024

Mollie Hammer PT, DPT []

I am strongly opposed to HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. This is not only a civil rights violation but it is also categorically false. Transgender individuals will not be protected and can be denied basic necessities such as an housing, loans, or employment. This is discriminatory. As a health care professional it is my duty to treat any individual in my care. Please care for your constituents by voting "no" on HF2082.

01-28-2024

Jaspyn Mixdorf []

As a transgender nonbinary individual with a transgender sibling, this would directly impact our lives and many other transgender Iowans in a negative way. There's no telling if we would be able to find work, places to live, healthcare, and more. We're human beings too, with hopes, dreams, and aspirations. All we're doing is living our lives day by day. Is that too much to ask, to live one's life? Because this bill, especially if it passes, is making the answer a definitive "yes."

01-28-2024

Kim Mayer []

Please vote NO on this bill! Being trans is not a disability and all Iowans deserve protections under our laws regardless of race , religion, or sexual identity! Make our state a welcoming place for all..not just a chosen few There are bigger things to worry about in our state and this is NOT one of them

01-28-2024

Kim Mayer []

VOTE NO!! Being transgender is not a disability! Protect all people of Iowa under the law regardless of race,religion,or sexual identity!!Iowa used to be a welcoming place..lets make it that way again! Represent ALL Iowans and worry about more important issues in our state..this is not one of them!

01-28-2024

DJ Davis []

Re: Stripping critical protections in employment, credit practices, public accommodations, education, and housing from persons whose gender identity includes transgender.I oppose this bill. In the Golden Rule, some form of which is held by every major religion, We should do unto others as we would have done to ourselves. And our national Constitution agrees, in fact by concern for civil rights for all. So this Naziinspired (?) removal of rights would, clearly, be unconstitutional (re US Constitution) and suggest a slippery slope of later bills to come, such as removing civil rights from others who are not white males.

01-28-2024

Elizabeth Brant []

As a citizen and voter of the state of Iowa, I would like to add my voice against removing gender protection under the Iowa Civil rights law. Trans people deserve equal rights as a part of our citizenry. As long as they do face discrimination because of who they are, they should be protected. Obviously, they still do. I see no reason to pass HF2082.

01-28-2024

Chase Krug []

I am strongly opposed to this bill which strips basic civil rights from transgender individuals in the State of Iowa. This transphobic legislation is antithetical to Iowas civil rights history and ethos in expanding rights for all people to be treated equally under the law. It is shameful that this bill is being considered, and the subcommittee should vote no to advancing it any further.

01-28-2024

Darique Rodriquez []

I would encourage state lawmakers to avoid participating in national culture wars. This type of legislation is discriminatory and enables bullying. HF 2082 is a Bill in Direct Violation of Title VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act. Voters are paying attention to everything that you are doing.

01-28-2024

Meredith Paker []

Im asking legislators to oppose this bill. This bill sends a signal that Iowa is not a welcoming place for people to move to, work in, or raise their families in. Beyond even the direct harm to our trans community, this kind of legislation will make Iowa fall behind neighboring states economically and culturally, with longterm negative consequences.

01-28-2024

Cole Lindaman []

Bills like these serve no purpose but to discriminate. Setting the precedent of removing a group from the protected class of civil rights can only lead to the stripping of rights from more people. Instead of letting Iowans be free to live their own lives, this bill does nothing but allow hateful people to get a pass to oppress others. While the author of this bill may think that this behavior is ok, it simply is not. This bill is pointless, cruel, and makes Iowa worse.As a young adult who has lived in Iowa my entire life, I am becoming more and more disgusted with what we have become. If we continue on the path of exclusion, hate, and vitriol Iowa will become a dying state. I know of many people who do not want to remain here because of this hateful environment that bills like these create.Instead of the culture war issues that keep getting shoved down our throats by out of touch politicians, let's focus on making EVERY Iowans' lives better.

01-28-2024

Valerie Sailsbury []

I and my family strongly oppose this bill. As the wife of a trans woman this would directly impact her and our ability to live normal lives in this state. I am appalled that civil rights violation is even being brought to the table. Please vote no.

01-28-2024

Heather Riley []

As the mother of a 24yearold transgender adult, I strongly urge the legislature to vote a hard "NO" on this ridiculous, needless legislation. This bill is 100% unnecessary to advance the lives and freedoms of Iowans. This bill is meanspirited and is in direct conflict with those nice "Freedom to Flourish" signs welcoming people to our state.I can assure you that members of the transgender community want no more than to live their lives like everyone else does and they are tired of being political pawns for fear and hatred. It must be so hard to feel attacked and singled out, which is what this bill will do. I love my child, sometimes harder because I know the world makes things difficult and complicated for the transgender community. Please, do not consider this bill any further than to the nearest trash can, which is where it belongs.I've attached our family's photo. As you can see, no one is scary, disabled, or in need of additional hate or segmentation. We love each other, encourage each other, and support one another, just as Iowans do.

Attachment

01-28-2024

Brette Deaton []

Please vote to uphold protections for transgender individuals and vote 'no' on this bill. Being transgender is not a choice and with the leading science supporting that transition is the best outcome for transgender folks, the law should extend civil rights and protections to them just as it would anyone who was born a certain way. You have an opportunity to protect your constituents in a time where trans people face many laws that put them at risk. Please help keep the rights that still remain to prevent discrimination against them. Thank you so much.

01-28-2024

Reyna Immerfal []

This is a disgraceful attempt to discriminate against Iowas, people. The minute we start rolling back civil rights protections where will it end? Gender Identity is not a disability, it is no more a disability then it is to be a woman. The person making the decision to identify should not be required to go to a doctor to get a forced diagnosis. We need to stop this bill and keep the current civil rights the way they stand.

01-28-2024

Ryan Weber [My school]

This will be fast, but literally why do government officials care what people identify as. And why would you want to take away someones civil rights that they got from being born in this country.

01-28-2024

John Metier []

Please refrain from further meddling with civil rights laws. The State is losing too many of our young already with the increasing intolerance of our political environment. It would appear that Iowa has a death wish. If you keep this up, you will get your dream come true

01-28-2024

JOHN CARR []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is in violation of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Further, what will it cost businesses to make "accommodations" for transgender individuals if they are classified as disabled? Will those businesses continue to support republican campaigns if this bill is passed given what they will have to pay for making "accommodations" and lawsuits? The GOP seems to have forgotten that money talks, but voters talk louder!

01-28-2024

Shirley Whiteside []

The fact that this bill has even been introduced is exactly the reason gender identity should remain a protected class. As Martin Niemller, a Lutheran pastor who eventually opposed Hitler famously confessed: "First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a Jew. Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me."I oppose the State of Iowa using any more energy sowing division, and instead would ardently support bills that advance public health and welfare, and care for the earth itself. This bill does absolutely nothing substantive or positive.

01-28-2024

Karen Potter []

From the Revolutionary War to the writing of the Constitution, the goal in forming this Nation and the principles it stood for is that no one person, nor small group of people could enact laws based on their personal preferences, beliefs or religion. A government can only govern by the consent of the governed, and that means ALL of the governed, not a select few. The purpose of laws should be to protect civil rights, never to take them away! And for no legitimate reason whatsoever! It also creates a dangerous precedent and a slippery slope! When one civil right is removed, others will follow!! What of the protections in place to protect people from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, religion ... what of disabilities, or age, or any number of other things? We are ALL citizens of the United States. We are ALL entitled to inalienable rights. I am vehemently opposed to this bill. And furthermore, there are FAR more important things this legislature should be focusing on than these ridiculous restrictive measures!

01-28-2024

Byron Plumley []

I strongly oppose this bill.Every person is entitled to basic civil rights. This bill is simply hateful legislation discriminating against transgender people. I hope our Iowa legislature will stop promoting hate toward the LGBTQIA community...our friends and neighbors.

01-28-2024

Elizabeth Danforth Richey []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is a disgusting and disgraceful. Its a waste of time and tax dollars to continue this and other similar attacks on valuable members of Iowas communities. Please focus your time on actual challenges our state is facing.

01-28-2024

Sam Zimmerman []

This proposal is a disgrace to Iowans and our history. Taking pride in our communities includes EVERYONE. Passing this bill would signal to the rest of the country that Iowa is ashamed of its own hardworking residents, that our state legislators dont care about anyone but themselves. Transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people always have been and always WILL be here. We will not be silenced by ignorance and hatred no matter how hard you try.

01-28-2024

Amie Carfrae []

We hold these truths to be selfevident, that ALL men are created equal that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Do you know what this bill will do to all men? If transgender HUMAN BEINGS are not protected, it will cause the following: Discrimination in the workforce. This will drive unemployment, welfare, and the use of other government programsDepression, resulting in suicide or suicide attempts, which means more people using the resources of ERs and mental health facilities (both are already at capacity)Increased violence and physical harm if transgenders are no longer a protected class,it will give homophobes even more reason to act like uncivilized animals.

01-28-2024

Johnny Rogers-Smith []

I urge you to oppose this bill. Not only is it unconstitutional, it displays a willful ignorance of the topic it claims to address. Even a cursory search of the American Psychiatric Associations documentation reveals that the presence of gender variation is not pathological, and gender identity disorder does not exist in the DSM 5. Ones gender identity, and the expression thereof, is not the pathology the irrational hatred and targeting of transgender folks is.

01-28-2024

Anna Kronenberger []

All people are entitled to equal protection under the law. Every citizen regardless of gender identity, sexuality, race, or religion is due safety, security, civil liberties, and the right to live authentically. This bill is a medium of hate. Hate has never been a solution. Please eliminate this hateful bill.

01-28-2024

Harlan Petty [Petty Farms]

Strongly oppose this bill, and feel it is hateful. I would be ashamed of HF20820, and if it would come to vote would hope it would be soundly defeated. I do not see any "positives" in this legislation, and suggest the sponsor look for other proposals to make our world a better place, or get government to run more efficiently.

01-28-2024

Kelly Danilson []

Committee members, no matter what side of the aisle you sit, the answer is NO!!! Oppose this bill. It is horrific and disgusting that this bill has even been presented. For any Christian to support this bill, it would be hypocritical. We are called to love our neighbors, to love as Jesus loves us. Stop letting your fears and phobias attempt to dictate the lives of others. Educate yourselves. Seek to understand. Stop hurting our families, friends, and neighbors. It is NOT Iowa nice.

01-28-2024

Megan Brown []

Vote "no" to HF2082, a draconian and pointless bill. Removing gender identity as a protected class in the civil rights act does nothing but bring harm to Iowans. It puts our transgender friends, colleagues, neighbors, and loved ones at risk of being denied basic protections simply because of their gender identity. Every person deserves the protection of the law and the right to live, work, and thrive in this state without discrimination. Keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-29-2024

Deborah Burow []

Transgender should NOT be a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Human beings are created male and female. Transgenderism is a choice by the vast majority who ascribe to this preference. And those individuals labeling themselves as such are insisting that I affirm their delusion and grant them protection under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. I reject that and want that protection removed from Iowa law via legislation. In addition I do NOT want it designated a disability with special rights and privileges.

01-29-2024

Moria Brown [Retired teacher]

All people are created equal, right? Unless youre a minority without a voice in the Iowa legislature at the moment. By making it lawful to discriminate against ANYONE, let alone a vulnerable and scared part of our population, you are committing a terrible error in judgement. Our LGBTQI population is just as important to our society as you are. Why would you want to strip them of their human dignity and rights? I simply do not understand your reasoning. You are not representing my goals for this state, but we are stuck here. Our house is paid for and were too old to start over. Its no wonder young people want out. Please, please do not pass this terrible discriminatory bill.

01-29-2024

Kate Aubrecht []

I dont live in Iowa, but members of my extended family do, including their transgender son. If the Iowa legislature removes gender identity from civil rights protection, he could legally be denied loans or leases. Transgender Iowans need to have their civil rights protected.

01-29-2024

Dani Ausen [Dani Awesome]

This bill is dangerous. The Iowa Legislature is meant to protect the rights of all of the state's residents, and this does exactly the opposite. There are plenty of important issues that the legislature can and should be addressing during the session. Instead, we have attack after attack after attack on a tiny minority of our citizens, the most vulnerable people in the state. Transgender Iowans aren't hurting anyone. Taking away their rights isn't going to make this state better. Iowa would be the first state in the nation to even do such a thing. What a horrible distinction that should be.

01-29-2024

Hanna Lytle []

I strongly oppose this bill. Hate has no place in Iowa. This is not how we show up for our fellow Iowans. This is not how we make this state a great place to live, work, and raise a family. STOP THIS BILL.

01-29-2024

Lori Hinton []

It is unconstitutional according to the 14th amendment to deny persons equal protection under the law. Period. It is also unkind and evil to purposely hurt human beings in such a way. Keep your outdated and antiquated thinking out of legislation.

01-29-2024

Michael roberts []

This bill is part of the GOP war on trans people so I harbor no illusion that law makers will actually listen to citizen comments, but I feel compelled to speak up anyway.Legalizing discrimination on the basis of gender identity will have very real harms for an already marginalized and victimized group of citizens.It is shameful that lawmakers view stripping civil rights protections from Iowans as a greater priority than doing anything to remedy the very real problems their citizens are facing like polluted waterways and dwindling rural communities.

01-29-2024

Angela Pittman []

I was born and raised in Iowa. I had been very proud of that fact. Remember our slogan, "Iowa Nice"? What has become of that? There is so much hatred these days. This bill would feed that hatred and allow individuals to be mistreated just for being themselves. If you claim to be Christian, then consider if your God truly would approve of your actions. Please stop this bill from moving forward. It is a disgrace.

01-29-2024

Matt Lorch []

As a former resident for the last 15 years that left the state due to legislation like this, I'm really appalled at the changes to this bill. This would cause thousands of residents to be at risk to lose their job, housing, medical care, and potentially more for them just being their selves. I understand it's hard for folks to not understand others struggles or adversities if you haven't lived them, but this is clearly punitive and punishing to trans Iowans. Please reject these changes. This is putting so many Iowans at risk of harm or extremely diminishing their quality of life.

01-29-2024

Frank Beard []

This is a hateful waste of time, and anyone supporting it should be ashamed of themselves. State representatives should be focused on improving everyone's quality of life, not picking on one group and trying to make their lives worse. This is a good reminder to those of us who are moderate and busy with our lives that maybe we do need to pay more attention to what's happening at the statehouse, because clearly these clowns who've been elected are not serious people.

01-29-2024

Kaylara Hoadley []

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed removal of gender identity rights from the current Iowa bill. Ensuring equal protection and rights for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, is fundamental to a just and inclusive society. Stripping away these rights not only perpetuates discrimination but also undermines the principles of equality and dignity that our nation strives to uphold. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and have their identities recognized and protected under the law. I urge you to consider the importance of upholding the rights of the transgender and nonbinary community, fostering an environment of acceptance and equality in our state.Sincerely,Kaylara Hoadley

01-29-2024

Jackson Kluesner []

The equal protections clause of the 14th amendment is exactly as it sounds. It ensures equal protections and rights for all americans, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, etc. This bill is a direct violation of the clause, completely disregarding the precedent set before us. If we do not use precedent in this case, it would be a gross miscarriage of justice. It would fail to protect ALL Americans and be a clear demonstration of discrimination and persecution. This bill would actively strip the rights from our Transgender community, essentially treating them as less than human. Regardless of your opinion on gender identity, this is a cruel and intentional attempt to strip rights away from those who are different. It is an active effort to suppress and discourage people from being themselves, as they see fit. Do Not pass this bill, as it means the end of everything this country has fought for, for the last 100 years. Justice and Liberty for all is recited in elementary schools every day, yet our legislators want to remove these natural born rights from our citizens.

01-29-2024

Annette Hammes [Iowa resident]

I wholeheartedly oppose HF2082 and am appalled that you are even considering taking rights away from any group, much less a group which already faces so many challenges. Trans people do not also need to be turned down for housing because of prejudice, lose jobs because of phobic bosses and coworkers, or be rejected for health insurance. We are going backwards, Iowa. Start with rejecting this bill and then work on getting the governor out of office. They both go against what Iowa stands for. Since when can civil rights be taken away??!

01-29-2024

Devin Brown []

Making it legal for companies to discriminate against people for their gender identity is disgusting. If you support this bill, it tells me you want to exclude trans people from society, and that is disgusting. I oppose this bill, as should everyone with an iota of empathy.

01-29-2024

Sophia Dautremont []

This bill would be in direct violation of the Constitution of the United States and a direct violation of the Constitution of Iowa. This is a bill filed by hatred and xenophobia which is no way to run a country or state. This bill protects no one and actively harms many, many others.

01-29-2024

Meredith Murphy []

I am extremely opposed to this bill. I moved to this state from out of state, and legislation like this is why people leave Iowa. I value gender identity as a protected class and will continue to voice my opinion until this bill is struck down.

01-29-2024

Jill Faucher []

I strongly oppose this bill. If this bill passes, who does it help? Please ask yourselves what problem you are solving if this bill were to pass. The answer is nothing, you will have solved nothing. On the flip side, there will be a lot of people hurt by passing this bill. Please work to serve all Iowans and vote NO on this bill. When all constituents win, Iowa and its economy wins. It seems that there is a lot of backwards thinking at the state house. I encourage you all to start providing solutions that will help Iowa, not hurt Iowa and the all the diverse people who call it home.

01-29-2024

Mary Mason []

Gordie Felger said it well in his comment Our Liberties We Praise and Our Rights We Will Maintain (for Some) The prospect of singling out a group of Iowans and stripping away their Civil Rights protections is shameful. I wish I could also say that its unAmerican. Love your neighbor as yourself. and do not support HF 2082.

01-29-2024

Andrew Boge []

This is a notsoblatant affront on the civil rights of ALL Iowans. It does however also directly target LGBTQ+ Iowans, in particular the Iowa trans community. Eliminating gender identity as a protected category would allow people, organizations, and businesses to discriminate against trans, nonbinary, and other queer Iowans without repercussions. All Iowans are guaranteed fundamental rights regardless of the the beliefs of a few legislators. I strongly implore that this bill be voted against.

01-29-2024

Megan Bannister []

I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to vote "no" on HF2082. Not only does this filing strip away the rights of Iowans, but it also sets a dangerous, unconstitutional precedent for the lack of protection for the basic rights of Iowans for decades to come.

01-29-2024

Ashley Parker []

As a mental health thearpist who treats individuals of all gender identities, this bill will cause irreparable harm to my clients and their families. This will leave the door wide open for discrimination on the basis of employment, housing, etc putting an already vulnerable population in harms way and at risk of homelessness or financial instability. The psychological warfare on the trans community has got to end.

01-29-2024

Kim MacLin []

I STRONGLY oppose the removal of the gender identity language. The civil rights act is meant to protect people's core identities from discrimination. Gender identity is a core identity. To remove this language puts Iowa even further out of step with common sense, science, and human decency.

01-29-2024

Tyler Pittman []

As Americans and Iowans, we have a right to life, liberty, and equal protection under the law. This bill is a clear violation of all those rights. Transgender Iowans belong here, and we deserve to be treated with the same dignity and respect as any other Iowa citizen.

01-29-2024

Vicky Brenner []

I strongly oppose HF2082. Iowa should be protecting the rights of all Iowans, not taking them away. No group should ever be considered less than, and all Iowans need to stand up against this blatant otherism that harms our fellow citizens. This legislation is dangerous and will hurt some of our most vulnerable, especially children. Im a retired public educatora former high school English teacher and this is exactly the kind of dangerous extremism used by the Nazis that we studied during our Holocaust unit.

01-29-2024

Janet Sanders []

I strongly oppose this bill and any other bill that takes rights away from any person. My belief in God has me pledge to strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.

01-29-2024

T DiLeo []

Congratulations Iowa and Elected Officials!Every Legislative session I am impressed by the radical bills being proposed, and I think "That's crazy! That can't pass. This is 21st century America." & "It can't get any worse." However, time and again I am proven wrong. I moved here because of the moderate political climate Iowa was known for, but NO MORE. I really underestimated the support of smallminded ideas and individuals.Look at the data. For instance 'Iowa is below average at retaining college graduates.'* This is not just about job availability here vs. elsewhere. Have you considered that it might be that educated people are choosing not to live in this political / social climate? My family will be joining this trend, and taking our advanced degrees and education skills to another, more friendly state. There are plenty of choices out there.Best wishes to you in your quest for a homogenous state, but be careful you might just get what you ask for?!?* Report from the National Bureau of Economic Research

01-29-2024

Mike Birmelin []

WOW! WOW! WOW!Removing civil rights and liberties from a select group of citizens?! But it is 2024 and this is the United States of America?!?Where have I heard of that happening before? Hmmm.SHAME ON YOU elected officials!!

01-29-2024

Brian Lehan Mackin []

This proposed bill does nothing but perpetuate hate. I am the parent of a trans identified adult and find it abhorrent. If this passes myself (tech professional), my doctorally prepared nurse wife, and my psychologist child will leave this state, so don't think that there wont be consequences of this unethical targeting of a vulnerable population. I have been a proud Iowan my entire life but this bill (and several others) are demonstrating that the state policies no longer reflect my moral values. I am vehemently against the passing of bill HF 2082.

01-29-2024

Benjamin Claes []

As an Iowan who recently moved back home to be near family, I am horrified by HF 2082. HF 2082 does not reflect Iowas long track record of respect and protections for minority groups. When I think of Iowa, my home, I am proud of our record on civil rights issues. Iowa was third in the nation to allow interracial marriage back in 1851(!), The University of Iowa allowed women to attend upon its founding in 1855. Iowa schools were integrated in 1868. In 1934 the first Mosque IN AMERICA was built in Iowa. In 1990 Tom Harkin helped author the Americans with disabilities act. And in 2007 Iowa became the third state to legalize samesex marriage. I had never been more proud of my state.This progressive legacy of acceptance, respect, and protections for atrisk groups goes right out the window with HF 2082. Life in Iowa is difficult enough for trans people without the state continually placing a target on their back and paving the way for businesses and other institutions to discriminate against them. As an Iowan, I am truly disgusted that this bill received a committee hearing. I beg you to strike this harmful bill down and concentrate on issues that Iowans actually want addressed. Why are we hacking away at civil rights when were facing a public health emergency with our disturbingly high cancer rates in Iowa? Why are we removing human rights when our bridges and roads are close to worst in the nation? I am incredibly sick of Iowas state legislature picking on lgbtq Iowans in order to score political points instead of actually HELPING IOWANS. Do your jobs and stop harming our most vulnerable populations! Iowan legislators used to view Iowa as a safe haven for the oppressed. What happened?

01-29-2024

Angela Speltz []

What are we even doing. This is a waste of time, money, and effort for a bill that is so horrendously antiAmerican, antiChristian, and just down right dumb. The people who proposed this bill make a mockery of democracy and religion and as an Iowan Im disgusted and disappointed, as you all should be. Shame on yourselves, work on something actually important, not what fearfueled puppet masters tell you to focus on.

01-29-2024

Carolyn Chesnutt []

Let's use the playbook from the city of Atlanta: the city too busy to hate. Iowa's leaders should focus on economic development, growth, and education and stop wasting time on the oppression of marginalized groups. Vote NO to HF 2082.(Our daughter had a dinner with nine transgender people in attendance. Eight of the nine transgender people stated they experienced euphoria, not dysphoria when they realized there was an option to live out their authentic gender identity. Gender dysphoria is NOT experienced by every trans person and, if managed, is not a permanent condition.)

01-29-2024

Paul Winer []

Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me. Matthew 25:45 There are people I love who are leaving Iowa for a more compassionate state. This bill being even proposed even further justifies their decision. I'm embarrassed to be in this state.

01-29-2024

Melissa Lehan Mackin []

I am a PhD prepared nurse who left Iowa in 2023 due to that the harmful policies that affect women, people of color, and sexual and gender minorities in Iowa that no longer reflected my human values. HF 2082 is another example of the eroding of civil and human rights by Iowa politicians who wish to climb the political ladder. I recognize that I had the privilege and resources to leave Iowa, but felt leaving a professional hole and paying taxes in a state that reflected my values became my only option to exercise my power to stand against the hate being promoted in Iowa policies. Just FYINew Mexico has signed into law protections for transgender people and abortion rights. The cost of living is similar to Iowa.

01-29-2024

Emily Harsch []

As a mental health therapist and community member, I urge a "no" vote on HF2082. I have seen firsthand how our community's mental health has been negatively impacted by antiLGBTQ legislation. This bill will negatively impact the physical and mental health of our LGBTQ neighbors, their families, and our allies. I am highly aware of increase in LGBTQ families and allies planning to leave the state due to these hateful attacks on LGBTQ lives. This bills put our community and state's future at risk.

01-29-2024

Anastasia Scholze []

I STRONGLY oppose bill HF2082. This proposed bill directly opposes the Iowa constitution which states: "All men and women are, by nature, free and equal, and have certain inalienable rightsamong which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness." It also directly opposes the US constitution, which ALSO states that all are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. All of these rights apply to transgender Iowans; PEOPLE who also LIVE in the state of Iowa and the US. If you begin taking away the civil rights and protections of transgender Iowans, what will you take away next? This bill puts transgender Iowans at the risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and other basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are; all necessities the Iowa constitution states all people have inalienable rights to.

01-29-2024

Jayson Shaffer []

What benefit to the people does this actually have? Name me a single benefit that this gives Iowans. All this bill does is fuel hatred and bigotry. Politicians are meant to make decisions about our state in order to best serve it's people. Those with gender identities that are different than what the bill writer's/supporter's stereotyped concept of an "acceptable" gender identity is, are also a part of Iowa and deserve the same rights and protections as anyone else. There is not a condition in which one life is more valuable than another. Denying and destroying the people and things we do not understand only allows for our country and state to fall into further disarray. And it makes our hearts smaller. I don't understand how someone can choose to take actions which only have the ability to cause harm to another person, as well as their communities and to our collective humanity. Those who support this bill have obviously decided in their hearts and minds that those who experience gender dysphoria and call themselves transgender are not considered human enough to be treated with common decency or respect, and I cannot imagine having to live with the kind of hatred inside where they are fine and accepting of another person being targeted for discrimination and hate crimes. Have we learned nothing? Are you all really that afraid of someone who has decided to live their lives in a way that feels congruent to who they are? How does that actually affect you? I very much recommend that those associated with this bill firstly sit down with someone who they are striping away rights from and critically question themselves as to why they feel the person in front of them deserves to be mistreated. What is it inside of your head and your heart that makes you want to hurt another person or allow another person to be hurt. Secondly, I'd like to again remind you that you serve the people. ALL THE PEOPLE. Even the ones you don't agree with. Even the ones you hate. Even the ones you don't understand. This bill is not about gender identity, this bill is about whether or not you see transpeople as deserving of their humanity. You are not God. You do not get to make that choice. God already did when that person was born. They are. I hope Iowa makes the right choice. I hope Iowa is better than this.

01-29-2024

Lindsay Mack []

How would you feel to have your civil liberties at risk simply because of who you are? I urge you to look deep within yourself and ask "why" you would push forward legislation that would hurt others in our state. What would it look like to embrace care and concern for the wellbeing of your neighbors and community?I am commenting to urge a "no" vote on HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.Please dig deep, ground into your humanity and do the right thing.

01-29-2024

Kaye Aoki []

This bill not only violates the civil rights of a group of individuals, in an alarming climate where other long established civil rights are under threat, but it singles out and targets a vulnerable segment of our societynot because they are "disabled" or are causing harm but simply because they exist. Transgender people are as diverse in their individual dreams and aspirations as any of us but are being singled out based on a perception that they are somehow a threat to society when that is far from the truth, as anyone who actually knows, lives and works among transgender people can attest. I work in a school with transgender students who deserve our protection and support, as do all children and adolescents everywhere as they wrestle with their identity and forge a healthy sense of who they are meant to be. They do not need to be pitied but they do deserve to be recognized as a representation of the myriad ways that humans experience themselves in our diverse, multicultural societyand they deserve to thrive.

01-29-2024

Jean Littlejohn []

Do not advance this bill. Every Iowa should be able to live in freedom. Would you come up to our trans kids and tell them that they are disordered and don't deserve to be protected from discrimination? Do you want to be remembered as people who reduced the rights of Iowans?

01-29-2024

Janice Binder []

On the bill pending about denying civil rights to trans people, this is in direct conflict with federal law. The Supreme Court in Bostock held that sex discrimination, as prohibited by Title VII, encompasses discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Court explained that to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity requires an employer to intentionally treat individual employees differently because of their sex. 140 S. Ct. at 1742.Executive Order 13988, Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation, 86 Fed. Reg. 7023 (Jan. 25, 2021) was issued in light of Bostock. Executive Order 13988 sets out the Administrations policy that all persons should receive equal treatment under the law, no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation. Citing the Supreme Courts holding in Bostock that the prohibition on discrimination because of . . . sex under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000e et seq. (Title VII), covers discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation, the Executive Order explains that Bostocks reasoning applies with equal force to other laws that prohibit sex discrimination so long as the laws do not contain sufficient indications to the contrary.Following the Executive Order's directive to federal agencies to review other laws that prohibit sex discrimination to determine whether they prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation, federal agencies have since adopted Bostock to include gender identity in their definition of sex discrimination. For example: 202113058.pdf (govinfo.gov) Federal Register/Vol. 86, No. 117/Tuesday, June 22, 2021/Rules and Regulations 32637 34 CFR Chapter I Enforcement of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 With Respect to Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Light of Bostock v. Clayton County"Research also indicates that higher rates of substance use and suicidality are partly explained by experiences of discrimination, victimization, and higher rates of depressive symptoms reported by transgender and gender diverse adolescents as compared to those who do not identify as transgender or nonbinary.4 For example, implementation of a statelevel nondiscrimination policy prohibiting private health insurers from discriminating based on gender identity appears to be associated with decreased or no changes in suicidality among gender minority individuals living in states that implemented these policies.5 " LGBTQI+ Youth Like All Americans, They Deserve EvidenceBased Care SAMHSA

01-29-2024

Jonathan Issa []

The attacks on the LGBTQ+ community that this state is prioritizing in its legislation is disgusting. The purpose of our government is to improve the lives of the people that live in our great state. This is not doing that at all, it is continuing to divide and discriminate against members of our community. Furthermore, if you want to classify this as a mental disability, the medical community should be consulted because politicians are NOT experts when it comes to health. Rather than focusing on this, why are we not doing more to help our fellow Iowans? Creating safe schools that bring people together and teach us not to fear our differences. Please listen to these Iowans and protect ALL of us, rather than only choosing to validate the existence of some of us.

01-29-2024

Meredith Stanbrough []

As the mother of a transgender teen, I strongly oppose this bill. Stop using our tax dollars to make laws that create problems rather than solve them. Who exactly benefits from this law? Who benefits from the antilgbtqia legislation that was passed last year? Your wallets?? Because I can assure you its not the people of Iowa. Its time to get back to solving problems that actually exist. Iowa has plenty of them and youd know it if you listened to your constituents.

01-29-2024

Emily Akker []

I strongly encourage you to look at the science behind being transgender before you classify it as a disability. Listen to the experts, not transphobia. I want my children to grow up in an Iowa that supports and protects their basic civil rights, no matter how they identify. This bill is promoting discrimination, plain and simple. Please chose to be on the right side of history.

01-29-2024

Wendy Musgrove []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is not in any Iowans best interest to strip civil rights to ANY IOWAN. What gives Legislation the right to tell people what they can and cannot do with their bodies or they will be labeled disabled by altering their body? Next will you move on to Iowans that have piercings and/or tattoos? This is discriminatory and racist! It's vulgar and disgusting. Either pass bills to enhance Iowans LGBTQ+ lives or leave them alone! They are no less human or no less of a person because of their gender identity. Employers are working hard for diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace while the government wants to strip certain type of people's rights. Grow with the times Iowa not back slide.

01-29-2024

Christina Gentzsch []

You MUST consider the broader impact of HF2082. Supporting this legislation may inadvertently contribute to the oppression of trans Iowans who, like you, are integral parts of our communities, workplaces, and families.Your influence holds the power to shape a more just and inclusive Iowa. I urge you to use it to ensure that trans Iowans can enjoy the same blessings of liberty that we all cherish.

01-29-2024

Deidre Wahlin []

How strongly can I state that I OPPOSE this bill! Anyone who professes that 'our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain ' should check themselves if they even consider discussing a group of Iowan's civil rights be removed from the Civil Rights Act. I can't even believe that I have to write this. To say it's 'an interesting conversation ' to debate someone's civil rights is offensive, to say the least. What does that even sound like?: "I don't like transgender people, therefore they shouldn't be treated equal to me or with dignity". Gender identity was added as a protected class in 2007 for a reason it's too easy to discriminate against a marginalized group, and transgender people are at even more risk now due to the dehumanizing rhetoric and legislation over the past few years. Just stop bullying LGBTQ people. Your constituents don't want it.

01-29-2024

Catlin Curry []

It is highly disappointing to see elected officials who are supposed to represent all Iowans, continue to attack the rights of Trans Iowans. Removing the civil rights protections with only make it harder for Trans Iowans to access their basic needs in the state. Stop legislating hate, and start doing work to actually take care of your constituents.

01-29-2024

Cecilia Smith []

Opposing the proposed bill to strip gender identity of its protected class status is an injustice to basic human rights. Such a regressive move not only undermines the principles of equality and nondiscrimination but also jeopardizes the wellbeing of countless individuals. Gender identity protection is essential to ensure that everyone, regardless of their gender expression, can live free from fear, harassment, and prejudice. Removing these safeguards sends a dangerous message that the rights and dignity of certain individuals are expendable, perpetuating a society that thrives on inequality. This bill must be vehemently rejected in order to uphold the values of justice and inclusivity that should be the cornerstone of our democracy.

01-29-2024

Brian Bruening []

This would be the first time in US history civil rights protection would be rescinded. Classifying transgender folks as disabled is a step backwards. I strongly urge the committee to not bring this harmful and meanspirited bill forward.

01-29-2024

Sherri Selin []

Iowa Nice and Midwest Hospitality are endearing terms that no longer fit our great state. I now hear comments like when did Iowa become so hateful. Our governor made a statement that she as a Grandmother understood the consequences of these bills. I am sorry but I also as a GRANDMOTHER think she is clueless! Our elected officials are in office to help and support citizens not make dangerous and abusive laws targeting minorities.

01-29-2024

Nick Covington []

Iowa HF2082 seeks to make Iowa the first in the nation to remove gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act and reconstruct it as a disability. This framing spreads harmful misinformation under the medical model of disability and undermines our shared goal of creating a safe and inclusive future for Iowas families and young people. We should understand that HF2082 is both cruel and unnecessary, as transgender identity is not a disability and disability is also a protected class under Iowa Civil Rights law.The medical model treats disability as a problem of impaired individuals who need to be fixed by medical intervention in the same way that, say, a cancerous tumor needs to be removed for a patient to be cured. This is certainly how our transgender friends, family members, and neighbors have been spoken of by many of our elected officials: as a problem to be solved or a malignancy to be surgically removed from the body politic. The proposed legislation deliberately ignores the social model of disability where the problem is not inherent in individuals; rather, disability is the product of an exclusionary, inaccessible, and disabling world. This is also the argument for using the identityfirst language of "disabled people", as in, people who are disabled by ableism in society. Solutions, then, must also exist in the world by making society more inclusive, accessible, and accommodating; not less. As HF2082 continues the political attacks for which 2023 set a record, many LGBTQ families in Iowa have chosen to leave rather than be subjected to further discrimination. Last year, I had to learn from the New York Times that a former Ankeny High School student of mine, a very talented young artist and thinker, fled with his family from Iowa to Minnesota. It was their sons safety that worried them, the article read, as Iowa Republicans passed antitransgender laws and used what they felt was dehumanizing rhetoric. College educated students already leave the state at higher rates than our neighbors, including one University of Iowa student who told KCRG last May, I dont feel safe outside of Iowa City. And I cant imagine myself living here long term out of fear for myself, potentially for children in the future and friends. Proponents of HF2082 believe that their legal recategorization will justify gender dysphoria as an individual problem, but by placing it within the medical model of disability they simply highlight their own role in reinforcing exclusionary and discriminatory policies and practices in creating an unhealthy environment for LGBTQ Iowans. It's a vow to trap people in a medicallybounded and legally controlled life as a transgender person in Iowa for which the only solution is to leave. The state of Iowa loses when young people take their talents, passion, and the fruits of their education elsewhere. So let us collectively oppose HF2082 and put it in the dustbin of failed, dehumanizing ideas we simply have no use for. Let us communicate to our friends, family members, and neighbors that their civil rights are secured and their full humanity is never up for debate in a statehouse committee room. Instead of an Iowa dominated by fears of exclusion and discrimination, let us move to create an inclusive and accommodating future for Iowa that young people can imagine living in freely and raising families of their own.

01-29-2024

Treva Bresin []

As a Transgender individual, I am 100% against you taking away my civil rights. I grew up saying the pledge of allegiance which states, "..with liberty and justice for all." This law would take away liberty and justice for all, and change it to a define a select group of people who the majority decides deserve it? That doesn't seem like freedom.

01-29-2024

Lois DeWaard []

I oppose HF 2082 for several reasons. First, this bill does not reflect the Iowa I experienced as a child and young adult. As a native Iowan, I am horrified and saddened that our state legislature would even consider a bill that would remove gender identity as a protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Code and allow discrimination of transgender people in housing, employment, education, and other areas of life. Second, this bill goes against Governor Reynolds new slogan for Iowa: Freedom to Flourish. Does her slogan only apply certain groups of people? Bills like HF 2082 send the message to transgender people that they are not welcome in Iowa as well make it more difficult for our businesses to recruit employees to live and work in Iowa. Third, this bill is very hateful and reflects the narrow religious beliefs of a small Christian minority in this state. Do they understand that other Christians such as myself and people of other religious faiths do not believe the same as they do? Our legislators are supposed to represent all people in their districts, not just a very small minority and vote the bidding of the Iowa Family Leader and Iowa Faith Coalition. These organizations do not reflect the beliefs and values of the majority of Iowans. Finally, removing this protection from the Iowa Civil Rights Code sets a bad precedent for the future and could open the door to removing more protections at a later date.

01-29-2024

Libby DeFoor []

Taking away civil rights protections from transgender people is a waste of government time and resources, it will help no one. People will remember this in November, and will actively work against any reelection efforts for those that vote "yes" for this bill. It actively hurt Iowans, and will make this state a dangerous place to live.

01-29-2024

Connie King []

This bill will legalize discrimination against transgender people. I do not understand why you (the writers of this bill) are so afraid of transgender individuals that you want to pretend like they don't exist. I have a transgender niececollege graduate, fulltime employee, lives in her own apartment, and lives her life as she sees fit. How does her life keep youand other Iowansfrom living life the way you wish? Ask yourselves how any transgender individual affects your lifeyou will find that you can live life very well without having to condemn others. By the way, referring to a transgender person as having a disability: are you going to decide two different colored eyes is a "disability"? A birthmark is a "disability"? A crooked nose is a "disability"? These are all attributes that people are born withjust like gender dysphoria. Calling gender dysphoria a "disability" mocks those who truly do have disabilities that make their lives more difficult.Do NOT let this bill out of subcommittee.

01-29-2024

Allison Jensen []

I have an older brother who is trans, and although I am not I still care for my family. I will be extremely sad if this bill gets passed, my brother wont be able to get a job and will be mocked and hurt by others who don't understand, I might not even understand myself but i will not hate those who will be themselves. I am sad I was born into a state where my brother cant be himself where he'll be judged. Many others agree with me, and to any trans people reading this, you are loved and in the book of humanity you should be loved and accepted forever.

01-29-2024

Oliver Young []

I hope this does not fall on deaf ears, I hope this is heard and carefully considered. HF 2082, which would remove Gender Identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This would encourage discrimination against transgender individuals such as myself. Despite your opinions on the transgender community, it is morally wrong to help the oppression and harm of those you do not like. If you truly believe in the American Dream, the dream that all are equal and thus have an equal shot at life, then you cannot go about irreparably harming an entire community via legalized oppression for no other reason than your feelings on them. I wish to not be oppressed. I wish to not be harmed for being myself. I wish to not be discriminated against. I wish to live fully. Do not help in the crushing of my dream.

01-29-2024

Rona Berinobis []

To propose and support this law intentionally erodes protections for transgender Iowans. Taking time and energy to focus in allowing discrimination through this law makes no sense and demonstrates hate and discrimination in bringing forward. As an active community advocate, consumer and executive, I strong oppose any such actions or laws.

01-29-2024

Alicia Claypool [Retired]

I am beyond sad that the Iowa legislature is considering reducing transgender Iowans to second class citizens. I and many others fought for years to protect the civil rights of LGBTQ+ Iowans and were thrilled when a bipartisan group of legislators added sexual orientation and gender identity to Iowa's civil rights code in 2007. I have seen how trans people have blossomed and thrive once they felt welcome and more secure, knowing state law had their back by prohibiting discrimination in housing, employment, credit, education and public accommodations. Trans people are children of God. Since they are created by God, in her image, why aren't they good enough for you? Do you think you're above God in seeking to take away their rights, just 17 short years since they were included in Iowa's civil rights laws. Our state used to be welcoming of the stranger but proposed bills like HF2082 will further drive trans Iowans and their families from the state, when we desperately need more students to fill our schools and workers to meet the workforce needs of employers. Please OPPOSE this hateful and harmful bill and turn your eyes to the real problems in our state, like clean water, underfunded schools, affordable child care and access to reproductive health care, to name just a few of the glaring problems in Iowa.

01-29-2024

Lesley Wright []

Trans Iowans are Iowans. Trans Iowans aren't going to go away. Trans Iowans deserve all the civil protections enjoyed by every other Iowan. Trying to deny them their civil rights is unconstitutional, and it's wrong.

01-29-2024

Barbara and Jim Dale []

We object to discrimination against any person, especially when it is legislated. We sincerely believe that ALL people are created equal, and it is our responsibility through our representatives to assure they are treated equally.

01-29-2024

Steve Rose [Indianola Ministerial Alliance, Crossroads United Church of Christ]

If anyone supporting this legislation is doing so under the pretext of being "Christian," learn to read your bible. Look for the underlying theme of love for all humans and how it precedes any other "rule" you might assume the scriptures decree.

01-29-2024

Karen Klaassen []

Stop consideration of this bill. There are so many more critical needs of you to consider, that this is a waste of time. There is no good argument for this bill to change our laws.I am an independent voter. My vote goes to legislators that focus on much needed changes to improrve the lives of ALL Iowans. This bill does not do that. Stop.

01-29-2024

Audrey Keith []

Dear Subcommittee,I strongly oppose this bill and I hope you will too. Disability protections are already too weak, folding gender identity into disability, besides being inaccurate, is also detrimental. Please spend your time on something that will materially benefit Iowans, such as raising the state's minimum wage!

01-29-2024

Ryan Pratt []

01-29-2024

Zoe Mahler []

This bill is an active attack on trans lives. As well as a serious threat to set precedence to allow for other protected civil rights to be "revoked". Myself, my family, my friends will not be silenced or erased.

01-29-2024

Emily Hansen []

I strongly oppose this bill, as should you. It's ridiculous that iowans would choose to slide backwards when it comes to discrimination laws. People are already hurting, why plunge deeper into the wound? Only someone who is truly out for themselves would vote for this, and those who would shouldn't hold a public service position.

01-29-2024

Becky Parrish []

NO!! Every person has a right under the constitution. How does one persons gender identity hurt you? Its none of your business regarding a persons gender identity. If you are so Christian conservative, ask yourself: What would Jesus do? He loved and accepted EVERYONE! The tax collector, the Good Samaritan, the Leper. And the list goes on. Just because you dont like something about someone you cant take their rights away to be human. Were in the 21st century now, not in the 1950s.

01-29-2024

Eric Saylor []

The legislature should be ashamed for even mooting the idea of rolling back rights for a marginal group, much less one of the most vulnerable populations in the state. If "gender identity" as a category is successfully challenged, then you can bet that other members of the LGBTQ community will soon find themselves in the crosshairs for similar discrimination. Moreover, reclassifying transgender identify as a disability is insulting and mean. Recognition of that group as one that cannot be discriminated against has no impact on any other population, and it is unacceptable that they should be denied financial access, housing, public service, or other rights simply because they exist.

01-29-2024

Darlene Wagner []

I vehemently oppose this misguided and cruel legislation that hurts an already marginalized group of people. Taking civil rights away from anyone is wrong, and I implore you to stop making decisions that hurt Iowans. This is not the Iowa that I know and love.

01-29-2024

Sheri Deal-Tyne []

As an Iowan and as a human being, I strongly oppose this bill. As the mother of a transgender child, it is heartbreaking that bills like this are being introduced anywhere, but especially here in Iowa. I implore you: do NOT pass this bill.

01-29-2024

Julianne Hackett []

This bill is NOT for the good of transgender individuals. Mr. Shipley has tried to spin the removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, saying that trans individuals will continue to get protections as disabled individuals because of their gender dysphoria. This is absolutely ridiculous. Not every trans individual experiences gender dysphoria, and this exposes an assumption from someone who knows nothing about the transgender experience.If you support this bill, you will be complicit in supporting future discrimination against trans individuals. Ask yourself if your morals and ethics align with a person who wants to remove discrimination protections from a group of individuals.

01-29-2024

Kalmia Strong []

I strongly urge you to stop this bill from moving forward. The idea of gender identity as a protected class in Iowa is disgraceful and against the basic values of our state and country. Why on earth would you remove someone's civil rights and protections based on a basic part of their identity?! I am a cisgender woman who has lived in Iowa for over 13 years and have made it my home. I want our state to protect *everyone* who lives here from discrimination. Forcing transgender people to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder in order to access basic legal protections is a totally unacceptable alternative.

01-29-2024

Cathy Layton-Johnson []

I strongly oppose this bill taking away protections from Trans Iowans. Stop this hateful action and the attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. Taking away Trans Iowans civil rights forces people to leave our state to find a safer place to live. Our state legislature needs to stop singling out the Trans community.

01-29-2024

Molly Dahlberg []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is unnecessarily cruel. There is no reason to remove protection from discrimination for people based on their gender or gender identity. Gender identity is a federally protected class, so passing a license to discriminate against trans people in the state of Iowa would be violation of federal law. A lawsuit will surely follow that will most likely be fought in court with state funds, meaning that these funds could not be used to help the people of our state. There is no reason to be scared of trans people or to make them feel less than human. Our state should be welcoming of all people and work to protect the most vulnerable.

01-29-2024

Michael Maxwell []

Growing up gay 20 years ago I was bullied mercilessly at the hands of fellow students who were empowered to bash on me by the steady diet of homophobic rhetoric spoon fed to them by their environment it always felt like those with the authority to stop this behavior condoned my bullies even if it was just by turning away and pretending not to hear when they called me slurs in school. Years later I had thought wed collectively progressed past a point where queer kids couldnt bring their concerns to a responsible adult without fear of persecution. Now I see hateful ideas like this getting traction, and it breaks my heart. What is the end goal of legislation like this? What should trans Iowans and their families do? Move? Die? Im so confused about why anyone wants to waste their one precious life on this Earth expending state energy and resources to spite others. Of course if this passes, it will be another of the endless liabilities our state government has exposed us to. Itll be taken to court, itll be ruled unconstitutional, and itll cost taxpayer money all while sowing confusion and adding fuel to the fires many queer people are already living in here in Iowa. Stop using queer people as your straw man. The legislators proposing this are no different from my playground bullies two decades ago, and no amount of respectability politics can hide the eugenics undergirding the ideology motivating this legislation. There are queer people in your life who are close to you, and if you think this isnt true that just means that the queer people in your life do not feel safe being themselves around you, and thats something you need to reflect on. No legislation that exists not to remedy a legitimate harm, but only to repress or impose undue burden upon a specific group can ever stand in this country.

01-29-2024

Alison Gowans []

Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. I have always been proud of our state motto. I strongly oppose this bill. Stripping Iowans of rights instead of upholding them? That is shameful. Please be better than that. Remember why you wanted to enter the legislature I hope it is to make the lives of Iowans better, not to go after a marginalized group.

01-29-2024

Sam Bass []

I opppse HF 2082, and all legislation that undermines LGBTQ rights. Growing up gay in Iowa, I felt that I needed to flee the state to have a decent life. When Iowa was one of the first states to legalize samesex marriage, it made me proud of my home. When I returned to Iowa after years away, I was mortified by the direction we were moving. Trans Iowans are under attack, and the attacks must end, first and foremost. But it is worth considering that these bills will chase out so many bright, young minds of all genders. Our lives are made better by trans Iowans. We must stop making theirs worse.

01-29-2024

Carrie Gosnell []

This bill will hurt our businesses in addition to our residents. Potential employees look at the diversity efforts of businesses and states before deciding where to work. I already know two young families and one single friend who have left the state due to laws passed in previous years and not feeling safe here. These were all people in IT, engineering, and medicine. This will only expedite the number of families fleeing our state. Stop killing our state.

01-29-2024

Heather Clark []

I strongly oppose HF2082 and ask you not to pass it out of your subcommittee.It is a dangerous bill that will remove civil rights protections for fellow Iowans, people who are just trying to live their lives. By removing protections you open up the possibility for discrimination by employers, landlords, and others. This could endanger their safety and liberty, as well as place their families in peril. Please lead with kindness and do your part to ensure a world that is safe and fair for people from all walks of life. LGBTQ+ Iowans deserve equal protection under the law. I implore you not to allow this to proceed.

01-29-2024

Laura Bertelson []

I strongly oppose this bill. Gender identity is the newest way to describe a condition that has always been with us. Unfortunately, the rights of real people are being used as political footballs as politicians grab onto this latest descriptor to show how liberal or conservative they are. We should be protecting the rights of all Iowans. Unfortunately, the school book banning legislation passed last year gives tacit approval to discriminating against people who identify as transgender. This is exactly why "gender identity" should continue to be named as a condition not to be discriminated against in hiring, etc. Please oppose this bill.

01-29-2024

Michelle Townsend []

I strongly oppose this bill. HF 2082 does nothing to benefit or protect any Iowan, it does not further any existing policies or laws. Its sole purpose is to attack and to harm a specific group of Iowans. This unconstitutional exercise in futility is a crusade to assert religious control over public policy, a fundamental breach of the separation of church and state. It displays a basic misunderstanding of gender identity, and uses an irrational fear of what is misunderstood to do deliberate harm. Stand up for all Iowans, vote no.

01-29-2024

Lyra VanLanduyt []

Iowa has a habit of focusing on bills that are ostracizing kind people who are effective members of our community already. I have seen people who have been proud of this state at a loss because they feel like they don't have support. They are all of a sudden having to be careful about what they say around others, and whether they are safe to be themselves. Bills like HF 2082 do not protect anyone, but it does create an environment of hate and hostility.

01-29-2024

Storm O'Brink []

Oppose this bill. Everyone here can see this is a thinly veiled attempt at removing any protections available to transgender people, but it has unintended consequences. Everyone has a gender identity, not just trans people. Cisgender people also stand to be affected by this if gender identity is removed from the state civil rights code. Do you want cisgender women to be discriminated against in employment, housing, and public accommodations? Do you want to waste tax payer dollars on yet another lawsuit? This hasn't passed the last several times it's been introduced because of the groups affected that you didn't intent to target. Gender identity has been in the civil rights act for 17 years and it has never been a problem. Everyone who talked to the sponsor (Jeff Shipley) of this bill knows he was fabricating evidence or concerns about discrimination against lesbian sex workers for this and most sex work isn't even legal in Iowa. He told us that he was concerned about children identifying as the moon and the implications that would have in regard to gender identity in the civil rights act. Issues of lesbian sex worker discrimination and "moon identified" children have never came up in regard to the Iowa Civil Rights Act even once. The bill sponsor thinks he can act like an internet troll from 4Chan to the the people he is supposed to be representing when he's asked about his bill. That should tell you everything you need to know about the intent of the bill. This bill was written with the intent to harm people and everyone knows it.

01-29-2024

Susan Benderson []

People who are Trans or have gender dysphoria are not disabled. There is no reasonable accommodation you could request that would be appropriate under the ADA. You are simply taking away civil rights granted to a class of protected individuals and attempting to replace them with a label that will not withstand judicial scrutiny. They will be left with nothing. Don't pass this out of committee.

01-29-2024

Barbara Helmick []

I strongly oppose HF 2082. I'm 73 years old and 40 years ago, I experienced the discrimination, the marginalization, the fear when I began living as an openly gay woman. Now, after much education and organizing, good policies are in place. I'm married, I'm accepted, my family and friends love me for who I am. Please continue to protect the trans community from the same terrible experiences.

01-29-2024

Theresa Johnson []

Please vote "NO" on this bill. We live in a democracy, not a theocracy. Trans people, marginalized and bullied, deserve to be protected by the law, not demonized by it. Iowa used to be a forwardthinking state, but that has changed. Now Iowa is experiencing a brain drain. It's laws like this that cause people to flee. Of course, should this pass, it will not stand up in court, so the state will waste money in a vain attempt to defend it. Please, please use your resources to provide affordable housing, access to medical care, to feed hungry people, and to address our terrible water quality problems. Laws to address real needs are what Iowans want.

01-29-2024

Linda Kent []

Dear Subcommittee members,HF2082 is a HATE CRIME in the planning stages. There is no reason for this bill other than to hurt fellow Iowans. I pray that you will not dignify this nastiness with even a moment's consideration! Thank you,Linda Kent50312

01-29-2024

Regan Wolbers []

I strongly oppose this bill. "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" is the state of Iowa's motto. Iowa has a proud tradition of upholding that state motto and being a leader in civil rights. The hate legislation that has been put forward last year and this year is shameful and nothing to be proud of. Dont let Iowa be a state that takes away civil rights.

01-29-2024

Tom Gruis []

I have transgender friends who are Iowans and care deeply about their communities. There is nothing about their identity that puts them at a disadvantage for participating in or contributing to society, i.e. they are not disabled. This hateful legislation, however, will allow others to withhold access to opportunities that cisgender people are afforded. Please, don't let this bill go to debate on the floor of the Iowa Legislature. It's disgusting.

01-30-2024

Taylor Canales []

Please do not allow HF2082 to pass. It is a severe threat to the civil rights of transgender Iowans. If passed, this legislation will remove gender identity as a protected class in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, eliminating crucial protections in employment, credit practices, public accommodations, education, and housing. Please do not pass this bill. Do not allow transgender Iowans to become targets for harassment and discrimination; even more so, without any repercussions.

01-30-2024

Jaime Bonner []

I ask you to oppose HF 2082 for several reasons. First, I am lucky to have trans loved ones and can say firsthand that trans folks enrich our lives and state. We should protect their rights. Second, Iowa needs to encourage all the bright minds we can to stay and flourish in Iowa. We will be the poorer without the trans folks who will leave if this legislation passes. Third, the onslaught of antiLGBTQ legislation last session and this session are hurtful and wasteful. Iowa faces real issues, please stop inventing issues that only hurt and divide Iowans.

01-30-2024

Tara Misra []

Trans rights are human rights and the HF 2083 is shameful. This file will hurt a marginalized community that deserves support and love. I am a parent of a trans person and I love them and wish for the Iowa State Legislature to stop hurting my family.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Oredson []

As the mother of a transgender daughter, I urge you to vote no on allowing this bill to pass out of committee. What possible justification is there for removing the civil rights of an entire population of people, besides hate? I don't see how the state of Iowa has a future if we continue to make it such a hostile place for queer people. If protecting basic human rights cannot persuade you, let economic considerations do the job. This behavior is not just driving trans people and their families out of state, it is repulsive to all people who prize equity and inclusion.

01-30-2024

Christianus Candidus [Truth]

This is quite possibly the most critical and existential legislation to be considered this session. Restraining evil and rewarding good are the mandates given to civil governments when God instituted them. Denying Gods order is evil. Denying truth is evil. God created male and female. The concept that we can choose from a spectrum of gender identities is a lie straight from the devil. This bill wouldnt even be questionable in a sane society.

01-30-2024

Kathy Sassatelli []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is a complete waste of time and taxpayer resources to debate removing an Iowan's civil rights. Please stop focusing on harming the LGBTQ+ population. Why does it matter who an Iowan loves, how an Iowan dresses, how an Iowan feels secure in their body? Please focus on improving education, positively impacting the economy, fixing potholes, public transportation, income and property tax reform, safety in our schools, legalizing marijuana for adult use, rising prescription costs, inflation, and on and on.

01-30-2024

Andrew Witter []

Jeff Shipley's antitrans bill is a piece of cruelty. Its only purpose is to increase human suffering. The state government's purpose is to protect Iowans, not destroy their lives. HF 2082 is vicious trash.

01-30-2024

Gwyn Bertocki []

I strongly oppose this bill! I am appalled by this drive to eradicate people just because they seem different. (News flash: they're not.) We are all humans, and no oneNO ONEshould have their basic rights taken away. This is nothing short of tyranny. There are so many ways you could be helping Iowans instead of harming them (gun control, hunger and homelessness, failing schools, health care). Please stop this madness and use your time and resources to make Iowa better, not worse. This is not the Iowa I grew up in; I never used to be ashamedor afraid for my friends and family.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Zamorano []

Iowa is the state that I call home, proudly. But, how can I be proud of state that is even concidering taking away right from human beings? We have come so far in the United States' growth, and yet Iowa seems to be taking a giant step back. Please do not pass this bill. Let Iowans remain proud!

01-30-2024

Justin Comer []

This is a very, very bad idea. There are no acceptable circumstances for revoking civil rights protections from anyone. This bill is an attempt to further marginalize a minority group and needs to be rejected.

01-30-2024

Patricia Hicks []

At the beginning of this legislative session I wondered what group of Iowans would be targeted. I thought there couldn't be many vulereable groups left. I now see that the answer is to double down on citizens that you have already targeted. At a time when you have put a target on the backs of the LGBTQ community, you want to remove what little protection they have left. Can you explain to me how a transgender person has hurt you? Why do you hate?

01-30-2024

Andrew Reed-Moutray []

There is no way to interpret the act of removing a category of people from the definitions used for civil rights protections as anything other than explicitly condoning oppression and violence towards certain people. This specifically opens up an avenue to deny basic human rights to anyone based on their outward expression of self, as well as interpretations of demeanor. There is no person of sound mind able to argue in good faith that narrowing civil rights protections is a good and just action.

01-30-2024

Mary Costello [Retired]

I strongly oppose this bill. As a born and raised Iowan, I was raised to believe in civil rights for all people. Removing protections for gender identity leaves all our citizens vulnerable. Where is the love and humanity that I still believe most Iowan posess? This is not the Iowa I grew up in. Love that neighbor!

01-30-2024

Krista Lindemann []

Stop this draconian policing of people's lives and focus on real issues: wealth inequality, underfunded schools, and failing infrasctructure. Using trans people to score political points with the worst of the Republican base does nothing but turn the eyes of history upon you with scorn.

01-30-2024

Kelly Mayhew []

Iowa has a wonderful history of being ahead of the nation on our acceptance of the Civil rights of EVERY human being. Removing the civil rights of a group of people who need its protection of the law would be inhumane, cruel, and detrimental to the health, happiness, and liberty of Iowans. HF 2082 is a page out of extremists playbook and does nothing to address actual human suffering in our state. People's gender identity harms no on other than the person themselves. We do not need to know their birth sex or their current genitalia to know they are a human. If this were to pass into law how un the world would you enforce it? You cannot have a genitalia police without assaulting someone. Enough is enough, stop this bill before it becomes the worst piece of legislation in Iowa and puts us in the historic record as monsters.

01-30-2024

Darien Walsh []

My name is Darien Walsh. I live in Fort Dodge with my wife, Amaia. Amaia came out as transgender last year. I wish everyone could meet her, because then they would see that she is just a regular person trying to live her best life. She has no "hidden agenda" as many tend to believe. I married her almost 7 years ago before her transition, before she even knew she was trans. The difference has been night and day. She is so much better off now mentally, physically, and emotionally. She is not accepted by her own parents for being her true self. Her dream is to become a fulltime musician, which she has been climbing towards the entire decade I've known her. I've helped her break so many barriers, and I couldn't be more proud. Right now, she is working at Iowa Central Community College as an adjunct music teacher and quit her day job to pursue music full time. I could continue on and on about Amaia, but the main reason I leave this comment is to urge a "no" vote on HF2082. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. In my opinion and based on my personal experience, being transgender is just like being white or black. Meaning, it's not something people choose. Amaia was born this way, and if she hadn't transitioned, I would have lost a spouse. The Civil Rights Act of the 1960s ended segregation in America. Following that, interracial marriage wee decriminalized, and in the mid 2010s, samesex marriage was decriminalized. Ensuring the rights of transgender Iowans is simply the next step in I'm providing ALL Iowans and Americans with the freedoms and rights they deserve. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-30-2024

Katherine Imborek []

I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to vote in a manner that ensures it does not make it out of subcommittee. Iowa current affords protections against discriminatory practices on the basis of gender identity and joins 22 other states, and an additional 7 states that explicitly interpret language around sex discrimination to include protections based on gender identity. If this bill becomes law, and the words "gender identity" are removed, Iowa will be alone atop of list of states that continue to pass legislation attempting to invalidate humans who espouse an identity that differs from the majority. This bill is hateful and targets some of the most vulnerable among us those who, even with the current protections, still suffer from systemic discrimination in areas of housing, employment, and public accommodation. The passage of this bill into law will result in more and more Iowans who do not identify with the majority culture (straight, cisgender, white, Christian) choosing to leave for a safer and more welcoming place. This is not the Iowa we want. Please vote no during the subcommittee hearing.

01-30-2024

Katie Carlson []

One has a long and storied history of being one of the first states in the nation to offer protections to marginalized groups. With this bill, Iowa would take the role of being on the of the first states in the nation to legislate discrimination against one of the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in our state. This bill is on the wrong side of history and it should not become law. Gender identity has been recognized as warranting legal protection in the state of Iowa since 2007. Our legislation should take us forward, not backward; yet by removing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, we will be taking a giant step backward. This is not necessary. No harm has occurred since the inclusion of gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act over 15 years ago, yet making this bill a law will cause great harm. Our representatives are supposed to protect Iowans, not harm them.

01-30-2024

Izzy Kippes []

This legislation will remove civil rights protections for transgender Iowans, please vote no! Jeff Shipley claims that the disability classification will allow for additional protections for trans people in his conversations with voters, while his peers seem adamant that this legislation would eliminate protections for trans people, and that doing so would be a good thing. The stories that supporters of the bill reference describe sporting events or changing rooms, stories of people feeling uncomfortable having to theoretically be around trans people. Meanwhile, trans people are at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more, simply because they appear transgender. While supporters of the bill are concerned with cisgender people being upset about pronouns, trans people face these real, material discriminatory practices that the current legislation can be used to fight against. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.Thank you for your time!

01-30-2024

Max Valadez []

I think its absolutely vile that you are trying to take away the protected right of someones identity, whether its gender, sexuality, or even race. That goes against the Civil Rights Act and what these groups of people have fought for. If this happens now, no one in these groups will hold back in trying to get those protected rights back.

01-30-2024

Clayton Dryden []

This motion is not only unconstitutional, it is inhuman and wicked. Iowans' lives are being scraped dry by corporate entities and all our legislature can do is start trying to ruin the communities that need support. Gender Identity is as important as any other aspect of humanity and it must be protected! Iowans are fleeing the state and as the line gets pulled tighter and tighter for what the state allows you to be, to feel, to say, soon you will have no one left!

01-30-2024

Lauren Kanner []

Please protect the rights of all Iowas and do NOT pass this bill! Gender identity and LGBTQ individuals need the same protections as other discriminated against groups and our state is already not protecting them enough! Give them what protection we can!

01-30-2024

Amanda Bishop []

I'm sure what is being proposed has been considered objectively and systematically by Rep. Shipley and the Subcommittee, but I (a curious citizen) am still unclear on a few things:What problem is being solved by making this change?How are civil rights are being added or reinforced? Whats being taken away?Whose lives will be improved/easier and whose lives will be worsened/more difficult?Are the benefits of shifting from the status quo proportionate to the resources being used to even have this conversation, to manage change, and to implement any new processes? What is the opportunity cost?What are the alternative solutions that have been considered, and how was this option determined to be the most viable?What impact will this have on Iowas constant population drain and top ten positioning on every most forgettable state list?How is this not political grandstanding?How is this not just being mean?And finally, what actual problems are being put to the side while you waste everyone's time with this? Looking forward to learning more thanks so much!

01-30-2024

Kenzie Brown []

Being a individual of the LGBTQ+ but also being a black women in america i am TOTALLY tired of the way this state and this country treats individuals. Someone being who they are shouldnt affect anyone or be a discussion for the whole country to debate on. I believe this bill is a loop hole for the government to get out of the Disability Act already in place in federal laws. The world we live in is sick. We as a country need to do better!

01-30-2024

Josephine O'Donnell []

HF 2082 is yet more disgraceful culture war legislation that does absolutely nothing to truly help Iowans but rather provides license for escalating discrimination against those who deserve the same rights as all of us. Shame on you if you move this bill forward!

01-30-2024

Samantha Swacker []

Gender Identity should be protected. Passing this bill would make it so transgender people could be denied jobs, housing and loans. Nobody should be denied basic human rights due to their gender identity.

01-30-2024

Teresa Boxleiter []

Is this really the best use of your time and resources? To further marginalize and punish a group of people who are already deeply punished for just existing? Don't we have anything more important to do? Like feed hungry children or fix our crumbling infrastructure or support our ailing education system? Oh wait, I forgot that you have purposely starved our children, let our infrastructure rot, and destroyed our education system because you are completely selfserving and have no intention of actually benefiting any Iowans other than yourself.

01-30-2024

Alynn Fuller []

Why is this even any of your business? Does it have to offend you so much? You are taking away human rights from HUMANS, not nonhumans. They suffer enough without your cruel treatment and ignorance. Do better.

01-30-2024

Angela Weekley []

I am appalled that we would entertain anything that is so harmful and hurtful in 2024. As a Christian I know that Jesus would love first! This bill does not show love but hate and will do nothing but harm individuals who experience so much turmoil now. How can someone being who they are be considered a disability. I strongly appose this moving forward from the subcommittee.

01-30-2024

Amelia Wietting [Local Resident]

Thank you for taking your time to read my messages, though I know they are going to fall on deaf ears I am putting time in to writing out my experience moving to Iowa and living here these past three years. I am a career employee working in the cybersecurity of our nation and the globe's food supply, and I am also a transgender woman. I am an active volunteer in the greater Des Moines area, even driving out to Marshalltown to ref and judge events for student robotics competitions. I am a career employee of one of the largest employers here, and I work daily as an expert in Cybersecurity to secure the nation and world's food supply. This does not mean I am disabled. This means because I got the help I needed I was able to transition in to my true self. I do NOT have gender dysphoria. I have an endocrine disorder and it has been managed. I now have Gender EuphoriaSadly it seems this time of my life in Iowa is coming to an end as with the discussion and potential passing of this bill, me, my cats, my income and property tax money, my expenditures on local events, businesses (official and personal), public utilities, travel, and other establishments will come to an end. So will all of my volunteering time (over 20 hours some weeks along with my full time job). It will not come to an end for good no, it will come to an end for the students of Iowa and instead be used to build up the students in a state who actually cares about their and my health.Amelia

01-30-2024

Abby Lee Miller []

This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. You are doing a great disservice to Iowans by passing this bill.

01-30-2024

Joe Freund []

ABSOLUTELY OPPOSED!How dare our majority elected leaders even entertain the idea of removing basic legal protections from transgender Iowa citizens, let alone have the gall to then try to label all of these Iowans as disabled and thus in need of protection. However, not all transgender and nonbinary Iowans have a diagnosis of gender dysphoria, therefore under this proposed law they would have no legal protections from discrimination. Stop trying to remove the rights of Iowans. DO NOT ADVANCE THIS BILL.

01-30-2024

James Kinney []

This bill is hateful, discriminatory, and an antiquated step in the wrong direction for equality in Iowa. Transgender individuals face enough barriers and obstacles in our society our legislature should not be focused on targeting this group. It is time for our legislature to focus on the needs of Iowans including hunger, low socioeconomic status, childcare, health care for all. Stop trying to legalize discrimination against marginalized groups and think of ways to help, instead of hurt, your constituents. This extremist stance against the trans community only hurts people. We are all watching and will vote accordingly in a few months. Why move backwards?

01-30-2024

James Erwin []

Every appeal that can be made has been made. You know the science. You know the detrimental effect on our economy. You know that this will kill people.If you continue down this path, as I am certain you will, just know that we will remember, and history will remember, your actions. You will die in the certain knowledge that all your evil will someday be undone, all the applause you expect for this will have stopped echoing, and your only legacy will be the lives you upended and the misery you caused.

01-30-2024

Dennis Harbaugh []

Dear Subcommittee members: First, I want to thank you for your service. Holding elected office is hard work, and often thankless. I know you care about your community and our state. Second, I know both Republicans and Democrats claim to value 'freedom', but I'm having a hard time connecting this value with HF 2082. It seems the opposite of freedom to me. Recent attempts to dismantle LGBTQ+ rights have been based on claims that others were being harmed such as children reading inappropriate books, for example. But HF 2082 makes no such claims. This legislation would not protect anyone, would not right any wrong, and as hard as I try I can find no other reason for this legislation other than to cause harm to a small minority of Iowa residents who are doing nothing more than minding their own business and trying to work and build a life for themselves in our state. There really is no logical conclusion other than this is a meanspirited piece of legislation with no purpose other than to harm certain Iowans.And if passed, harm there will be. You are undoubtedly not ignorant or naive enough to believe that discrimination will not occur if HF 2082 passes.If you are a religious person, or have a shred of human decency, you know in your heart what the moral and right thing to do is when it comes to HF 2082. Vote no.Thanks for your consideration.

01-30-2024

Body Alex []

This legislation represents a giant step backward for our state. Removing civil rights protections for an entire class of people serves no purpose other than to demean and dehumanize those people and punish them simply for existing. Its quite sad that a member of the Iowa legislature would play politics with Iowans fundamental civil rights, which is exactly what this bill would do. Whose rights will you take away next?

01-30-2024

Virgil lockard []

As a trans person this will cause so much harm. For one it will make to people can deny trans people a house or apartment to rent. Iowa already has way too many homeless people. I feel like attacking people who just want to be themselves which tons of people have wanted for years is just idiotic and against what not just iowa but the US was created for. Allowing this to be passed will just laugh in the face of the 360,222 union deaths that was taken to free the us.

01-30-2024

Emily W []

This bill removes all civil protections from trans people in Iowa, which is pure discrimination. It's anticonstitutional. It is inhumane. Someone's gender expression does not hinder another person in any way, yet this bill will limit, stigmatize, and harm all trans people. It is not in alignment with any religious tradition nor in any of the U.S.'s founding principles. Stripping trans people of civil protections will only create chaos and tear families apart.

01-30-2024

Monica Cunningham []

The point for Civil Rights is about equal opportunity and protection for ALL. Ones gender identity should never impact their protection because transgender people are people too. America being a free country is a laugh at this point and its laughable how were going back in time instead of moving forward. Does freedom only ring discrimination toward identity and misogyny because thats not freedom.

01-30-2024

Juley Murphy-Tiernan []

I have a few questions and would appreciate answers. WHY? How is this even an issue in this state? What purpose does this possibly serve other than to discriminate and further personal agendas. Please dont forget that you are representing all Iowans not just those who are constantly finding ways to promote discourse and hate. Weve truly had enough.

01-30-2024

Carol Garver Smalley []

I grew up with a family member who faced discrimination for who they were. They suffered greatly. The inclusion of protections for LGBTQ and transgender Iowans are lifesaving and necessary. Leave the Iowa Civil Rights Act alone! We cannot condone discrimination in any form. We are all Gods children and all Iowans deserve equal protection under the law.

01-30-2024

emma denney []

I urge a strong NO PASS vote on this bill, and am horrified that this is even being considered. This legislation is vile, cruel, and untenable, and its clear from the hundreds of comments here that Iowans will not be silent when their state tries to backslide into tyranny, bigotry, and fear. As a trans Iowan this bill targets me and my community, laying the groundwork for overt housing, employment, educational, and legal discrimination, instead of the covert bigotry we already face. Anecdotally I dont know any trans people who have never lost a job or been denied an apartment because they are trans. The law already fails to protect the rights we do have, and that this body is looking to strip away even those protections makes me sick.Jeff Shipley, the bills author, has claimed that including trans people under the states definition of disabled is a reasonable cover for this issue, going so far as to cite case law from Virginia around the issue. Nothing can be further from the truth. This framework could establish a system where any institution could make us prove we are trans before accommodating us, even if those accommodations are basic dignity (being called by your own name or pronoun). Giving the state say over what it considers proof in this case creates yet another avenue for discrimination. This ultimately feels like part of the concerted effort across the country to remove informed consent care for trans people and push us back decades into difficult, expensive, and hostile care. This doesnt even include the profound struggles disabled Iowans face gaining recognition, medical support, and accommodation in this state under the existing law.The Iowa City Human Rights Commission found THIS MONTH that UIPD violated the civil rights and freedoms of trans protestors, and this legislature takes up the cause of marginalizing, endangering, and erasing us even further. This body has already brought a deep shame on our state by entertaining this bill at all, and Iowans will not stand for it.

01-30-2024

Ann Beuligmann []

Please do not support this bill. How backwards this state has gone since I moved here 15 years ago. How in this day/age can rights be more restricted than they were previously? We are supposed to move forward, not backwards.

01-30-2024

Doug Kollasch [Iowa City Human Rights Commission]

The purpose of government in a free democracy is to grant and protect the rights and freedoms of its citizens. This bill does the exact opposite of that. Taking away the fundamental right to be treated equally under the law is not only despicable and cruel, but also antithetical to the very principles upon which our nation was founded. Our government is purported to be of the people, by the people, and for the people that means ALL people.

01-30-2024

Diane Schupbach []

I strongly oppose this bill. HF 2082 is absolutely unacceptable. It perpetrates a grievous hurt against the LGBTQ+ community, and contributes to the brain drain from Iowa. It is an economically shortsighted and cruel bill, and in my opinion, it violates of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, since it restricts the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness (not to mention safety) of a segment of Iowas population. ALL Iowans deserve basic civil rights. If "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" is Iowa's motto and "Iowa, Freedom to Flourish" is Iowas current tourism slogan, this bill flies in the face of both statements. I urge you to do better, and to vote "no" on HF 2082.

01-30-2024

May Christensen []

Cruel, unjust, and any man of conscience any kind of true conscience must stand against it. You do not have to enjoy or understand transgender people to understand that they deserve and require equal rights in any civil society.

01-30-2024

Julia Crowley []

I am writing to express my deep concerns about HF2082, a bill scheduled for a hearing that could strip away critical civil rights protections for transgender Iowans. This proposal seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, jeopardizing the LGBTQ community's rights in employment, credit practices, public accommodations, education, and housing.This legislative move not only threatens the wellbeing of the LGBTQ community but also catches the attention of LGBTQ business owners, contributing significantly to our state's GDP. Iowa risks being perceived as unwelcoming and unsafe for this community and their allies, impacting the state's reputation and economic vitality.It feels as if we've stepped back in time with this legislation. It's legally creating discrimination. Iowa republicans say they support small business, but only if it's the "right" small business. I urge you to reconsider the implications of HF2082, especially as it will compromise Iowa's legacy of being inclusive and welcoming. The LGBTQ community has chosen Iowa as a place to work, live, and thrive, making significant contributions to the state's success.If you vote yes for this, you're on the wrong side of history with this legislation.

01-30-2024

Mark Lemke []

I strongly oppose this bill. Civil rights protection should be for all Americans and Iowans not just for the ones the legislature deems fit. It is amazing that our government only works on bills that harm minorities and underprivileged people. It would seem that their valuable time could be spent on more pressing issues rather than their cruelty agenda!!

01-30-2024

Lonica Kufner []

I OPPOSE this bill. It is unconstitutional and limits the ability of a transgender person to have basic life necessities. As a family member of someone who would be directly affected by this, I urge the committee to stop this horrible bill.

01-30-2024

Thomas O'Donnell []

House File 2082 is perhaps the worst of the measures Iowa has considered and adopted regarding Transgender rights. It serves a dual, nefarious purpose: allowing discrimination against Trans people, essentially saying they dont exist as a class, and codifying the idea that Transgenderism is a disease and Trans people are sick. (The bill's lone sponsor, Jeff Shipley, has previously compared Transgenderism to cancer.) This distinction will open the door to other restrictions and attacks on Trans people. The gender dysphoria disability provision is a sham, Trans people and experts say. Only a few Trans people ever receive such a diagnosis because they dont feel the need for it or cant access the proper medical experts. Gender dysphoria also is a moving target: a Trans person may have dysphoria at one point, but not another yet, theyre still Trans and subject to discrimination. Finally, federal law like the Americans with Disabilities Act says disabled people MAY request and receive reasonable accommodations, not that they WILL receive them. As Iowa Rep. Ross Wilburn said on Iowa Public Radio, the current Iowa civil rights law protects all gender identities outright its not something they must earn with a disability. Rep. Shipley claims this bill would provide more protections for Transgender people, but he is no friend to the Trans community. Rather, he is cynically exploiting an issue he believes will attract votes from his base, telling a reporter in 2022 that he landed on this issue not out of any real conviction but because it "moves the needle" among voters. He deserves our rebuke.

01-30-2024

Greg Hauenstein []

This bill proves the need for gender identity to remain a part of the Iowa Civil Rights code. Legislators and other elected officials in this state are acting no better than high school bullies and should be ashamed of themselves. I strongly oppose this bill.

01-30-2024

Terrie Hoefer []

I am HORRIFIED that Iowa Legislators would even give a thought to denying civil rights to ANY person. ANY PERSON. How can you do this?? The people who wrote this bill consider themselves to be prolife. They consider themselves to be Christian. Are you? Do you really think Jesus would be proud of you? Do you think Jesus would approve? Can you look at yourself in the mirror? Can you face your family members? Your friends? Believe me, there are LGBTQ individuals in all of those groups. They are members of your family. They are among your friends. You would deny them a job because of who they are? You would deny them the right to rent or purchase housing? You wouldn't let them buy a car? Get a loan? Seriously? Being trans is NOT a disability! I can't believe this is even being introduced much less even being a thought that someone imagined was a good idea. Taking away someone's civil rights. Wow. Way to go.What will you strike next? Sexual Orientation? Race? What Iowa code will you next comb through looking for terms you do not like? I have lived in Iowa my entire life and I have never been so disgusted, horrified, and embarrassed. The economic damage you will do to this state with this degradation of human rights will be stunning. This is fascist! You will not make trans people disappear. They have always existed and they always will exist. They do no harm to you. You should be ashamed. I oppose this bill with every ounce of my being. This is a complete waste of your time. There are so many other issues that need real attention. Not imaginary issues that get you noticed by hate groups. Good luck defending this unconstitutional bill in court...

01-30-2024

Shawn Blaesing []

This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. My sister is an intelligent, strong transgender woman and she deserves the same protections she already under in the state and federal laws.Most transgender people including my sister, will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, living true to themselves These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. It's absolutely unconstitutional to strip civil rights away from Iowans due to gender identity. It's despicable that this hateful rhetoric continues to attempt to bring bills like HF 2082 into law.Do the right thing and treat all Iowans with the respect and rights they deserve.

01-30-2024

Mary Jo Hempe []

I strongly oppose this bill. Not only will it negatively affect my Iowa family and friends, (the proposition has already caused so much anxiety) but it truly will affect ALL Iowans and ultimately, humanity. Do not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Jenny Britton []

Please do not pass this bill. Iowa is developing a national reputation for bigotry and intolerance. This bill wlll hurt individuals, families, businesses and higher education. Families have already left the state seeking more welcoming environments and taking their tax dollars with them. Businesses will have a harder time recruiting people to move to Iowa. Young adults, of all gender identities, will not want to come to college here. Please do not legislate hate.

01-30-2024

Bob Andeweg [City of Urbandale]

I am the Mayor of Urbandale, Iowa, and I am authorized by the City Council to send this message of opposition to HF 2082. Iowa has a rich history of tolerance and respect for all of its citizens, and I am proud of that history. It shows that Iowa is a leader in civil rights.In Re the Matter of Ralph, decided July, 1839 by the Iowa Supreme Court, is an early example of Iowa's leadership in civil rights. In 1834, a Missouri resident entered into a written agreement with his slave Ralph. The agreement allowed Ralph to reside in the Iowa territory to earn money to purchase his freedom. Ralph failed to pay the amount to purchase his freedom, and the slave owner sent bounty hunters to abduct Ralph and return him to Missouri. The Iowa Supreme Court found that Ralph should pay his debt, but held that "no man in this territory can be reduced to slavery." The U.S. Supreme Court faced a similar question eighteen years later when it decided the infamous Dred Scott (1857) case. However, unlike the Iowa Supreme Court's ruling in Ralph, the U.S. Supreme Court decision maintained the rights of the slave holder and ordered the slave returned. Iowa led the nation in the issue of abolishing slavery.In 1868, the Iowa Supreme Court decided Clark v. The Board of Directors. The case involved a 12yearold girl who had been denied admission to her neighborhood school because of her race. The court held that segregated schools were inherently unequal when it stated that "the law makes no distinction as to the right of children to attend the common schools." To do otherwise, the court stated, would violate the spirit of the law and perpetuate racial strife. It took 85 years for the U.S. Supreme Court to rule against segregated schools, which it did in Brown v. Board of Education (1954). Iowa led the nation in abolishing segregated schools.In 1873, the Iowa Supreme Court heard Coger v. The North Western Union Packet Co. This case centered on a woman who, because of her African descent, was forcibly removed from the dining car of the steamboat on which she was traveling. The woman had an unrestricted meal ticket. The Iowa Supreme Court held that the woman was entitled to the same rights and privileges as white passengers. The same conclusion was not reached by the U.S. Supreme Court until Heart of Atlanta Motel, Inc. v. United States (1964), a case that upheld the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Iowa led in abolishing discrimination based on race.In 2009, the Iowa Supreme Court in the Varnum decision found unconstitutional a state law limiting marriage to a man and a woman. The U.S. Supreme Court did not make a similar ruling until 2015. Iowa led in recognizing samesex marriage.Gender identity has been in the Iowa Civil Rights Act since 2007. Iowa led the nation in gender identity protection.In 2024, why is the Iowa Legislature retracting Iowa's proud heritage of tolerance and respect by eliminating gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act? Many Iowans, and many of my constituents in Urbandale, rely on the gender identity protections contained in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. To repeal this provision is sending a clear message that it's okay to discriminate based on gender identity, and that all Iowans are not welcome here. That is NOT the Iowa I'm proud of.The City of Urbandale operates on the six pillars of characterTrustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. Eliminating gender identity protection violates the core principles of Character Counts. The City of Urbandale strongly opposes HF 2082.Bob Andeweg, Mayor of Urbandale, Iowa

01-30-2024

Tony Allou []

I could not oppose this bill more strongly. The complete lack of empathy and compassion for a group of people undergoing extreme levels of discrimination across our society is frightening. This is legislation that achieves nothing but more pain and suffering for a group that even in the best of circumstances has many obstacles to endure.

01-30-2024

Kristi Keast []

This bill is not a need in Iowa. We are facing public service challenges for funds from other bills already introduced. Our population is diverse, and vibrant. No LGBTQ person has cost anyone anything by being who they are. This bill eliminates an equitable standing. Quality of a person is not tied to their identification. The LGBTQ protection needs to stay in place for all the reasons that are good for Iowa, despite the present statehouse muscle.In my day we would call this bullying, this bill. If the GOP values marketplace selection, leave the law as is. If it passes, there will be homelessness increase, even some food banks would refuse service. The national GOP loss of compass would allow this cruel behavior because they have lost their way. This is not the Iowa I grew up in and raised my family. This is not the Iowa Robert Ray presided over.Do not support HF 2082Kristi Keast, proud LGBTQ grandma, educator, and Christian

01-30-2024

Mike Wahlin []

As a proud parent of a transgender woman and in consideration of the rest of the transgender community, let me be very clear I strongly, strongly oppose this bill not merely the passage of such a bill but the fact that this is even generating a conversation. In a world where we should be moving forward to accept others, where we should be protecting the civil rights of all peoples, where we should be allowing all to reach for the American dream of life. liberty and the pursuit of happiness we seem to be moving in the opposite direction, and this bill only takes us farther down that dark and dangerous road. Again, I reiterate how strongly I oppose this bill please vote no.

01-30-2024

Victoria Jansma []

I strongly oppose HF2082. The Iowa legislation needs to spend its time legislating policies that are helpful and fair to the citizens of Iowa not discriminating against basic human rights. As a person of color I experienced discrimination and find this policy hateful and nonproductive. Members of the legislature who feel the need to push this policy thru need to think how ungodly this policy would be ; not to mention un Christian. We need to unite and help each other not find ways to destroy each other. Vickie Jansma Ashton, Iowa

01-30-2024

Mike Jones [City of Windsor Heights]

My name is Mike Jones and I am writing you in my individual capacity as the Mayor of Windsor Heights. I write you in opposition of House File 2082, An Act relating to gender identity and disability under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. The State of Iowa has a long and storied history of standing up for the underprivileged and underserved in our communities. To pass this Act would break with our States proud tradition of respecting the rights of individuals. In 1839, the Iowa Territorial Court allowed a slave named Ralph to retain his freedom. No man in this territory can be reduced to slavery the Court wrote. In 1851, the Iowa territorial law banning interracial marriage was eliminated, over 100 years before the United States Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia. When Iowas first public university opened, the University of Iowa, it admitted men and women on an equal basis. In Clark v. Board of School Directors, the Iowa Supreme Court held that separate was not equal in the realm of public schooling, resulting in integration 96 years before Brown v. Board of Education. A year later, in 1896, the same Iowa Supreme Court admitted Arabella A. Mansfield to the bar, making her the first female lawyer in the United States.These monumental decisions all took place well over a century ago, a testament to our prescience as fair and just citizens. The movement did not stop there, of course, as Civil Rights continued to evolve over the course of the 20th Century and in Iowa, we passed our own Civil Rights Act in 1965.This unfortunate legislation aims to reverse course not only on Iowas history of tolerance but will also all but repeal bipartisan legislation that was passed in 2007. Both Republicans and Democrats voted in support of adding gender identity to the Civil Rights Act. Recognizing that the political winds have shifted, there is something to be said for recognizing the efforts of your predecessors that worked together, despite their political differences, for the betterment of our State.We were elected to represent the interests of everyone in our communities. That includes transgender individuals or persons who do not fit into traditional gender roles. I speak for them because they are a marginalized group and as Iowans, we have a duty to speak against injustice. I strongly oppose this bill and ask that you vote against it.

01-30-2024

Holly Thayer []

I strongly urge all members of this subcommittee to oppose HF2082. If this bill moves forward, it will signal that Iowa legislators seek to take away Iowans rights, to attack freedom, and to put Iowans safety in jeopardy. This bill would cause significant harm, and no one would benefit. There is no rational or defensible reason to target an entire population and strip away their basic rights that promise an opportunity to seek employment, education, and housing on a safe and level playing field (although this promise, even with protections in place, is often not fulfilled). If this bill moves forward, those legislators who vote in favor will be sending a violent, dystopian message. One that blatantly says they want impacted Iowans to be defenseless when they face discrimination. That blatantly says they dont care whether all Iowans have equal access to basic necessities like shelter and a paycheck. These legislators might earn favor with a minority who hold extreme and discriminatory views, but they will anger many others across the political spectrum, including Iowans who voted for them. Please act in the best interest of all Iowans by decisively opposing this bill.

01-30-2024

Xandra Escalada []

In 2020, the US Supreme Court ruled in Bostock vs Clayton County that employment discrimination on the basis of ones sexual orientation or gender identity is unconstitutional, per Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. As such, HF 2082 is an unconstitutional attack on trans, nonbinary, and genderqueer Iowans, among many others, and will only serve to encourage and facilitate intimidation, exclusion, and hateful acts against these already extremely vulnerable groupsBlack and brown trans individuals, especially. I strongly urge the members of the Judiciary subcommittee to not recommend this bill for passage.

01-30-2024

Nicole Taylor []

Please do not pass this bill out of your committee. Please vote NO.First, we cannot allow Iowa to be the first state in the country to take away civil rights protections from a protected class. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain... does that not apply here? How did we go from the third state in the nation to legalize same sex marriage to the first state trying to strip civil rights protections.Secondly, this bill is about "gender identity" and that certainly applies to transgender Iowans BUT it also applies to everyone. We all have a gender identity! For example, this could force women to wear dresses in the workplace or men to only dress in certain kinds of acceptable clothing. This bill could legislate hate in far broader implications than many are currently seeing!Finally, being transgender is not a disability and lawmakers should not be snowed into thinking this bill will still protect Iowans. This is a huge step backwards and a disgrace on our state.

01-30-2024

Alejandro Piedras []

This attempt to eliminate gender identity as a protected class in the Iowa Civil rights Act is disgraceful. Please use your limited time in session to create meaningful legislation versus pandering to national politics and discrimination. Most voters are smart and we know what you are doing.

01-30-2024

Brooke Sutphin []

I strongly oppose HF2082. Iowa should be protecting the rights of all Iowans, not taking them away. This legislation is completely unnecessary and needless, and targeting groups such as this is an example of dangerous extremism. Using transgender people as political pawns is not what the State of Iowa should stand for. All citizens should be able to flourish in whatever manner they deem is healthy for them, not dictated by the State.

01-30-2024

Honey Grodt []

Allowing this bill to pass guarantees many Iowans will have their civil rights violated. This is a dangerous precedent. All Iowans deserve to be treated with dignity and to have their civil rights upheld.

01-30-2024

Barbara Hays []

This bill violates Iowa's constitutional rights to ALL. ALL humans have human rights. Declaring transgender as a mental illness uses the same playbook that was used to strip homosexuals of their human rights over 50 years ago. Is Iowa really the state that wants to be infamous for going backwards in the evolution of human rights? Stop this outrageous, retrogressive legislation.

01-30-2024

Juanita Williams []

This is a cruel proposed bill! This is a direct attack on people just trying to peacefully live their fullest, authentic lives. Iowa is better than this and I am beyond disappointed in my State for this latest attack on it's citizens.I have many dear friends, family members and countless people in my life who make my church, workplace, community and State a better place because of their bravery, hard work and generosity of spirit. It breaks my heart to think of how even the PROPOSAL of this potential hateful legislation makes them feel. It is actually quite illogical to make policy that drives more hardworking, contributing citizens away from Iowa and deters many others from wanting to visit or relocate here. What are you thinking?!Please do not let this terrible proposal see the light of day!

01-30-2024

Adriana Schnoebelen []

I strongly oppose this hate full bill. Using legislation to remove civil liberties from transgender people is shockingly wrong in so many ways. Nobody needs to conform to your narrow views. Leave people alone to live their lives for cryin out loud!

01-30-2024

Jude Cigrand []

Do I understand this correctly? I am encouraged to retire with disability? I am a transgender man, work for local government. I take heart reading the other comments, this bill makes no sense, I strongly oppose.

01-30-2024

Elisabeth Lewin []

I encourage you to cast a "NO" vote on HF2082. This bill poses a serious threat to the civil rights of transgender Iowans. If this becomes law, gender identity will be gone as a protected class in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, eliminating crucial protections in employment, credit practices, public accommodations, education, and housing. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. If passed, it would make Iowa the first state to remove transgender people from their civil rights code. That is a shameful "first in the nation" status that I do not want our state to achieve. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.

01-30-2024

Sheryl Payton []

This bill is in direct violation of Iowa's constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes transgender Iowans.The continued attacks on LGBTQ+ Iowans must stop now. I am so ashamed of the direction my state is taking. Hate has no place here.

01-30-2024

Dawn Snyder []

I am contacting you today to urge a "no" vote on HF2082. I strongly oppose this bill. This bill will remove civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and classify being transgender as a disability. Most transgender people will not be protected if this bill passes. That means they will be at risk of being denied an apartment, a credit card, a car loan, and more simply because of their appearance. These are basic necessities that everyone needs to access regardless of who they are. Please keep these fundamental protections in place and vote "no" on HF2082.This bill is an unnecessary and paranoid response and a direct violation of human rights and I urge you to vote no.

01-30-2024

Chris Goodman []

I am opposed to the removal of protection for our Transgender Iowans. I am a straight, white female. I have no agenda here except to speak up for those who could suffer from discrimination. We are free to practice our CHOICE of religion. But Transgender is NOT a choice, but a biological development of a fetus where the physical doesn't match up with the neurological. We can choose to be kind & accepting, even if we don't understand it agree. Isn't that what the Bible teaches? People CHOOSE their religion and people can choose hate. I CHOOSE to accept a person for who they are because they cannot choose how they are born. DO BETTER!

01-30-2024

April Young []

There is so much to love about living in Iowa. A bill such as HF2082 is definitely not one of them. Please put the interests of the majority of your constituency first. Do you really think that the Creator of the Cosmos cares one whit about the gender identity of people on one tiny planet? You've lost your focus, if you believe so. Love is not judgment. People do not have to be like you to be accepted. Back up a little, take a larger view: this life is supposed to be about connection and understanding. If you cannot find yourself understanding ... try harder. As leaders, that is what you're supposed to be doing, for all Iowans.

01-30-2024

Kathleen Winter [- Select -]

This bill is just another attempt to solve a problem that doesn't exist, but it will in fact cause irreparable harm to the transgender community just to fuel a political fervor. Why do you endlessly target this already marginalized community? Everyone should have their civil rights protected and no one single group of people can or should be labeled as disabled. Try working on the fact that Iowa's cancer rates are skyrocketing and our nursing homes are ranked 49th in the nation. Just stop the discriminatory tactics.

01-30-2024

Barbara and Jim Dale []

We emphasize our support for the AEAs of Iowa, their mission and their success in fulfilling it. We do not want their work diminished or changed. As the saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

01-30-2024

Jennifer Santiago []

I strongly oppose this bill and request that it not be sent forward. Transgender people exist and contribute to society, even in Iowa. Please pay attention to the vast majority of medical professionals who understand being transgender is not a disability.

01-30-2024

Bonni Wilbourne []

Targeting the civil rights of citizens tied directly to gender is categorically wrong. This will harm Iowans. This will harm friends, neighbors, coworkers, families. Persecution of select groups of Iowans is nothing short of hiw Nazis persecuted citizens during WW2. This select Persecution LMK Ed to the deaths of thousands of people. Fear mongering in Iowa must end.

01-30-2024

Denise OBrien [none - individual]

Lawmakers should be about granting civil rights, not taking them away. To relegate transgender to the category of disability is shameful and un American. This is utterly embarrassing to our state and to our country.

01-30-2024

Isabelle Rohlfing []

I strongly urge you to vote NO on this bill. I work in the mental health field with many children who identify as transgender or gender nonconforming. Openly allowing and endorsing discrimination and stigmatization will harm their mental health further. If this bill passes it is taking away basic human rights and dignity from people. This bill is entirely dehumanizing and extremely concerning. People identifying as transgender are already at a heightened risk of mental health problems and suicide. I see more mental health concerns and suicide rates of transgender people increasing with the passing of this bill. The bill is essentially telling transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming people that they do not matter because they are different. If this bill is passed, it is a slippery slope to taking rights away from other minority populations. I am incredibly fearful of what the future will hold if this bill passes.

01-30-2024

Arya Kerman []

Hello, I am a current resident of neighboring Minnesota where we recently became a trans sanctuary state which is really cute because I am trans. I am also a disgusted and furious trans person, because that the state where I spent the first 18 years of my life is trying to strip away the rights of my trans family in Iowa. You all should truly be ashamed of yourselves. Trans people, like you all, are human, and deserving of equal rights at a minimum and straight up worship, in truth. I hope you get blessed with being in the presence of trans person soon because its clear that you are depraved and deprived to write this bill.

01-30-2024

Ysandril Morrigan []

This bill and those that target marginalized communities must be vehemently opposed. The obsession with the Iowa Republican fascist leaders sending us to 1952 and before is so vile and offensive. History will remember when leaders chose to put their personal wealth and blind zeal (those owned and controlled by the family leader and lobbyists like them) ahead of humanity. The fiction painted by these fascists defines a world where people who simply wish to exist among you are more harmful so they can use that as a platform for their political posturing. It is time to end this madness and to make rational decisions, not ones based in fear, hatred and bigotry.

01-30-2024

Linda Gregory []

I am the mother of a transgender daughter. I can personally attest that her being transgender is not a disability. Shes incredibly gifted and bright. I am incredibly dismayed that the state of Iowa is considering taking away her basic civil rights.The state of Iowas new slogan is, Freedom to Flourish. Lets ensure that remains true for ALL Iowans.

01-30-2024

Gwen Hope []

I intensely and vehemently oppose any attempt by the neofascist legislature in removing protections that benefit all people, but especially protect transgender, nonbinary, and gendernonconforming people. As a trans woman, I personally abhor the attempt to reclassify being trans as a disabling condition. The ability of all people to live freely unhindered by the State in terms of their personal gender identity and expression is the very essence of ability and literal expression of freedom and liberty. Those who wish to continue their antiLGBTQ crusade to ingratiate themselves among the neofascist rightwing and hateful religious groups should do so knowing fullwell that they are proudly antifreedom, antiliberty, and profoundly antiAmerican.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Gilmore []

STOP HF 2082STOP hurting my family. STOP hurting my son. This bill is dangerous and it is bad for ALL Iowans. I have lived here all my life. I am a multigenerational Iowa citizen. I dont recognize us anymore.

01-30-2024

Tristan Schmidt []

Vote no on this bill, particularly for two reasons. The first reason being: it is against our values as Iowans to allow discrimination, and potential harm on our family, friends and neighbors in the state. We also want to make Iowa a welcoming home so that it doesnt continue to lose youth to surrounding states that have historically protected some populations better. There are also so many children out there who are slowly growing into themselves and want to be able to do that safely and without fear of rejection, discrimination, shame, or guilt. What right does a group of legislative officials of which no one has openly identified as trans or nonbinary get dictate how LGBTQ+ live their lives?The second reason: gender identity is language similar to a bill that that the legislature voted and passed, which was then subsequently blocked. Why? The ambiguity of the wording used in the bill/legislation. By saying gender identity it is making it OK to discriminate on the basis of any gender identity someone could go into a store and say I wont sell you, because you are a man or I wont make the order for you because youre a woman. Those sound just ridiculous to say it aloud and we want to allow that to happen to trans individuals? The legislation is illmannered, illdefined, and born out of boredom and arrogant malice. The right to existence is not defined by a binary, and neither is the right to having a successful and happy life on your own terms.

01-30-2024

Katherine Young [Citizen]

NO. Why are you wasting time and resources discussing removing civil rights from your fellow Iowans? This makes me ashamed to be an Iowan. We are very quickly going from a state known for being First in the nation for education to First in the nation in DISCRIMINATION. If you cant find it in your hearts to stop this, then find it in your wallets and know that this WILL have a negative effect on Iowas economy. How can businesses attract people to our state when such unwelcoming legislation is accepted?

01-30-2024

Roger Saxton []

Dear Subcommittee members. Please put this piece of legislation where it belongs, in the trash! The author is apparently using his own agenda to discriminate against the transgendered population of Iowa, under the ruse that it will be better for them! A public servant is supposed to lift up all classes of Iowans to make their life better, not try to minimize them. Having been a public servant in Iowa for 22 years, I was taught to treat everyone with the same respect that I would want. I would ask you to do the same.

01-30-2024

Kay Kopatich []

Please STOP promoting hate of transgender people. You have passed appalling laws that harm trans Iowans and leave them vulnerable to danger. Once again you attack their very rights as citizens. STOP this Iowans do not want your terrible assaults against our beloved family members, friends and neighbor.

01-30-2024

Michelle Hicks []

What in holy hell is going on in Iowa?! Why even bother with a Civil Rights Act?! As clearly a whole class of IOWANS can be removed by a stroke of a pen! Who is next?!?! Sounds a lot like Hitler and the Jews!! Come on subcommittee members! These are YOUR constituents! Quit spending wasted time targeting classes of people who will be forced to move out of state if this bill is passed and try to pass legislation that actually benefits Iowans!! Now there is a novel concept!!

01-30-2024

Elliott Young []

As a 14 year old Transgender and Pansexual man. This bill, if passed will infringe upon my rights as a young American. I am scared every day of having to grow up in a world full of hate towards LGBTQ people. If this bill passes I will not be able to grow up without the risk of being denied the access of basic rights to housing, credit cards, etc. Even as a middle schooler I have already experienced so much hate for something that is out of my control. Never should any group of people be treated this way. Lawmakers are actively reversing the progress my community has made over years of fighting. This bill must not be passed. I am extremely disappointed in the lack of support in my state from people who are supposed to protect us. Hate has zero place here. I repeat, this bill must not be passed.

01-30-2024

Melissa McAllister []

I strongly oppose this bill and urge a NO vote from the subcommittee. Iowa should be first in the nation for protecting the civil rights of Iowans, not for stripping them away. Iowa should strive to maintain civil rights. Discrimination is not a suitable policy choice. Gender diverse people live and work in Iowa; they are getting their education in Iowa; they are raising their families in Iowa. This bill is harmful to Iowans. Equal protection under the law is essential to ALL Iowans. Our state should not legislate discrimination. Vote NO on HF 2082.

01-30-2024

Melissa & Rob McAllister [Dungeon's Gate]

We own and operate a small business in Iowa and we strongly oppose this bill. Gender diverse people live and work in Iowa. Gender diverse people seek their educations in Iowa. Gender diverse people raise their families in Iowa. This bill is harmful to gender diverse Iowans. This bill is harmful to small businesses. This bill does not reflect a state that people will want to live and work in. How do Iowa businesses recruit and maintain employees in the face of such discrimination? Iowa should not strip away protected classes. Equal protection under the law is essential to ALL Iowans. Vote NO on HF 2082.

01-30-2024

Kristen Daily []

I strongly oppose this bill. It is a blatant attack on transgender Iowans. These continued attacks on the LGBTQ+ community are unconscionable and you must stop. Everyone deserves equal protection under the law, and discrimination based on gender identity is hateful. Each and everyone in our state deserves a safe place to live and to work. Do not choose hate.

01-30-2024

David Epperson []

HF 2082 is an embarrassment to this state. Removing gender identity from the civil rights act will only serve to endanger Iowans, and make them feel less welcome in this state than the ridiculous proceedings of this legislature already telegraphs to them.I oppose this bill, and hope this subcommittee will instead take up issues more relevant to Iowans than haphazardly amending the legal protections of their constituents.

01-30-2024

Solveig Orngard []

This proposed bill is appalling and I oppose it vehemently. Gender identity is something that everyone has in some way or another, whether cisgender, transgender or anything else. Allowing discrimination based on gender identity means that any person could be permissibly discriminated against simply by being who they are. That would be beneficial to no one.And I simply do not understand how or why every transgender person could be lumped into the category of "disabled". The concept is infuriating.

01-30-2024

Ray Vanek []

The purpose of the Iowa Civil Rights Act is to preserve and protect the rights of all Iowans. Removing the protections of any group of people is antithetical to the Civil Rights Act, and in fact should be illegal under the Act itself. Please vote against stripping away the rights of Iowans no matter what their gender identity, because a law like this will allow for policing of everyone's gender presentation, and along with trans Iowans, many more people will be hurt by it as well.

01-30-2024

Mitchell Callahan [Friends of Valley Junction]

We do not need this law in Iowa. Our population is diverse, and vibrant and a trans person has never cost anybody anything by being themselves. This bill eliminates an equitable standing and makes them out to all be disabled and mentally ill which is blatantly misguided and reprehensible. Quality of a person is not tied to their identification. The trans protection needs to stay in place for all the reasons that are good for Iowa, despite the present statehouse muscle. If it passes, there will be an increase in homelessness and substance abuse amongst this very small and very vulnerable population. This is not the Iowa Robert Ray presided over. Please so not support HF 2082.

01-30-2024

Jacob Lemons []

This bill does nothing but hurt Iowans. LGBTQ+ individuals REFUSE to become second class citizens because lawmakers are scared of them. Spend less time clutching your pearls and coming after the rights of people who simply want to exist and more time helping Iowans with real problems, not ones fabricated by the farright extremists that are running our state government.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Simatovich []

I strongly oppose this bill. Everyone has a gender identity. While removing gender identity from the civil rights act would disproportionately affect transgender people, it could potentially harm any Iowan. This bill is an attack on transgender Iowans and will further stigmatize them. It should NOT be passed. Iowa has had a long history of being progressive in civil rights. Do we really want to sully that record now?

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Carlson []

I ask you to oppose HF 2082 and also to please do anything of material value for the people of Iowa. It is disgusting that the people who are supposed to be managing the wellbeing of Iowans are even bringing this up as a question. While the states environment, infrastructure, and services rapidly deteriorate in front of our eyes, your time is spent debating whether to remove human rights protections??? Human rights of course must always be protected in all contexts for all identities. This posited removal of protection on the basis of gender identity is a clear message that those bringing it forward dont believe in the state having an obligation to protect any human rights for anyone. What are you all even here for?

01-31-2024

Tonya Simatovich []

I strongly oppose this bill. I have been in a relationship with my transgender wife for 11 years. Ive witnessed her bravery countless times during her transition. Ive been there for all of those life changing moments when she was acknowledged the woman that she has always been. Now it breaks my heart to see her so scared that her rights may be taken away. Please dont pass this bill. We cant live in a state that treats transgender people like they mean nothing. Im ashamed of the people responsible for these actions.

01-31-2024

Kalen Stefanick []

I STRONGLY oppose HF2082. Not only would it strip the rights of transgender Iowans, but also the rights of women and other gender minorities. Everyone has a gender identity, not just transgender people (although trans people would be disproportionately impacted by this bill). Not to mention, there are absolutely ZERO circumstances under which we should be discussing the removal of basic Civil Rights for a group of people. Absolutely disgusting and appalling that this kind of legislation is being introduced. Literally none of your constituents asked for this garbage. How about trying to make positive change to Iowa, like maybe working on fixing the broken education system or roads and other infrastructure? This bill literally helps no one. As a trans person living in Iowa for college, I am furious that you've decided to waste time and resources on spreading hate. Trans Iowans deserve rights, just like everyone else!

01-31-2024

AJ Mitchell []

Easily, there are more important things for the Iowa legislature to spend time and money on than this. Also, (after years of unsubstantiated attacks on this community) folks newly unprotected by the law will become unemployed. As a result, Iowa legislators can expect increased unemployment numbers and decreased tax revenue. This model of party unification is lazy, inefficient, and unsustainable.

01-31-2024

Jill Bjorklund []

I vehemently oppose HF 2082 which would allow my transgender daughter and many of my loved ones to be discriminated against due to their gender identity. Whatever happened to "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" and "Freedom to flourish"? This government overreach is intended to incrementally strip trans Iowans of their rights. I am mortified that we could become the first state to do this. Vote NO on HF 2082 and leave trans Iowans alone!

01-31-2024

Phoenix Black []

This is beyond disgusting. I oppose every part of this bill. It violates the constitution and is entirely unacceptable. Shame on these politicians for even considering this action. This is sickening.

01-31-2024

Sister Kathleen Grace, OSF []

How can we deny protection from discrimination to persons based on their gender identity. This is a gift given by God, not an identity determined by the state. What does "Welcome to Iowa" really mean?

01-31-2024

Andrew Steiger []

01-31-2024

Jennifer Middleton []

Thank you, thank you for protecting real women and children from this dangerous ideology in the places that we are most vulnerable! We applaud your efforts to bring sanity back to public schools and praise your efforts! We are praying for all who have worked so diligently on this Bill!

01-31-2024

Nichole B []

I strongly support this bill. Every child and every woman have the right to protection. If you allow the insanity to continue then blood will be on your hands from intentional exposure to rapists and pedohiles. Clean up the state. Bring in major mental health services to assist those males who pretend to be female just to look at little girls. Thats their intention. Is that what Iowa represents? Those who oppose this bill claim hate against transgenders but the real hatred is against women and children if this bill doesnt get passed. Women have fought so hard for so long to have rights, do not let them steal more from us. How much are those women being paid who claim opposition to this bill? Whos going to protect us if you dont? PASS THIS BILL!

01-31-2024

Crystal Parsons []

I strongly support this bill. Advocating for the protection of women's rights and children's safety does not conflict with supporting LGBTQ+ rights. A large majority of Iowans voted you all into office to make bold and strong decisions to protect our children. This bill is exactly what we need here in Iowa to protect our daughters, wives, sisters, and mothers. It is evident that those opposed have gone to great lengths to gather comments on this bill, making it appears as though the majority are against it. I assure you that is not true, as you already know if you have spent time talking to your constituents. Please stand up to the bullying and do the right thing. We the people support you.

01-31-2024

Jennifer McCrickerd []

I worry that the rationale used to justify this move would also justify eliminating religion and political orientation as protected classes. It isn't merely that I disagree with this move (though I do) but that the logic being used to justify this move would imply a desire to remove other protected classes if it weren't for the happy fact that the Constitution already protects them. I'd like to believe that our representative don't only protect groups because the Constitution says so but because of the reasoning.It would be a sad day, indeed, to learn that our representatives would eliminate all protections if they could. But, eliminating this protection would imply this.

01-31-2024

Jenny Goodman []

Vote no on HF 2082. And vote no to any proposed legislation that helps zero constituents and deeply harms other constituents. And vote no to any proposed legislation that moves Iowa backwards on basic individual freedoms and rights.

01-31-2024

Annie Brandt []

Moving forward with this is an incredibly slippery slope. This bill is in direct violation of Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. To say this does not include our fellow transgender Iowans is so say a person that identifies as such is not a person. Where will it stop? Why does our government get to determine who is a person and who is not? Please do the right thing for those you represent and stop this from moving forward.

01-31-2024

Lucas Loftin []

I support this bill.Rational and logical divisions between the two natural genders/sexes needs to be clear. Gender identity disorder/gender dysphoria does not require its own protected class. It only seeks to blur and confuse the lines of reality.

01-31-2024

Haleh Everett-Weaver []

I support this bill. It keeps biological males out of women's bathrooms and safe spaces! We are born different and that is ok. We can be kind and compassionate to people who identify as transgender without pandering to them or the pseudoreality they want to impose on the rest of us. This is a medical fad that will fade with time, but not before countless people suffer from pharmacological and medical interventions from greedy corporations wanting to make a perpetual class of people dependent on their services. This bill does not erase transgenders, it just draws a hard line as to what they can and can't do in regards to everyone else in places where women are vulnerable. Being a women is not a skin suit anyone can identify as and wear, we have very real needs and issues that no one outside of those born a women can fully know.

01-31-2024

Richard Salas []

This bill is unacceptable Equal protection under the law is an essential protection that ALL Iowans deserve period! This bill would take away the basic civil and human rights people have.Oppose 100%

01-31-2024

Marcie Atwood []

Please kill HF 2082. It is hateful, discriminatory and has no place in Iowa. To even consider it shows bigotry that doesnt belong in Iowa. Please represent the best in humanity and end this bill today

01-31-2024

Mary Jobst []

Facts:1. Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity are NOT immutable like sex and race.2. SOGI laws are not about protecting the freedom of people to live as LGBT, but instead are being used to coerce everyone else to support, facilitate, and affirm these behaviors in violation the of freedom of religion and speech.3. SOGI laws are being used to violate the privacy and safety of women and girls.4. SOGI laws are being used to violate the conscience rights of doctors and other medical professionals.5. SOGI laws are doing harm to children, according to the American College of Pediatricians, by encouraging experimental social, medical, and surgical transitioning of children experiencing Gender DysphoriaEvery human being has inherent dignity and should be treated with respect, including those who identify as LGBT. However, SOGI laws do not treat everyone with respect. They treat those who believe that marriage is between a man and a woman or that sex is a biological reality as the legal equivalent of racist bigots. Please REPEAL SOGI from the Iowa Civil Rights Code.

01-31-2024

Amanda Gran []

I oppose this bill. We should not take rights from any Iowans, all people deserve equal protection under the law. Why you are wasting time and money trying to create a caste system based on your wrongheaded ideas about gender is baffling. And it likely will open you up to legal challenges since this certainly violates federal protections.

01-31-2024

Mandy Gilbert []

Please support this bill and protect our children and especially daughters! When we moved to this state we immediately found issues with the oversexualization in our schools as early as second grade. Thats when I found out Iowa has this special protection that has allowed the constant discussion around sexuality that is a personal family value and not age appropriate. The reason there is an uptick of organizations using safe spaces and inclusiveness in our schools is to insert the ideology that has been hijacked by the activists. No longer is the conversation around what I do in the bedroom is personal, its all about forcing everyone to explore and affirm sex as early as preschool. Our daughters are not safe in locker rooms and bathrooms. We didnt realize college campuses are not keeping spaces separate for each sex. This is creating dangerous situation and is neither safe or inclusive. Please support this bill as common sense legislation.

01-31-2024

Amy Dea []

I support this bill. I do not believe that the way you chose to have sex should provide you with special rights. I do not believe a man putting on a dress and lipstick should provide him with special rights. Indoctrination into this lifestyle is abuse! Our students are suffering in Iowa and I beg our legislators to remove gender identity from the civil rights code!

01-31-2024

Paula Nelson []

NO! Why is this even being considered? Your job is to protect all people and LGBTQ+ are people. Do the right thing and protect them! Dismiss this bill and do something constructive and intelligent that we can be proud of.

01-31-2024

Sarah Chmelar []

In the crisis of the confusion being told to people that they are able to pick a gender. I think its too important not to move forward with this bill. So as a resident of the state of Iowa, I am sending my support for this bill. Thank you, Sarah

01-31-2024

Oliver Bardwell [Iowans 4 Freedom]

I support HF2082 as it addresses the increasingly complex issue of gender identity in public spaces, particularly regarding the rights and safety of women in Iowa. Womens rights are being violated every day in Iowa in their most private and vulnerable spaces. By reclassifying gender dysphoria within the Iowa Civil Rights Code, this bill seeks a balanced approach that respects the needs of all individuals while prioritizing safety and privacy. There are 28 other states without gender identity having it's own protected class status in their code that still uphold the rights of transgender adults. It's crucial to ensure that our laws evolve with societal changes, ensuring fairness and respect for everyone's rights. This legislation represents a thoughtful and timely step towards addressing these challenges, and I urge our legislators to consider its positive impact on our state.

01-31-2024

Betsy Fickel []

A "DO PASS" on this common sense bill. If a person truly believes they are not of the sex they were born with, then it is a mental issue. How many are just pretending and, especially with youth, will out grow the 'me, too' phase. For adults, it's more likely attention seeking. It's easy to play a game in public, but what about their private life, when not in the public eye?

01-31-2024

Natalie Fixmer-Oraiz []

Shame on this committee for wasting precious time and taxpayer dollars on this cruelty!!! In what universe do we actually REMOVE someones right to equal protection under the law???! This is not the Iowa I know and love. We should be working to invest in housing, health care, and education. SHAME ON YOU.

01-31-2024

V Fixmer-Oraiz []

It is unconscionable and unAmerican to actively discriminate against an entire group of people. Its a slippery slope to start stripping protections for a protected class of people. Who will be next? This hearing is an embarrassment to our state and a waste of tax payer dollars.

01-31-2024

Trisha Ludeman []

This body should focus on making Iowans lives better not stripping rights! This is despicable and cruel! All decent human beings should be opposed to this. Get to work on making Iowa a place people want to live not flee!

01-31-2024

Cara Muta []

I strongly oppose this bill. This bill is hurtful, hateful, and will not benefit anyone. Its time to focus on real problems: bridges, infrastructure, water quality, education, economythis list of what needs fixing and will benefit all Iowans is long! This proposed bill fixes nothing. Please vote NO.

01-31-2024

Nicole VanderLinden []

I imagine it gets easier to continue stripping transgender and nonbinary Iowans of their rights the farther you go. I mean, momentum, right? Last year it was "just" about kids, and this year it's "just" about clarifying the state constitution. But every step you're taking brings you closer to a legacy I doubt you want as Iowans, as Americans, and as human beings. Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Susan Langan []

Please do not take gender identity out of the protected class law for discriminationHF2082. The fact that this is even being brought up as a consideration makes me sick to my stomach. Hasnt there been enough damage done to try to strip the dignity of LGBTQ folks? How much more can you do to strip them of their dignity and self worth? The constitution says liberty and justice for all, not just for who you give your approval. People who have different values WILL discriminate against transgender and other LGBTQ folks if it is not against the law. There are experts in the medical and mental health fields who are telling you this is a terrible thing to do. Yet, it is still being considered. As representatives of Iowa, you are supposed to represent all of your constituents, not just the ones you agree with and have the same views as you. What is BEST for ALL of the people of Iowa?Why are we focusing on issues that are not problems? How about focusing on helping people understand each other and work together. We have wonderful organizations in Iowa, such as Iowa Safe Schools and One Iowa who do trainings to help schools and communities deal with issues regarding gender identity. The problems with mental health are being increased by this bill and SSB 1164 which gives people the right to discriminate because of their religious beliefs. How about lets do more than put the crisis number on student ID badges and do something that will make a bigger difference in helping people with their mental health issues. We need more training, mental health counselors and facilities for students and adults. Lets look at working TOGETHER to make Iowa a better state than one that is NOT accepting or welcoming to all people. I am flabbergasted by people who use their religion as a way to discriminate and exclude people. It is not OK to continue to demonize a group of people who just want to live their lives. Vote NO for HF2082 and SSB1164.

01-31-2024

Robert Nazario []

We ALL who have strong moral convictions and are planted on God's Holy word should be supporting this bill. For generations, we all knew there were only two genders, God made them Male and Female. Then society wanted to shift absolute values and make them fluid. No one can change their sex! A male can not get pregnant. A male can not achieve a monthly menstrual cycle. Folks may not want to admit it, but we are created by the living God and our gender is defined early in the stages of development while in the womb and NO One can change that. To think otherwise, is something beyond rational thinking and deserves the disability portion of this bill. We need a stronger and a more robust mental/emotional healthcare system in IOWA to deal with these mental disorders. Christians will love everyone, but we can not condone this delusional and twisted ideology that is pushed on our kids, classrooms and communities during pride month and throughout the year. from the encyclopedia: sex chromosome, either of a pair of chromosomes that determine whether an individual is male or female. The sex chromosomes of human beings and other mammals are designated by scientists as X and Y. In humans the sex chromosomes consist of one pair of the total of 23 pairs of chromosomes. The other 22 pairs of chromosomes are called autosomes. Individuals having two X chromosomes (XX) are female; individuals having one X chromosome and one Y chromosome (XY) are male. The X chromosome resembles a large autosomal chromosome with a long and a short arm. The Y chromosome has one long arm and a very short second arm. This path to maleness or femaleness originates at the moment of meiosis, when a cell divides to produce gametes, or sex cells having half the normal number of chromosomes. During meiosis the male XY sexchromosome pair separates and passes on an X or a Y to separate gametes; the result is that onehalf of the gametes (sperm) that are formed contains the X chromosome and the other half contains the Y chromosome. The female has two X chromosomes, and all female egg cells normally carry a single X. The eggs fertilized by Xbearing sperm become females (XX), whereas those fertilized by Ybearing sperm become males (XY). Please support this very important BILL!

01-31-2024

Brett Shaw []

We know who this will hurt. Who will it help? Are there actual numbers that support the proposed benefits of this bill? What (beyond partisan games) is the purpose of even entertaining this nonsense? Please end this now!!!

01-31-2024

Patricia OLoughlin []

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding recent discussions around legislation that might compromise the civil rights of transgender individuals in Iowa. I firmly believe that every person deserves equal protection under the law, and the potential removal of safeguards against workplace discrimination based on gender identity is troubling.Allowing companies, including public ones, to fire employees solely because they are transgender sets a dangerous precedent. Not only does it open the door to discrimination, but it also raises the alarming prospect of eroding civil rights for other marginalized groups. We must consider the broader implications of such policies, as they could set the stage for further encroachments on the rights of various communities, including the possibility of discriminating against pregnant women.I urge you to stand firm in your commitment to equality and justice for all constituents. Please consider the potential impact of any legislation on the lives of transgender individuals and work towards maintaining the principles of fairness, inclusion, and protection of civil rights that are fundamental to the values we cherish as a society.Thank you for your attention to this critical matter, and I hope you will support policies that uphold the principles of equality and nondiscrimination.Iowa we know better let's continue to DO better!

01-31-2024

Kevin Pokorny []

I oppose this bill. We do not take away rights of Iowan's already enshrined in our laws. Imagine if your children, grandchildren or nieces or nephews were impacted by this proposed change. Are you willing to live with that? Leave the law as it is.

01-31-2024

Amanda Boody []

People expressing gender any way they want does not infringe on the rights or freedom of others. Seeing or interacting with someone dressing or acting differently than you expect or want is not going to force you to dress or act differently than you want. It isn't your business. Your business is to dress and act the way you think is right and focus your efforts on legislation that benefits everyone. Stop wasting your time on this. If you are uncomfortable seeing or interacting with someone who dresses or presents in a way that your think is tempting yourself or others to do something wrong then gouge your eyes out as the Bible suggests. It is not your job to judge others doing something that does not infringe on the freedom of anyone else. Your discomfort knowing others are presenting in way you don't approve is not an infringement of your freedom. It is a sign you are insecure in your faith and need to focus on the beam in your eye.

01-31-2024

Morgan Hockey []

Trans people have always been here, and we are not going away. Stop wasting taxpayer funds and legislative time on bills that do nothing to improve the material conditions of Iowans to attack your latest scapegoat.

01-31-2024

Erin Jost []

This bill is not only wrong, it's distracting. There are many other issues that need our attention, aside from stripping away rights from deserving citizens. Let's please use our energy and resources on things that will actually affect Iowans.

01-31-2024

Erin Jost []

01-31-2024

Robert Hopp []

I strongly oppose this bill. It's immoral, unconstitutional, indefensible, and a hateful waste of taxpayer resources in support of petty bigotry. Legalizing who it's OK to discriminate against is a slippery slope. Do not continue in this race to the bottom.

01-31-2024

Chan Dolan []

This bill is a direct attack on the rights of trans people in the state of Iowa. Transgender people are people, and Iowan legislators are making it very clear they don't see them this way. As an Iowan who is currently living out of state, it hurts my heart to see the direction my home state is headed in terms of discriminatory legislation. If signed into law, this bill would harm trans people in numerous ways, making rights like healthcare and housing inaccessible. When legislation like this is passed, it sets a precedent for other states and governing bodies to follow policy examples of oppression of vulnerable populations beyond trans people (reproductive healthcare, immigration law, etc). I urge the subcommittee to vote no on this blatantly discriminatory bill.

01-31-2024

Deborah Schliekelman []

Yet another attempt to strip away more of Iowa citizens' rights. I am in strong disagreement with this proposal to remove trans gender rights, as well as many other bills that have been proposed/approved in recent times. Iowa used to be a good place to live with a "live and let live" mentality, but it seems that our current state government is bound and determined to take over every aspect of our personal lives this is truly appalling and needs to stop.

01-31-2024

Terese Grant []

It is important to protect gender identity which has been the case in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. We need to protect transgender individuals in Iowa so they can live their lives in safety and with respect. Please vote No against HF 2082.

01-31-2024

Ellsi Mertens []

I strongly oppose this bill. The only reason a person would remove these protections for trans and nonbinary Iowans is to take actions against them. In combination with other bills going to the floor, such as removing the ban on conversion therapy (SF 2037), this bill is an attempt to take steps towards barring transgender people from public life. This bill WILL kill people if it is allowed to pass, or rather, the bills it sets a precedent for will kill people. For the sake of brevity, conversion therapy is something that our current protections would make it difficult to legalize, but without those protections, would be much easier to reinstate. Conversion therapy is, A: Not effective in what it aims to do and B: Shown to increase suicidal ideation in its patients. We must have recourse to prevent children and adults from being put through this, and without protections under nondiscrimination law, our recourse shrinks. Because the people that want to put us through conversion therapy don't care if we die, so long as we aren't "wrong" in their eyes anymore. Do not pass this bill, do not be complicit in efforts to erase trans and non binary folks from this country for wanting nothing more than to exercise their right to Life, Liberty, and Happiness in safety. Do not go forward with this transparent attempt to strip away our safety.

01-31-2024

Allison Pin []

This bill is absolutely ridiculous. We hear people talk about our rights being "infringed" by the government and this bill is doing just that. Denouncing anyone's existence is wrong and limiting their access to be able to live freely and provide a sustainable life for themselves and their loved ones is wrong. I'm deeply disappointed in this state. I have not lived here for very long and bills like this make me want to move OUT.

01-31-2024

Allison Pin []

01-31-2024

Piper Wood []

I oppose everything about this bill, and it is not representative of Iowa's past, present, and future kindness. This bill will bring direct harm to trans Iowans, and stands in direct opposition to Iowa's values as a place that welcomes all people. This is a violent, twisted attempt to erase LGBTQ+ Iowans from history and strip them of their rights, and I urge you to join me in opposing this legislation.

01-31-2024

Olivia Hockey []

This is one of the worst bills I have ever seen. Believing some people are undeserving of basic human rights is bad enough but actively trying to take them away is disgusting. Nobody should have their civil rights taken away! I am ashamed of our state and the monsters who run it.

01-31-2024

Brooke Sutphin []

This is strikingly like the history of Nazi Germany....the desire to eliminate those that are deemed different by a select group. This type of legislation is not representative of any fellow Iowan that I know, and those that feel this bill is necessary should review world history.

01-31-2024

Roger Leahy []

HF 2082 strikes a good balance. It protects the privacy and rights of women, while at the same time respecting the rights of persons who identify as transgender.I support this legislation, and encourage our Iowa legislators to enact it as law this session.

01-31-2024

Leiz Chan []

What I take from Iowa Republicans is that their policies and practices revolve around securing and protecting individual freedoms. That is, their own and nobody else's. LGBTQ+ individuals exist in Iowa trans people here at the end of the day are just Iowans like you. They don't bother you. They work. They pay taxes. However, they face alarming discrimination already without the government jumping into the dog pile and removing protections and acknowledgment of their legitimate existence. This bill is shameful. It's not right.

01-31-2024

S C []

As an Iowa mother, I fully support this bill. While I understand and sympathize with anyone experiencing true gender dysphoria, their mental illness should not override my daughter's or other girls rights to feel safe in single sex spaces where they are most vulnerable, such as bathrooms, changing rooms and locker rooms. We have these spaces divided by sex for a reason.You can identify and dress however you want, but no one should be forced to accept your fantasy as reality, all while erasing women's rights. Many extremists in the trans/queer community post videos daily online calling for violence against "terfs" which at it's core is overwhelmingly biological men calling for violence against biological women. Were these men affiliated with any other group other than LGBTQIA+ their comments would be considered hate speech and threatening violence, yet they remain online. These men who wish women harm, are the same folks who want to share our private spaces and play on our sports teams. Protect women and girls. Support women and girls.

01-31-2024

S C []

01-31-2024

Kim Van Es []

I am writing to oppose HF2082. There is good reason that gender identity is listed in codes preventing discrimination. Removing this language puts transgender Iowans at risk. Removing this civil rights protection is bad not only for transgender individuals and their families, but also for business. (Companies avoid states that appear unwelcoming to certain groups of people.) Please do not support HF2082.

01-31-2024

Oliver Schoenborn [Grinnell College]

I strongly oppose HF 2082, which seeks to remove Civil Rights Act protections for transgender Iowans. Transgender people are human beings, and we deserve to be protected as a minoritized group that faces discrimination, violence, and hate every day. Passing this legislation will make us suffer unemployment, housing discrimination, and physical violence even more than we already do in the current political and cultural climate of this country.

01-31-2024

Ann Wayne []

Please dont dehumanize anyone just because you have power. Its unkind, unfair, and frankly disrespectful. There is no way anyones god would promote behavior to exclude anyone else from having human rights simply for being different. Please stop.

01-31-2024

Claire Wood []

This bill directly violates Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes transgender Iowans. These ongoing attacks on LGBTQ+ Iowans are appalling. I was once very proud to be an Iowan but the discrimination and bigotry that continues to spread has made it embarrassing to all Iowans. I no longer recognize this as the place I grew up. Hate has no place here. And this bill is nothing but that. Uphold our motto as a place to grow instead of making a mockery of our values and beliefs.

01-31-2024

Yamini Bhagwat []

I oppose this bill in the strongest possible terms. It is designed to allow discrimination against trans/non binary people and to create obstacles to equal treatment. This is intolerable to me as an Iowan, an American, and as a human being. Being trans/nonbinary is a minority status that deserves explicit civil rights protections. Iowas current Civil Rights law accurately recognizes this need with the inclusion of gender identity as a protected class. Do not change the law. Every Iowan, every visitor to Iowa should feel safe and equal in Iowa. Iowans do not support this malicious bill.

01-31-2024

Jen Frank []

Say NO to this bill. I am strongly opposed. Why would any state or individual write a bill that proposes to take rights away from people who are already a part of marginalized communities who are confronted daily with judgement from others because of who they are not because of a "disability" as this bill proposes.

01-31-2024

Sarah Wood []

I strongly oppose bill HF 2082. Equal protection under the law is an essential protection that ALL Iowans deserve. Directly stated in the 14th Amendment: No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.This bill not only strips away the rights of trans citizens. It also sets an extremely dangerous precedent for other civil rights legislation and protected classes. Everyone deserves human agency.The mere idea of this bill is a blatant violation of our civil rights. Stop trying to legislate hate. Trans rights are human rights.

01-31-2024

Will Kapp []

"It is not possible for one man to hold another man down in the ditch without staying down there with him" Booker T. Washington.I strongly oppose passing this law. The absence of this law hurts no one. The presence of this law hurts thousands in the state. Thousands that are already hurting, already scared, already marginalized. There is no benefit for anyone with this law. Like so many laws being proposed in the Iowa legislature, this one is proposing holding people down. Listen to the words of Booker T. Washington. This only leads to everyone in the ditch. The inverse is also true. If you work with your power to lift people up, everyone will be for the better.

01-31-2024

Edward Caplan [retired]

This bill's treatment of our fellow humans transgender people is unChristian. Don't just take my word for it; look what the Bible says:Matthew 19:12 "For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mothers womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heavens sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it." Read that again: Jesus himself acknowledges that there are nonbinary people from birth AND those WHO HAVE MADE THEMSELVES different than their birth gender. Jesus promises that they too will receive eternal life. Why do the authors and supporters of HF2082 defy Jesus?Acts 8:38 "Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him." Philip, an early Christian follower of Jesus baptized a nonbinary person. Why do the authors behave as if nonbinary people are less worthy when Philip demonstrates they are not?Galatians 3:28 "There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. This is clear. There is little doubt about the point Paul is making: In Christ we are all the same we are equal with one another. Why do the authors of this bill yet again defy Jesus and the Apostle Paul's explicit desire of how we are to treat one another?There are many other reasons, based on America's Constitution, why this bill should be rejected. But since the authors of the bill seem to take their marching orders from the Bible and not the Constitution, I fervently pray they reread the Bible and behave in the spirit of love for their fellow humans. It's what Jesus would do.Thank you,Edward CaplanFairfield, IA

01-31-2024

Kelcey Patrick-Ferree []

As a small business owner, I oppose this legislation.It is absolutely necessary in our current economy not to be hostile to trans rights. Why? Because a huge percentage of children identify as trans. How you feel about that is immaterial. It means that every child in America, statistically, knows someone trans right now. And they know that trans people are people trying to live their lives, just like the rest of us. And overt hostility toward a huge portion of their peers will simply cause them to leave. Taking rights away is never a good look.Iowa has always exported more educated people than it imports or keeps. This bill will hasten the economic decline of the state.

01-31-2024

Kellie Nath []

This bill is a continued attack on my kids, my friends and my family. To remove civil rights protections from a Persecuted Minority Class is legislated hate politics. Making this worse, is saying that gender identity is a disability?! After the State privatized Medicaid the disabled community is already underserved and overlooked. I don't understand the point of this hateful bill except to paint a Bigger Target on the Queer and Trans Community. Please do not pass this bill out of committee.

01-31-2024

Sam Arnold []

Hello fellow Iowans, Today I write to urge you to please consider voting no on HF 2082. As a proud Iowan, born and raised, I am ashamed that our government would try to pass such a bill as this. Growing up we always said our state motto in school, our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. How can we live up to that motto and pass bills such as this? Transgender Iowans have just as much right to freedoms as any other person in this state, this country. This bill is unconstitutional and abhorrent. Passing bills and laws that discriminate against LGBTQ people does nothing but cause great injustice and harm to those who are most vulnerable. I encourage you instead to get involved in with the LBGTQ community see that those who live apart from you are not so different. Please, consider those unlike you and vote no on HF 2082. Thank you.

01-31-2024

C Wood []

01-31-2024

Miranda Finn []

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill and urge our legislators to prevent this from progressing any further. Iowans of ALL gender identities deserve to live their lives without discrimination, especially our trans and gender nonconforming friends.

01-31-2024

Zach Johannes [Caterpillar]

Hi.This bill fails to positively impact a majority population of our state and should be dismissed. Bills of this nature are punitive in intention and are not Pareto efficient.Stop doing this, you know who you are. Leave people alone.

01-31-2024

Rafaela Cadena [Child Advocate, ILN]

I support removing gender identity from this legislation. It was a concerted effort to get it added which finally happened in 2007 unbeknownst to most citizens. I am one of them.This legislation should include only persons/ humans of majority age. Minor is defined below. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/minorIn the United States, a minor is any individual under the specified age of majority for their state or territory., All states define an age of majority, which is usually set at 18, but states like Indiana and Mississippi set it at 21, while in Alabama, Colorado, Maryland, or Nebraska, the age of majority is 19. Persons younger than this age are considered minors, and must be under the care of a parent or guardian unless they are emancipated. Minors are treated differently from adults for many legal purposes including privacy of official records, punishment in criminal matters, or the ownership or transfer of property. Depending on the law of the applicable jurisdiction, a minor may also be legally unable to enter into any contract agreement without parental consent (or that of a guardian), making any such contract void.Persons with disabilities according to the ADA is defined below.https://www.ada.gov/topics/introtoada/#theadaprotectspeoplewithdisabilitiesA person with a disability is someone who:has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities,has a history or record of such an impairment (such as cancer that is in remission), oris perceived by others as having such an impairment (such as a person who has scars from a severe burn).If a person falls into any of these categories, the ADA protects them. Because the ADA is a law, and not a benefit program, you do not need to apply for coverage.It is important to factor in brain development for persons under 18 including up til age 2. Although the brain stops growing in size by early adolescence, the teen years are all about finetuning how the brain works. The brain finishes developing and maturing in the midtolate 20s. The part of the brain behind the forehead, called the prefrontal cortex, is one of the last parts to mature. This area is responsible for skills like planning, prioritizing, and making good decisions. Therefore minors are excluded.See below:https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/theteenbrain7thingstoknow#::text=Although%20the%20brain%20stops%20growing,the%20last%20parts%20to%20mature.Recognizing that the Equality act amended the 1964 civil rights act, it is important to note state rights are stronger than federal rights and therefore the state legislation stands.

01-31-2024

Sarah Chang []

My opposition to this bill is as strong as my faith and as deep as my involvement in my church, where I have been one of the most involved members for years. Nonconforming gender identity is not a disability, and it is unconscionable to consider removal of this or any protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Such a move implies that certain people are less than human and deserve to be treated poorly. Most trans people Ive met are amazing and wonderful, and most Iowans probably know someone who is without necessarily realizing it. People of all gender identities/expressions and gender histories are our families, neighbors, and coworkers, and contribute immeasurably to our communities. Rescinding their inclusion in the Civil Rights Act would cause much harm, rippling far beyond this one demographic. So much for Iowa nice; decisions like this would make many people think, Iowa? Theyre going backwards; stay away! Please reject HF 2082 resoundingly!

01-31-2024

Holly Moore [563-387-7177]

This bill seeks to define gender variance as a disability in order to secure antidiscrimination rights. While some trans and nonbinary people experience gender dysphoria, few see it as a disability, and many more do not experience it at all. To make access to civil rights contingent on a costly and difficult disability diagnosis is evidence that this bill seeks simply to remove the right altogether. Trans and nonbinary Iowans are Iowans, and they deserve exactly the same rights as anyone else with respect to employment, housing, healthcare, and education.

01-31-2024

Erin Ure []

This is a bonkers bill. In 5 minutes anyone could make it clear to you how it is discriminatory and harmful the problem is that you know this and just don't care. You'd rather feign ignorance for the sake of playing politics with people's lives. As a transgender Iowan licensed in your state as a professional engineer (under my legal name, because of how difficult it is to get that updated), I wonder every day if I should move out to another state which will protect and value me. There are plenty and you make them look better every minute.

01-31-2024

Jon Coon []

It is cruel, arrogant, and selfrighteous to tell someone, "You don't have the same rights as I do because of your identity." Taking away a person's rights because of their identity is not "kind" or "compassionate". Trans Iowans do not "impose" their identity onto anyone. Transgender is not a "medical fad". Transgender is not a threat to woman. This bill brings to light Iowa is becoming a cruel and ignorant state.

01-31-2024

Rafaela Cadena []

I support making gender identity a disability in this bill while classifying this bill as it applies to humans/ persons of the majority age and not minors.I support removing gender identity from this legislation. It was a concerted effort to get it added which finally happened in 2007 unbeknownst to most citizens. I am one of them.This legislation should include only persons/ humans of majority age. Minor is defined below. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/minorIn the United States, a minor is any individual under the specified age of majority for their state or territory., All states define an age of majority, which is usually set at 18, but states like Indiana and Mississippi set it at 21, while in Alabama, Colorado, Maryland, or Nebraska, the age of majority is 19. Persons younger than this age are considered minors, and must be under the care of a parent or guardian unless they are emancipated. Minors are treated differently from adults for many legal purposes including privacy of official records, punishment in criminal matters, or the ownership or transfer of property. Depending on the law of the applicable jurisdiction, a minor may also be legally unable to enter into any contract agreement without parental consent (or that of a guardian), making any such contract void.Persons with disabilities according to the ADA is defined below.https://www.ada.gov/topics/introtoada/#theadaprotectspeoplewithdisabilitiesA person with a disability is someone who:has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities,has a history or record of such an impairment (such as cancer that is in remission), oris perceived by others as having such an impairment (such as a person who has scars from a severe burn).If a person falls into any of these categories, the ADA protects them. Because the ADA is a law, and not a benefit program, you do not need to apply for coverage.It is important to factor in brain development for persons under 18 including up til age 2. Although the brain stops growing in size by early adolescence, the teen years are all about finetuning how the brain works. The brain finishes developing and maturing in the midtolate 20s. The part of the brain behind the forehead, called the prefrontal cortex, is one of the last parts to mature. This area is responsible for skills like planning, prioritizing, and making good decisions. Therefore minors are excluded.See below:https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/theteenbrain7thingstoknow#::text=Although%20the%20brain%20stops%20growing,the%20last%20parts%20to%20mature.Recognizing that the Equality act amended the 1964 civil rights act, it is important to note state rights are stronger than federal rights and therefore the state legislation stands.

01-31-2024

Rebecca Carver []

I respectfully urge you to not advance this bill. It will open up a segment of our population to rampant and statesanctioned discrimination. It will further impede access to necessary and essential rights and services in our state. Please vote 'no'.

01-31-2024

Kristin G. []

This bill is in direct violation of Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that all are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes all genders. Im sure that you are well aware that half of iowas population consists of women. Women who have fought hard for gender protection for years. Though if we are more specific, this is an anti LGBT+ attack. The continued attacks on LGBTQ+ Iowans and is embarrassing . Iowa has recongnozied and advocated for LGBT+ safety for over 40 years. With Iowa being among the first states to pass a gay marriage law. I know you value votes so I will put it this way. By passing this bill, you will lose over 100,000 supporters. Thats the amount 100,000 LGBT Iowans, not to mention all their friends and allys who support them. Besides thag remmber that half of Iowans are women who have worked hard for their gender protection. Thats 1.6 million votes.

01-31-2024

Betsy Fickel []

I strongly SUPPORT this bill. Those who believe they are of the opposite sex than they were born with have been mentally deceived. Many of the youth are in the "me, too" category and come to their senses a few years down the road. Seems no one is mentioning the regrets expressed by those that undertook the physical changes. Nor of the suicides because the physical change did nothing for their confused mental state. We need to pray for their release from the mental torment that evil has instilled in them.

01-31-2024

Spencer Armstrong []

As a trans woman born and raised in Iowa, I really take issue with this bill. I was raised with the understanding that here in Iowa, we take care of our own. Religion, race, gender; none of that mattered. We just took care of each other because thats what the right thing to do is. This bill stands in direct opposition to that belief. Revoking civil rights from an entire class of citizens? What has this state come to?

01-31-2024

Caleb Gehle [N/A]

Hello, my name is Caleb Gehle. I am a disabled individual who has a diagnosis of Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy. I am also a part of the LGBTQIA+ community and identify as a pansexual man. That being said, I find this bill absolutely appalling! Now, you may be able to disguise what this bill truly is and what it truly represents behind fancy language, but the fact that you not only want to strip the rights of members of MY community but also classify those members as having a disability when they don't. I understand better than anyone what it means to have a disability because I've lived with one my whole life. In some aspects it can be a gray area to navigate, but not when it comes to the literal wiring of a person's brain (that was explained to me by a nonbinary person and a trans man who both are my friends, yet again more first hand/lived experiences). These individuals are simply trying to live their lives and already have a tough time in life, and this bill will only add to those tough times these individuals face on a daily basis. All of this to say that the fact that this bill is even being discussed is again appalling and frankly absolutely disgusting! Quite honestly as someone who is a future history teacher and historian I cannot believe this is what the founding fathers envisioned for our country and I believe they would be sickened with where we're going as a country. I am truly scared for the future. We should be coming together as a country and as people to create a better future for everyone. This bill is the exact opposite of that and betrays the founding ideals of our nation laid out in the Constitution. It is with all of that said that I implore you not to pass this bill!

01-31-2024

Paige Neebel []

Shoeless Joe is back, and this time he says, "Is this Hell?" This bill is in direct violation of Iowas constitution which states, under the Bill of Rights, that ALL are entitled to pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness. This includes transgender Iowans.This is just one of the continued attacks on LGBTQ+ Iowans and U.S. citizens. Iowa has become an embarrassment in the race to the bottom, and no one could mistake this place for Heaven.

01-31-2024

Janell Wright []

Removing a protected class puts Iowa on the wrong side of history. This hurts everyone and sets a dangerous precedent, because if protections are removed from one, they can be removed for all. That this proposal exists is a dangerous and disgraceful thing for all Iowans.

01-31-2024

David Borger Germann [Sanctuary Community Church]

This bill goes against human rights and U.S. civil rights. This bill also goes against the Christian faith which many of our state Senators and Representatives espouse. As a pastor, I feel strongly about sharing Jesus' vision and calling to "love your neighbor as yourself." How is loving our neighbor to remove rights and protections? No person should be discriminated against due to sexual identity. I urge the committee to not let this bill advance.

01-31-2024

Amy Adams [personal/self]

Removing the rights of a protected class of citizens is a slippery slope. Today Iowa lawmakers propose to take away protections of transgender Iowans, it opens to the door to making other changes to legalize discrimination against anyone else in the state. We should be working to expand rights and freedoms, not legalize discrimination. If this bill passes, it will have wide ranging impacts from housing, employment, and healthcare. We must stop this proposed legislation. ALL Iowans deserve the freedoms and rights afforded to them by our state's Constitution and discrimination against someone based on gender identity should not be legalized. Work to create a state that is welcoming to all where we all have opportunities to thrive.

01-31-2024

Jessica Reimer []

The plethora of antiLGBTQ+ bills introduced in the Iowa Legislature this session is a travesty to our state constitution. We cannot allow a vocal minority to dehumanize people by stripping civil rights from one segment of society. The justifications for these bills are misguided at best and reprehensible in the view of the majority of Americans. STOP focusing on trying to divide the state and nation and turn your attention to improving our infrastructure, maintaining a strong public education system and growing an economy where all are welcome to participate.

01-31-2024

Ashley Merkley []

I am writing in strong opposition to HF2082. Iowa has a history & legacy of standing up for the marginalized and wrongly misunderstood and pioneering action on civil rights & protecting rights for various groups of people. It is wrong to even think of regressing & staining our legacy in the way that passing this bill would do. Passing this bill would do very real harm to many Iowans. Please stand for our state motto of, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. EVERYONE deserves the protection and reality of equal rights. We should be protecting this right for various groups of people and providing equality, love, and compassion. PLEASE do the right thing & vote no on HF 2082. Please dont take us backwards in this way. Be Iowa nice, love your neighbors, and choose love & equality over hate & discrimination.

01-31-2024

Sarah Dasch []

I strongly oppose this legislation. Removing fundamental rights of Iowans and requiring a specific diagnosis is antithetical to the Iowa and US Constitution. I am not required as a disabled citizen to have a diagnosis to have all my rights under the constitution and ADA and no one should ever have to go through such hurdles to live and work here in Iowa or anywhere in the US. Setting this precedent is harmful to transgender and nonbinary people, some of whom do not actually have dysphoria. Preventing people from living being their true selves will also contribute to an increase in dysphoric feelings. Additionally, the sad state of the mental health system in Iowa means that even if everyone did fit the criteria, getting a appointment for diagnosis is out of reach costwise and availability wise, thereby functionally preventing anyone from actually completing the requirements. Please vote no on this bill.

01-31-2024

Anne Salamon []

This is a bad bill and can set a dangerous precedent.Iowans have long supported the rights of ALL citizens. This bill represents a step backwards for civil rights in Iowa. This is the latest volley in a needless culture war that has ramifications that will ripple beyond today's special interests. What group will be targeted next, to remove their civil rights? Gays? "Brown people"? Perhaps those of Middle Eastern heritage? Perhaps those of religions/churches who disagree with the Family Leader? The Republican Party has long stood for "freedom", but this bill goes against that. This bill caters to special interests who believe freedom only extends to those who think like they do, all others can take a hike. We are sliding down a slippery slope.

01-31-2024

Holly Wist []

Being transgender isn't an illness. This is very rude and petty to those individual. Whose life does this actually improve? We don't make laws based on panic, like the 80s. Get a grip. Don't y'all have better things to do than snooping in everyone's private business?

01-31-2024

Cheryl Elsloo []

This bill is being misunderstood and misinterpreted. As Iowans and Americans, we already have the Constitutional right to equal protection under the law. And there are already laws to protect from discrimination against people because of their immutable (unchangeable) characteristics, such as skin color or ethnic background. How a person identifies is fluid and changeable, therefore it is not immutable. Only immutable characteristics should be a protected class.In this state and country each of us are free to live the lifestyle of our choosing as long as it doesnt infringe upon or endanger another persons rights to their sincerely held religious beliefs or personal safety. We should not be coerced into forfeiting or violating these rights. Nor should we be forced to condone and validate another persons belief system over our own.In 2007, 17 years ago, the Iowa Civil Rights Act (Iowa Code Chapter 216) was erroneously expanded to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected classes. Since this expansion there has be a gradual movement from protection to infringement and violation of religious freedom and personal safety rights.Examples of such are: Biological males being allowed to enter female restrooms and locker rooms. A huge safety concern. Biological males unfairly competing against and robbing awards / scholarships from biological females in competitive sports. Not to mention endangering them with potential physical harm. Unwanted public nudity by biological females presenting themselves as males at public swimming pools. (This has occurred in the Iowa towns of Jefferson, Orange City, Pella, Seymour, and Sioux City.) Forced pronoun usage by schools, employers, and organizations. Some individuals believe its impossible to change every cell in a persons body from male to female and vise versa, therefore they are being forced to lie when using preferred pronouns. Sexually explicit and pervasively vulgar books are being made available to children in the name of protecting the LGBTQ+++ community. Removing these books could result in litigation due to the fact that sexual orientation and gender identity are protected classes in Iowa.These are but a few examples of the repercussions of the 2007 unconstitutional expansion of the Iowa Civil Rights Code.

01-31-2024

Katie Baird []

I strongly oppose this bill. This fear based legislation will deeply harm Iowans. Once again, the Iowa GOP is wasting precious time and resources in pursuing an agenda of ignorance and cruelty to strip away the rights of Iowans. We should be supporting FREEDOM FOR ALL. Not just the few. I moved to Iowa from Illinois in 2019 because of the opportunity to live a better life here and because of the warm and welcoming people. As more and more hateful and harmful legislation is proposed and passed, I fear this will no longer be a place that is safe to raise a family.

01-31-2024

Ellen Jones [--None--]

Please vote NO on HR2087 for all the reasons so clearly outlined in previous comments. I am from Fairfield, and Mr. Shipley is certainly NOT representing much of his constituency. I urge him to reconsider this misguided bill, and encourage the other members of the subcommittee to raise their voices loud and clear for civil rights. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Myles Evangelista []

I write to you in strong opposition of this bill not only to advocate for myself and my transgender siblings and our right to exist with a sense of normalcy in the state of Iowa but also to oppose the dangerous precedent this bill would set should it pass. To remove gender identity as a protected class is to allow discrimination on the basis of something as intrinsic as race, age, or ability. We will not be your example.

01-31-2024

Simon Clark []

To pass this bill is to put the lives of over 27,000 trans and queer people in danger. As representatives of your constituents, it should be your utmost priority to protect and serve the people, not place them in harms path. Do not allow this bill to be passed, it will only harm your constituents and place people in danger.

01-31-2024

Eric Schmit []

This alteration of civil rights law is a slippery slope to removing other protected characteristics. This bill only causes harm as we show it is okay to place restrictions on civil rights for certain groups.

01-31-2024

Kirsten Faisal []

Saying that removing civil rights in order to reclassify trans people as disabled to ensure their rights its a crazy example of doublespeak. People experiencing disabling gender dysphoria as described in the DSM are already protected by the ADA. This is a thinly veiled assault on the rights of anyone standing outside of a rigid gender binary to equal protection under Iowa law. It's offensive on every level. EVERY HUMAN should have equal access, equal opportunity, and equal rights. To say otherwise is unAmerican, unChristian, and unacceptable.

01-31-2024

Shawn Woolman []

This bill is needed to protect our women and children. Assaults can and do happen in bathrooms in Iowa and across the nation, and this bill will help give confidence that you are in a bathroom with someone of the same sex. You can still pretend to be the opposite sex while using the bathroom pertaining to your sex, no rights have been violated.