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Permanent LinkIowa Legislature Public Hearings
Public Hearings and times are as follows:
HF 2389 - A bill for an act relating to the term sex and related terms for purposes of statutory construction, including an indication of a person’s sex on certain vital records.(Formerly HSB 649.)
Sponsored by the Education Committee
Monday, February 12, 2024
5:00 PM (introductions begin)
6:00 PM (conclusion of the hearing)
RM 103, Sup. Ct. Chamber
02-08-2024
Rev Brigit Stevens [Self]
CON
Im the parent of a nonbinary teenager, friend and colleague of many LGBTQ+ Iowans, a devoted person of faith, and I strongly oppose this bill!
02-08-2024
Berry Stevens []
CON
I am a nonbinary teenager from West Des Moines and I strongly oppose this bill! It erases my identity and makes me less safe here in my home state of Iowa.
02-08-2024
Timber Stevens []
CON
I am cishet white male teenager from West Des Moines and I strongly oppose this bill! My LGBTQ+ friends and family deserve protection from harm. This bill makes Iowa LESS SAFE for them!
02-08-2024
Kayla Bell-Consolver [One Iowa]
CON
I wrote this at 2am this morning, right after sucking the boogers of out of my 6 months nose and offering her Tylenol because shes teething. Hearing her cry due to discomfort because it feels outside of her control. Some of you may know what that fight looks like. The long nights and days trying to care for your child. I remember being excited for these days as my wife and I navigated through the scariest parts of pregnancy. Again, some of you may know what that feels like too.But can you imagine, what it feels like to go through all of that, to see your child grow to love you just as much as you love them, and have to look them in the eyes and tell them that people who could use their power for such much good, would rather choose the destruction and delegitimization of families? In the Bill, you say the term equal does not mean same or identical but by actual definition of equal says being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value. So I ask, are these changes being implemented to actually help your constituents combat very pervasive experiences of inequality, such as housing, discrimination, job security, violence to self or others? To make the world more equitable and fair and therefore just? Or are these changes recommended because you devalue the lives of trans and queer people and parents? Id hope that I wouldnt have to look you in the eye, then also my daughter in the eye to tell her that the state that was once ahead of the game in creating equality and justice, has leaders that use their power to devalue and delegitimize, in writing and law, loving families that wipe the same boogers and comfort the same teething children as YOU. Id hope I can share with my daughter, who has two mothers, that we have legislators that CARE about EVERY FAMILY, and want to create a world where people BELONG! Or would you rather me tell my child that our politicians could care less about you, unless you look a certain way and have children a certain way? That theyd choose to discriminate even when they have the power make the world safer and loving for everyone. If im wrong, then youll prove that by voting no.
02-08-2024
Breanna Young [N/A]
CON
This bill is harmful and serves no legitimate government or public interest. It should not be passed out of committee.
02-08-2024
Aime Wichtendahl [Aime Wichtendahl]
CON
This bill does protect women. This bill does not protect anyone. It discriminates against the trans population and attempts erase us from existence. Shame on this government for attempting to bring back seperate but equal. Men and women through out the state should feel insulted that it views them as only means in which to fertalize an egg. This bill is unethical, immoral and unconstitutional. Vote no.
02-08-2024
Max Mowitz [One Iowa ]
CON
I will have my public comments prepared when I speak against this bill.
02-08-2024
Joe Stutler [Citizen]
CON
The Iowa Nazi Party's (formerly GOP) Pink Triangle Bill is on par with the rest of their theofascist antiAmerican bills this session, and very reminiscent of actions taken by the government 90 years ago in Germany.
02-08-2024
Shea Daniels []
CON
Like anything that makes us unique or different from each other, it can be very hard to understand what its like to be transgender. Thats life, but it makes discussions like these polarizing. So I want to start with some things that we can all agree on. We are all Americans. We believe in the fundamental promise of this country, that it can give each of us the opportunity for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We are Iowans. Our state motto enshrines these beliefs with emphasis, and our history has demonstrated our commitment to them over and over. We believe in putting our work boots on each morning to build a better future for our families and neighbors.The difficult question is how we best do this. As humans we are flawed. We havent always gotten it right. Its hard to find a direction forward when we cannot understand each other, or when we think our rights are in conflict. But that should not, cannot stop us from trying.These differences are not a weakness. They are actually a strength, as frustrating and as scary as they can be. No one person has all the answers. I certainly dont. I first learned this through professional education in Air Force ROTC. We teach our officers that a military that wants to win doesnt have the luxury of letting differences get in the way. You have the other persons back, regardless of what they look like or who they worship, or who they love. The mission is the most important thing. Its a lesson well worth remembering and I have kept it with me all my life.Its in this spirit that I say this bill is a solution in search of a problem. It is not based on listening to Iowans. The Iowans that I have listened to, my friends and family and coworkers say something different. They say I belong here, that this bill doesnt make Iowa a better, more inclusive place. This bill instead comes from well funded out of state think tanks with an agenda that doesnt care about making Iowa a better place. It comes from a mean spirited worldview that doesnt care about repeating the mistakes of Jim Crow or pink triangles. Its based on discredited moral philosophy and a lack of understanding that leads to fear. We can do better than that!It took me a long time, but I know in my brain, in my heart, and through the best understanding of medical science that I can muster that I am who I say I am. I am a woman. Im not delusional, my identity is not a mental illness, it is not something that can be erased from me through therapy or legislated away from me, or even beaten out of me. Its integral to who I am. I cannot deny that just like I cannot deny that I probably could have had a child with male reproductive organs. Im not ignoring biology, Im accepting it. All of human history, everything weve learned, tells us that sex and gender are a rich tapestry that is more complicated than a few sentences in black and white on a bill. Writing a thing and passing it into law doesnt make it true, or moral.It is those sentences that, if passed into law, might finally make Iowa a place that isnt safe for me. I grew up here, got a National Merit Scholarship here, graduated here, made my home here, and I contribute to the technology economy and community here. It would cause horrible heartache and difficulty for me to leave the state I love, the people that I love. But if its not safe its not safe.This bill would erase me from the law on anything that respects my womanhood. It may prevent me from using spaces that are congruent with my gender, appearance, and current biology. At best, that would confuse a lot of people, but at worst it could lead to harassment, assault, or even murder. I am just as at risk of any of those as any other woman. I'm not ashamed to admit that it terrifies me.I must admit that I was also terrified of being in womens spaces at first. I walked on eggshells. I didnt grow up with a typical womans experience. I didnt want to appear to be an invader of privacy or safe spaces. I wanted to pee with safety for all, even if it meant using a family bathroom 18 floors away at work. It was the women in my life who told me that this was silly and ridiculous. That I was welcome there, that they felt safe with me, that I was part of the sisterhood now. It remains the highest honor Ive ever received. It is these women whose opinion that I respect the most.We dont need this bill. Its inaccurate, reductive, and does not improve the lives of any Iowans at all. We are better than this. There are better ways to achieve the promise of the safe and prosperous Iowa and America that we all want. For this reason, as a citizen of this state and as someone this bill would affect, I must ask you to vote against it.
02-08-2024
Julia Rice [One Iowa ]
CON
I am vehemently opposed to this proposed legislation. I am a mental health therapist, a parent and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. As a mental health professional I cannot support any law that will further marginalize and strip away rights from any individual. There is no evidence based practice or literature in the mental health field that would support this either. What will happen if this legislation passes is it will increase the mental health crisis. Our state is already lagging in mental health care and services, we do not need legislation that adds to the problem. As a parent and an ally, I am disgusted and embarrassed of our states ignorance and quest for power at the cost of individuals and marginalized communities in the name of religion and morals. We need to separate church from state and pitch the morality cause and recognize the proposed legislation is inherently immoral.
02-08-2024
Rev. Paul Uzel [self]
CON
LGBTQIA+ people are WHO they are, not what they do. Exclusion of such people or ANY people because of WHO they are is discrimination, plain and simple.For decades and decades people of color, along with 'white' people, have campaigned for equal opportunity and equal access, to greater or lesser success. That struggle still continues.In the same manner, we MUST NOT deny LGBTQIA+ people of equal opportunity and access because of WHO they are. Religious objections mean a lot to me. There are people whose behavior clearly is contrary to my religious and spiritual beliefs. Yet permitting many people (whose behavior is clearly contrary to my faith) to deny access and opportunity would provide them with the means of excluding them from educational, recreational, cultural, even spiritual opportunities. My church is OPEN. My Lord is welcoming. To do less is contrary to everything I BELIEVE. Permit everyone to believe what they will. Prevent everyone from inflicting their beliefs on others.Thank you. Peace, Paul Uzel
02-08-2024
Katherine Young [Citizen, Parent]
CON
Please stop attacking our LGBTQ children and our fellow Iowans with these bills. They are a vibrant essential part of our communities and we need them to be safe and valued, not bullied by the state legislature. These proposed laws will drive away business, tax dollars, and families from our state.
02-08-2024
Madison Atwood []
CON
Transgender people across the world are at greater threat of violence, oftentimes as a result of being outed. We should not under any circumstances allow this bill to pass, because it would be a violation of transgender Iowan's privacy.It is scary to think of our state having this level of access to a list of transgender individuals. Our government does not need this information, and officials do not need that information on identification documents to do their jobs effectively.As a feminist, this is a nonissue that is a distraction. I wish our government would focus on the things that matter and would actually have a positive impact on the daily lives of people rather than engaging in political moves based on imaginary problems that don't even need solved.
02-08-2024
John Clayton [none]
CON
Adult Iowans should be allowed to identify on Iowa government documents according to their gender identity. This bill is all about religious bullying of LGBTQ Iowa people. There is nothing to fix with legislation. This is all about bullying to inflict harm upon Iowa adults who don't conform to a certain religious view.
02-08-2024
Emily Plummer []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. I wish that our elected officials would stop spending time putting forth hateful legislation and instead would focus on making Iowa a better place to live for ALL IOWANS.
02-08-2024
Courtney Collier []
PRO
The most supreme being in the universe, Almighty and Sovereign God, created each of us in this room today, and He did so with thought out order, and with purpose. He created us male and female. The author of confusion, deception, and death Satan the Devil, deceives people into believing lies about who they are. Isaiah 5:2021 says Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight.This legislation is TRUTH, its based on common sense and basic biology. Up is not down. Down is not up. Right is not left and left is not right. 1+1 still equals 2. People can choose to live in their delusions and confusions in their own lives and homes, but the rest of us should not be forced to join them.I am a woman, an adult female human. I am also a mother, I have ovaries and a uterus that for 9 months developed 3 humans and then birthed them out of my vagina after laboring for hours.NO man a person with a penis and testicles who changes their pronouns, name, or takes hormone blockers and puts on makeup and womens clothing can do THAT!Its truly ridiculous that we need to codify the definitions in this bill and legislate to keep boys and men with penises and testicles out of our designated for women spaces. However, women and girls privacy and safety is being threatened. Biological females are being erased and replaced by this false, nonsensical psychological social engineering trend which is orchestrated by the Devil himself. Pass the bill to protect the actual biological girls, women and mothers in Iowa.
02-08-2024
Alex Body []
CON
This bill seems to be nothing more than an attempt to bully transgender and nonbinary Iowans. It doesnt solve a real problem. Im very concerned about the provisions which will require separate state issued IDs for transgender Iowans as well as the claim that separate accommodations are not inherently unequal. This clearly violates long established constitutional rights and Supreme Court precedent. Not only is this bill immoral, its also illegal. This bill purports to solve a problem that doesnt exist through means that clearly violate the rights of transgender Iowans. I wish I could say I was surprised, but Im not. It seems like a recurring theme in this legislature to target the most vulnerable people in our state for harassment by the government. Despite my lack of surprise, I am deeply disappointed.
02-08-2024
Tyler Pittman []
CON
HSB 649 is inherently discriminatory. By categorizing trans Iowans and stating that "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal" we pave the way to segregation and dehumanization. "Separate but equal" is rhetoric from the Jim Crow era and was ruled unconstitutional in Brown v. Board of Education. Iowa cannot become a state that is unsafe for trans people and youth. My future as a trans Iowan is directly threatened by this legislation. If things continue the way they are, the state will find itself lacking a large part of its LGBTQ population and therefore its workforce.I urge you to oppose this bill in the name of all you stand for as a lawmaker. Please stand on the right side of history and protect marginalized Iowans.
02-08-2024
Nick Covington []
CON
I oppose HF2389. Solidarity with trans people recognizes that bodily autonomy & selfdetermination of your own identity independent of the state is the very foundation of American freedom & liberty. If it is eroded for our trans family, it is eroded for all of us. Trans rights are human rights.
02-08-2024
Anonymous [Urbandale]
CON
As an Urbandale resident I urge you to vote No on this legislation. This bill moves Iowa further in the complete opposite direction of what constituents value and desire. Please stop the continued attacks on the LGBTQIA+ and trans/ nonbinary community and stop advancing bills such as this which make their lives harder and less safe. Its harmful and makes our state less inclusive and our communities less desirable as a place to live for the diverse wealth of people that make Iowa a great place to be.
02-08-2024
Geralyn Jones []
PRO
This is about standing up for what is right and true. I am IN FAVOR of this bill.
02-08-2024
Sheena Grove []
CON
I am the mother of a young and vibrant little girl. She is just like any other kid...constantly doing cartwheels, getting excited about learning new things at school, and making silly faces so others laugh. She adds value to every space in which she occupies. And she's also transgender. She didn't ask for this identity, nor did we wish this upon her. Why would a parent want their child to have increased obstacles and challenges in their life? When she was very young, she told us she was a girl. We said, "ok," but shrugged it off and moved on. But it persisted. She was adamant and we couldn't watch her light dim anymore by not being able to wear the clothes that made her feel good, participate in the activities that got her excited, or loudly proclaim who she is with confidence. This bill, if passed, means my wonderfully intelligent and creative and kind child will be subjected to discimination in every situation in which she'd have to use her birth certificate. She's already going to be met with people who make her feel less than, but this essentially gives permission for people to treat her differently, poorly, or hatefully. I never wish this upon anyone else, regardless of who they are or what they believe in. So why are my lawmakers caring so much about the genetalia of others? Why hyperfocus on someone else's body parts? Our state, our country, have really complex issues facing them. I grieve the days when being in political office meant an elected official was seeking to serve the public. I'm afraid this is another example of how my leaders are not in it for this reason; they're in it to serve SOME of the public. I am strongly opposed to this bill and you should be, too.
02-08-2024
Sandy Wilson [Citizen Engagement]
PRO
Citizen Engagement declares IN FAVOR of HF2389. Please advance the bill.
02-08-2024
Oliver Bardwell [Iowans 4 Freedom ]
PRO
I support House File 2389 because, by clearly defining men and women, it upholds the safety and privacy of women in their most vulnerable spaces like bathrooms, locker rooms, and showers. This bill thoughtfully addresses concerns over the misuse of gender identity laws to violate womens rights without infringing on the rights of transgender individuals who have undergone medical transition. It provides clarity and a renewed protection of womens rights in Iowa. This approach is crucial for maintaining safe and respectful environments for all Iowans.
02-08-2024
Julie Finch [Private Citizen]
CON
I am genuine saddened by the continued persecution of some of our most vulnerable citizens. This is unnecessary and allows bullies to declare "open season" on them. Please halt his legislation in it's tracks, as it is pernicious and unnecessary. Let us allow all of God's children to live freely in our society. "Be ye kind to one another."
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote No on HSB614. Iowa "Nice" has become "In Iowa, You are not Welcome."I used to be so proud of Iowa and our persona of being nice and being welcoming. That is quickly changing. I am no longer proud of Iowa and where our leaders are taking us. It seems to be about power, politics and outright hate.I am a mother of 3, grandmother of 7, and have lived in Iowa almost my entire life. I worked for the federal government for 41 years and now work parttime at an elementary school. I have 4 members of my family who are a part of a protected class and I want that to continue.*We should not allow people to pick and choose which laws they follow or not. *Civil rights help ensure that one person's views and beliefs do not hurt another person.*This law is broad and vague which leaves anyone who might be "different" (black, Jewish, Muslim, gay, transgender, etc) at risk of being harmed.*The law could be used by anyone to claim they dont have to follow any other law, leading to legal confusion.*The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), as originally passed by Congress with bipartisan support in 1993, was designed to protect an individual from the government imposing its will on an individuals religious freedom. It was never intended to place an individuals religious freedom above the rights of another person as has been the case with RFRA laws time and again in states across the country for more than two decades. Please: Stop the hate, stop promoting extremist proposals, and stop playing politics but instead represent ALL Iowans. Return us to Iowa Nice.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am frankly appalled that this bill has even been allowed to come this far. Members of the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa are experiencing attack after attack on their human rights, all under the guise of "protecting women and women's spaces", as if this bill would really do anything to protect them. REAL feminism is about defending the rights of ALL PEOPLE. If Iowa republicans really wanted to protect women, they wouldn't have restricted our rights to access healthcare. Its hypocrisy, bigotry, and fascism all the way down.
02-08-2024
Carson C Fixmer []
CON
As a small business owner and Iowan, I strongly object to this type of legislation that promotes discrimination and provides cover for discriminating by using a false freedom of religion narrative.The US Constitution already protects everyone's freedom of religion. Freedom of religion does not give Iowans the right to choose which laws to follow or not follow and discriminate against fellow Iowans in the process. Please do not spend my tax dollars as both a business owner in Iowa and private citizen taking up unnecessary legislation like this.
02-08-2024
Sora Anderson []
CON
I am opposed to this bill for many reasons. One: why are we trying to take basic human rights away from Iowa citizens? Two: how do trans people having equality and human rights hurt anybody else? Spoiler alert, it doesn't take away anybody else's rights so why try to take away the rights of a minority that is already attacked and bombarded with hate already? Three: This directly affects me as a trans man. I don't want to lose my basic human rights to function in society. I took am an Iowan..I have lived in this state most of my life, I grew up here, and I have friends and family here. A law like this says that trans people are not welcome in their own state and they is wrong. Also "Separate but equal" is very unjust and unconstitutional..Why are we trying to bring back Jim Crow era language and ideology? What has happened to this state to make the legislators what to pass such backwards bills I want to go forwards, not backwards. This isn't the Iowa I know. I'm strongly opposed to HF2389.
02-08-2024
Thomas O'Donnell []
CON
This law would legalize discrimination against a tiny and vulnerable part of the population. Trans people have existed for centuries, even in Iowa. They've lived among us with few issues. Conservatives have landed attacking Trans people because they know the issue motivates voters, few of whom have contact with Trans folks and fear the unkknown. Don't put people into a subclass. Reject this bill.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
As a child, I wished to be a doctor, but Im not. As an adult, I have wished to be beautiful but alas, I am not. We can all wish to be or even pretend to be someone else but we are who God designed us to be. For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.Luke 8:17 NKJVhttps://bible.com/bible/114/luk.8.17.NKJV
02-08-2024
Terri Hale []
CON
This bill is unnecessary and is disrespectful of our transgender friends, family, neighbors, coworkers and community members. Why are we wasting time on legislation designed to erase a segment of our population when there are so many other real issues that need to be addressed?This is cruel. It is created by people who do not actually know transgender Iowans. Anyone who hasnt taken the time to get to know several trans persons is not qualified to vote on this measure. Trans Iowans are human beings like you and me and they deserve the same rights as us. Shame on Iowa if this measure passes!
02-08-2024
Dan Jansen [Iowa LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce]
CON
AntiLGBTQ and discriminatory legislation will have negative economic and workforce consequences on the state of Iowa. Placemaking is a priority to our State to attract young, diverse, and talented individuals and businesses to Iowa. AntiLGBTQ and discriminatory legislation create unnecessary hurdles in the effort to grow our workforce and retain existing talent. The LGBTQ community contributes $1.7 trillion annually to the US economy. Let's work together to identify how to attract those dollars to our state rather than shutting the door on placemaking and sending folks away. Stop creating more economic and workforce hurdles that ultimately prevent people and businesses from investing in the state of Iowa and hurts Iowans who love our state and call it home.
02-08-2024
Cynthia Paschen [NA]
CON
Looking forward to this.
02-08-2024
Dawn Dillman []
CON
When I moved back to Iowa in 2021 25 years after moving away, it was with the reassurance that my home state had been a reasonable state that took into consideration peoples rights and liberties, and thought to treat people with respect. However, this bill attempts to marginalize others by outing their private information and choices. This bill is not respectful of others, and does not create a better life for others. In addition, as a medical doctor I can attest that the medical terminology is completely unclear. For example, a woman like Jamie Lee Curtis who never had ova would not qualify as a woman and her reproductive system is not designed to fertilize an ova so she would not qualify as male, and does not have a medical disability. Please say no to this poorly conceived and worded bill.
02-08-2024
Ysandril Morrigan [N/A]
CON
As a nonbinary transfeminine human I am revolted by Iowa Republican commitment to relentlessly targeting me and my trans siblings. Trampling on the civil rights of trans Iowans must be vehemently opposed. This bill reflects fascism and nazi era elements that should terrify anyone. We as people must stand against bigotry; hatred and discrimination. Do not advance this bill. End the political posturing and the torment of the marginalized trans community.
02-08-2024
Terri Holterhaus [GSA Club in Fort Madison, Iowa]
CON
Vote NO on this proposed bill. NO one has the right to tell someone else how to live their life. People need to mind their own business and focus energy on what matters. Gun control, mental health facilities, Education, police training, affordable childcare, adult education to get employment, livable wages. BUT THE ONE THING THAT DOES NOT NEED TO BE DEALT WITH IS THE TRANS COMMUNITY. They are fine upstanding citizens and they have done nothing wrong. VOTE NO TO THIS BILL!!!
02-08-2024
Shellie Flockhart [As a citizen]
PRO
As a woman, i want to make sure that our safespaces are preserved for biological women. I do not feel that i, or my daughters are necessarily safe with men, in our safespaces. Womens sports are for biological women. Womens restrooms and locker rooms are for biological women. Womens groups, such as a victim services group for domestic violence, is for a biological woman. A definition has become necessary. Please keep women and daughters safe. Last week, as i spoke, as a woman, the opposition tried to silence me by screaming over my time to speak. That said a lot. Some men are still trying to silence women. That is the kind of aggression and lack of respect that i dont want in womens safespaces.
02-08-2024
Jocelyn Krueger []
CON
Do not fall for the false narrative of fear that says transpeople are dangerous, mentally ill, or militantly invading our communities, a fear that seeks to exclude, like this bill does, a few and vulnerable number of Iowans. Instead let us invest in creative solutions that create spaces and opportunities in which all Iowans can participate and thrive. Vote no.
02-08-2024
Sophie Bumgardner []
CON
This bill is horrific and disgusting. Separate accommodations arent inherently unequal?? That is the same rhetoric used during the Jim Crow era to segregate people. Nazis used pink triangles to indicate queer people. If we dont stop now, our feet will be covered in the mud walked in before. People dont feel safe staying in this state. I have friends and family who are trans minors and they dont deserve the relentless attacks adults are throwing at them. Focus on taking action on things that actually affect everyone in the state, not a minority.
02-08-2024
Nick Sturtz []
CON
I was born, raised, and lived my entire life in Iowa through the end of last November. I was proud to be an Iowan, but bills like this have shown me that leadership in the state are more concerned with advancing their political futures by advancing farright nonsense. Legislation like this is why I left Iowa, why I am no longer proud to be an Iowan, and why I will never return until people presenting bills like this are out of office or finally start to put Iowans, especially minority and marginalized Iowans over their own greedy political futures.I cant wait to see Iowa start to lose population as younger people leave for states where actual value comes from the government, and those left (with the outdated, hateful views espoused by this bill) pass away. I cant wait to see Iowa lose house representation because population is declining. And finally, I cant wait to be able to point out the current members of Iowa government pushing bills like this as the cause so they can finally be seen as they truly are: hateful greedy people who will make lives miserable for minorities just for the hope of enhancing their political career. May history look on you all more kindly than I do, and may you never have to endure the hat you are putting others through.
02-08-2024
Pamela Mix [Self]
CON
I urge you to vote NO on HF2389. As settled by the US Supreme Court nearly 70 years ago, separate is inherently unequal. In the context of this bill, separate explicit tells trans people that they dont belong in certain spaces and are therefore unequal. This bill also violates even a minimum standard of privacy by outing trans people up to and including public disclosure of the status of their genitals. There is no other aspect of public life where it is polite or acceptable to openly discuss someones genitals. This bill blatantly discriminates against trans people, further subjecting them to greater harassment and violence. There is no data to support the perception that trans people pose a threat to anyone just by being trans. Therefore there is no justifiable rationale for this legislation other than outright discrimination. Trans people belong in all spaces.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I'm shocked that in the modern day we're putting forward a bill that marks people's vital records with "Pink triangles" with full awareness of how the pink triangle has been used over the course of history. There's no evidence that suggests that this bill will protect any women, and could likely be used to discriminate against cis women who suffer from hormonal disorders, intersex folks, and trans women. All trans people will be outed by anyone who has access to their records or ID, as in the case of Employers, Housing, and Law enforcement. There is no reason that the current processes towards transition need to become more stringent, and no reason to more stringently define what a man and woman is. This is a blatant attempt to establish a precedent for further discrimination.
02-08-2024
Rev. Medea Saunders []
CON
I have never known anyone on the side of disadvantage who believes that inequality is a good thing!Jesus told his followers to render unto Caesar what is Caesar's laws, taxes. Jesus also told his followers we shall love God with all of our heart, mind, and spirit, and love our neighbor (even our enemy) as we love ourselves. Jesus tells his followers that we have no greater responsibility than for the common good. Legislated or not, inequality is not an acceptable social posture for any religious person. Vote NO on this horribly cruel bill.
02-08-2024
Trisha Rivers [Great Plains Action Society]
CON
I would like to speak on behalf of an Indigenous cultural perspective of gender and how this bill can create discrimination directed towards our Indigenous communities in Iowa.
02-08-2024
Rev. Debra Griffin [Downtown Disciples]
CON
As a pastor in Des Moines and an active voting citizen, I oppose this legislation that puts my parishioners, friends and neighbors in danger. I would like to speak from personal experience.Pastor Debbie Griffin
02-08-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
The strict definitions of sex in this bill effectively erases the lives and autonomy of nonbinary, intersex, and transgender people. If you are transgender under this bill, you must have surgery and fully transition before being recognized as transgender, forcing people to undergo medical procedures they may not need or want in order to be lawfully recognized by the State. It is intimated that the State can attempt to verify the sex change, and I wonder how it intends to do so. In addition, it requires this surgical transition to be noted on legal documents such as a changed birth certificate, going directly against HIPPA laws and exposing the private medical information of an individual anywhere they may need to show their birth certificate. For a gender marker to be changed on a drivers license, the birth certificate needs to be changed, which means the person needs to surgically transition. What if the transgender person doesnt need or want surgery? Why is the State defining what it means to be transgender without working with transgender Iowans?The State is creating strictly defined human sexuality boxes where the human experience does not neatly fit and never has and is closing every door to participate freely and without prejudgment in Iowa civil life. For many of our youth, transgender, or nonbinary, simply being called the appropriate name, using the preferred pronoun and gender marker saves their lives. This is not hyperbole. You can save lives.Many people know they are transgender very early in their lives. Under current Iowa law, one cannot medically transition until they are 18, while at the same time this bill says the state wont recognize you as transgender until you have had surgery. Not every transgender person needs or wants surgery, but every transgender person requires the freedom and liberty to exist as they are. Vote no.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The people of Iowa have already expressed their disdain for these "seperate but equal" laws for members of the queer community. They have been proven to lead to nothing good, especially if a designated group is forced to mark themselves as such on IDs, which historically has opened them up to discrimination and worse. These laws are not necessary for the safety of Iowans in fact, quite the contrary. And for those who fear that trans women may encroach on the safety of cis women, I need only remind that anyone is capable of committing violence against others, whether they cis, trans, whatever. Zeroing in on one group of people will not keep cis women safe. Other people choosing to transition does not threaten my being a woman. While I myself am cis, a portion of my closest friends identify as trans, and I feel perfectly safe with them to be as I am. In fact, I find myself fearing more for their safety than I do mine, and these laws only add to this fear. We do not need this law.
02-08-2024
Erin G []
CON
Please do not consider passing this bill. We should be working to create a better Iowa for all who live here and not passing restrictive bills that limit the rights and freedoms of our residents. This is not the Iowa many of us want to live in. Many of us have friends, families, coworkers, or others in our lives that this will significantly and negatively impact.
02-08-2024
Josephine O'Donnell []
CON
Jeepers Creepers, what is going on in the Legislature this year? Do we really, honestly, urgently need this law? I mean, how much more up in people's business do our legislators and governor need to be to satisfy yourselves? Iowans know better than this. We used to know how to mind our own business if it wasn't hurting anyone else!
02-08-2024
Jonah Higinbotham [none]
CON
legislature like this makes me feel unwelcome and unsafe to live here in Iowa as a transgender American. I have as much human rights as everyone else.
02-08-2024
Sarah Schroeder []
CON
I am very strongly opposed to this bill. Segregation has been proven time and again to be detrimental. Othering trans Iowans will cost lives.
02-08-2024
Michael Maxwell []
CON
This legislation is not designed to solve any harms, rather its sole purpose is to inflict harm upon a segment of Iowans that these state representatives have decided should not exist. Take their ideology to its logical endpoint, and youll see this is about genocide. I know thats a strong word, but the shoe fits. How about instead of bullying queer people who are already vulnerable in this state you use your time and energy to address real problems facing Iowa like water and infrastructure.This gay and trans bashing is all a bunch of cheap grandstanding from an increasingly desperate and unhinged Iowa GOP that has been radicalized beyond recognition. These proposals are not constitutional, and if, God forbid, they pass then this state is going to be sued to high heaven. Im tired of our politicians being liabilities who cost us taxpayer money because they want to get on Fox News so badly. Scoring points with trolls online is not what these politicians were elected to do. This is so, so low.
02-08-2024
Melissa Dally []
CON
Iowans deserve better!! "Separate but equal" was bigoted & wrong after Plessy v Ferguson and it would be wrong in this case as well. LGBTQIA erasure is wrong and that is what this bill aims to do.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I do not understand the purpose of the government defining what is "male" or "female" in regards to their assigned sex at birth. It is inherently misogynistic and unscientific to define a woman specifically as someone who has a reproductive system that produces ova. Many intersex women and men exist that do not fit this rigid definition. The workaround is to claim them as disabled, which is also misguided. A citizen's private medical history is thoroughly none of the government's business. I believe the claim of these invasive bills is that they protect women, but they put us in danger. Please revisit basic biology and stop policing women's bodies. Sex is not a binary in nature, no matter how hard you try to convince yourselves that it is.
02-08-2024
Anonymous [Trans Advocacy Group]
CON
As a non binary person, this bill would erase me from the law.
02-08-2024
Teresa Bomhoff [Self]
CON
I am fervently against HF2389. Some call this bill the LGBTQ Erasure Act. Sure seems like it. Other words to describe it: A case of harassment, bullying, disrespectful, uncivil, illmannered, insulting and scornful.It is particularly alarming the Governor is sponsoring the bill. This isn't a case of needing statistics for state records or protecting women or some other veiled reason. It is singling out a group of human beings for embarrassment, belittling and questioning their right to exist.The civil rights of LGBTQ persons is under attack.Flourish in Iowa? I think not.Please do not move forward with HF2389. Thank you.
02-08-2024
Angela Gates []
CON
The goal of this bill is to create means to intimidate and harass individuals who do not fit the model ideal of female and male. I can think of no good reason why a marker needs to be in place on (for example) a driver's license that indicates what a person's genitals are. Think about that. Put it in plain language. A person hands their ID to security at a concert when they enter an event. Security person reads the ID and says "oh, it says here you were born with male genitals. You don't look like you have male genitals." How is that relevant in day to day life? That person is then opened up to harassment and inappropriate behavior from others simply because of an 'M' or 'F' on the ID. Individuals with gender dysphoria or who simply live their lives as nonbinary are faced with the unnecessary requirement to fit into a box that simply doesn't fit.
02-08-2024
Kelly McConnell [None]
CON
This bill is morally wrong. Transgender people already face enough discrimination in their everyday lives. We are not asking for anything more than what others are already guaranteed. We have been around from the beginning of history. There are Roman emperors who would be considered Transgender. There were surgeons who served in the Civil War who lived their whole lives as men. Why are Transgender people now considered such a threat that we have to be marked as separate, less than, and dangerous. You know who else treated the LGBTQIA population this way. The NAZI party of Germany Millions were exterminated after they were forced to wear the pink triangle. What right does anyone have to our private business. Would you force cancer patients to indicate in a very public manner that they have cancer. Or those who have diabetes. The treatments for those are kept between the individual and their doctor. Why are transgender people and their medical care any different. If you force transgender people to use the bathrooms of the gender assigned at birth you will end up with transgender men in the womens room I as a trans man have a beard, deep voice, and a flat chest. If I walk into the womens room as this bill would require I will quite probably assaulted. However, if I use the men's room I would be in violation of the law. How does this protect anyone. If I were to go to prison which is not likely because I have a clean record. Do you really think I belong in a woman's prison, although I would probably be safer than a transgender woman in a men's prison. Again how does this protect anyone. Religion is being used to force this othering of LGBTQ people, but the constitution strictly forbids the states from establishing a religion. I contend that legislating based on one religion is establishing a religion.
02-08-2024
Matthew McIver []
CON
It is deeply concerning to see an attempt to put the discredited "separate but equal" language of Plessy v Ferguson into Iowa law.This bill would treat trans people as second class citizens. The identification requirements would force them to out themselves in situations which might not be safe, and which certainly are an invasion of privacy.But as deeply concerning is the language around the definition of genders and parents. The state does not have a compelling interest to interfere in the functioning of families in this way. This is a profound example of government overreach, and will have negative consequencesunintended or notfor diverse families.The legislature needs to get out of people's homes and get back to doing the business of the people. Fund education rather than attack teachers. Safeguard our liberties rather than attacking marginalized communities. And get politicians out of the doctors' officesmedical decisions should be between patients and doctors, not legislatures.
02-08-2024
Rachel Henning []
CON
I oppose this bill which would harm members of the LGBTQ community. The idea that laws like this are designed to protect women is false removing rights and protections from one group of people ultimately harms everyone. If the true interest is in protecting women there are a great many things that could be done which would have more impact and relevance. Please don't advance this bill any further.
02-08-2024
JOHN T. CARR []
CON
There is no doubt that freedom of religion is important and one of our nation's fundamental and shared values. That's why it's already protected by the First Amendment. I am opposed to this dangerous and unnecessary bill. Especially since it will affect so many people in the Trans Community by exploiting their personal information for republican's desire to discriminate.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is inherently unconstitutional and incredibly discriminatory towards an already diminished and marginalized group of Iowans that seeks to only strip a downtrodden group of their rights and protections of the law. The people of iowa do not want this. The people of iowa do not need this.
02-08-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I vehemently oppose HF 2389. According to the widely accredited 2015 survey of transgender Americans, nearly of individuals who presented IDs where the sex listed did not coordinate with that of their presented gender identity reported being denied benefits or service, asked to leave, harassed, or physically assaulted. Instances of violence in such cases were far more prevalent for transgender people of color. Representative Hora was unable to speak to the necessity of this bill more than a vague claim of statistical and administrative purposes, which make no sense in the context of governmentissued identification. This serves as evidence that the proposal of this bill is simply a power trip to further enable and perpetrate brutality against a shining and resilient community Iowa is lucky to be home to. The insistent legislative abuse of already marginalized groups must end. I ask that you vote against this bill.
02-08-2024
Gordie Felger [Freelance]
CON
Im writing to you about HF 2389. Im running out of words about the bills coming out of this legislature. So, Ill use these words.Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will MaintainFreedom to FlourishLove thy neighborDo unto others as you would have them do unto youWhy do these apply to some Iowans but not to all?How about these words? Separate accommodationsNo matter how you define it, separate accommodations means segregation.Those legislators who support this bill (I know not all do) and others like it protest loudly that they are not targeting any particular class of people but merely looking out for the safety of Iowans. But your actions and rhetoric point to a pattern of behavior that certainly looks like discrimination. These bills are couched in nonthreatening, ambiguous language, but the intent seems clear. You privilege the rights of some over the rights of others. One need not be a legal scholar to see it. Im writing in strong opposition to HF 2389.
02-08-2024
Ariel Godwin []
CON
With all earned respect to the Iowa State legislature, the very fact that this proposal attempts to reintroduce, in more or less these exact terms, separate yet equal a phrase which was explicitly used to promote racial segregation by arguing that it was exempt from the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment should be signal enough that this law is regressive, anticonstitutional, and objectively on the wrong side of history. I cannot condemn it strongly enough, nor can I more strongly state my opposition to any laws which attempt to limit rights or introduce legal discrimination based on sexual or gender minority status in the state of Iowa.
02-08-2024
Abigail Cornejo []
CON
I oppose this bill. It does nothing but further harm the amazing trans and nonbinary people in our communities.
02-08-2024
Kathleen McElligatt []
CON
The point of this bill is to legislate hatred and oppression towards an already marginalized group. There are not just two sexes. There are multiple sexual orientations and even multiple physical manifestations of sexuality. But you already know this. You choose to pursue a hateful course and I cannot express how adamantly I am opposed to your actions.
02-08-2024
Luca Jenkin []
CON
Iowa was the first state to desegregate schools in the nation even before the decision made in Plessy v. Ferguson that decided that facilities can be separate but equal, yet that exact same phrasing is now being used to become one of the first states to separate facilities by sex instead of race. As a trans person in Iowa, I want to be proud of the state I come from, to talk about my school years with fondness, and encourage others to come to our wonderful and diverse state, however; with the passing of HF 2389 I find it hard to talk about the love for my state I used to have.
02-08-2024
Denise [Perez]
CON
The US is NOT a theocracy. It is AGAINST our constitution. 1A is applicable to the states. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.You are creating an Iowa where people can openly discriminate against each other. What if you go to a restaurant and the owners religion dictates they don't feed blasphemous people, and refuses to give you service? There is no doubt that freedom of religion is important; its one of our nations fundamental values. Thats why its already protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution. The rule of law is also important, and we cant just create sweeping religious exemptions that encourage people to pick and choose which laws theyre going to follow.This religious exemption bill is vague and will be abused and create chaos in all aspects of daily life. It creates exemptions for virtually anything that a person contends is part of their religion, and it makes our laws harder to follow. Broad religious exemptions open the door for people to claim they have a right to decide which laws they will and wont obey, creating uncertainty for law enforcement. In the late 1990s, for example, a Religious Freedom Restoration Act was used to justify landlords refusing to rent their properties to unmarried couples in violation of fair housing standards. This bill is not good for public safety, its not good for business, and its not good for Iowa. Please vote no on HSB 614 to protect the rule of law and preserve true religious freedom for all Iowans.
02-08-2024
Elizabeth Lundberg []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. First, I fail to see what it has to do with education and why it would advance through this committee. Second, (and actually relevant to education) "separate but equal" was overturned with Brown v Board of Ed. Third, there is zero reason to mark someone's trans status on their stateissued identification, unless it's part of a larger plan to surveil, harass, and discriminate against trans people. Fourth, these antitrans bills, in addition to being hateful and dangerous, are fueling Iowa's hiring crisis by driving away our state's young people and ensuring that no one from anywhere else wants to move here. Iowans are sick of these constant attacks against a tiny and vulnerable minority population. Vote NO on this bill. Leave trans people alone.
02-08-2024
Angela Ellerbroek []
CON
I oppose this bill.Quote painted on wall (above stairs) while going to the chambers of the Iowa Capitol Building:THE IDEAL STATE THAT IN WHICH AN INJURY DONE TO THE LEAST OF ITS CITIZENS IS AN INJURY TO ALL. LOOK UP IOWA ELECTED LEGISLATORS! Read the quote today on your way out....just above the stairs. YOU ARE INJURING LGBTQ+ FOLKS WITH SPECIAL FOCUS ON TRANSGENDER PERSONS...injuring OVER and OVER. Please just educate yourself instead of making these bills. Use legitimate sources. There are actually very important things to resolve transgender is not one of them.WE NEED THE IDEAL STATE. NOT A STATE OF HATE.IOWA CAN DO BETTER.
Attachment
02-08-2024
Rachel []
CON
As a high school student recently learning about Supreme Court cases, the rhetoric outlined in this bill rings eerily similar to the rhetoric used in the Plessy v. Ferguson case, where separate but equal accommodations for black people were allowed. This was overturned in Brown v. Board of Education under the notion that even if these accommodations were equal, the lack of diverse exposure harms the development of children. Are we really going to go back to segregational rhetoric, defending the use of separating members of our society for no reason? My transgender classmates are as human and as valuable as my cisgender ones. I do not want to live in a state that insinuates any type of people as anything less than equal, that separates its citizens based on arbitrary labels. Iowa is supposed to be a state of kindness and acceptance, not building walls between us and our neighbors for something as meaningless as gender. I have never one felt threatened by my transgender classmates. I see ZERO need for this bill in the first place except to be used to spread hateful messages and transport Iowa back in time to the 1960s. We are better than that.
02-08-2024
Julie Powell [Des Moines Intentional Eucharistic Community]
CON
I am deeply saddened by the proposed transgender legislation HF2389 and I am holding all of you close to my heart asking you to stand in the shoes of our transgender Iowans to protect them, to feel what it is like to be excluded, to live each day in caution and fearnot because you have done anything illegal, but because of who you are by birth. Their deepest yearning is to belong, to be accepted.I am reminded of a sentence I read in one of my science textbooksEverything belongs. That was wrapped around with all the science explanations of how everything is connected, but that phrase imbedded itself and changed how I see everything around me. It has been a wonderful journey, and I invite you along.I know this is a long letter, but I hope you will keep reading.Some time ago I made a commitment to become more deeply informed about the lives of our transgender brothers and sisters. I wanted to stand in their shoes, but I had no idea how to do that. So I joined a support group as an ally and with a promise to be witness to their stories. I couldnt have imagined what I would learn or the tears I would shed. The story from a mother whose teenaged transgender son committed suicide because it was too hard to live in his body. The story of a transgender woman who feels so alone. The hate stares. The threats. The denial of necessary medical treatment. I am still learning. All of this is a result of a culture of exclusionand all of us suffer. This is an opportunity. The most beautiful lesson for me is realizing that the transgender community understands better than most of us how to stand in anothers shoes. Over and over again, I have seen their compassion for each other and even for those who have rejected them. We have much to learn from them. Please protect our transgender citizens. I am pleading with you to let your heart be cracked open and to oppose this legislation. Please vote no HF2389.Sincerely,
02-08-2024
Kathleen M Winter [- Select -]
CON
Stop...just stop already. This is nothing more than another attempt to discriminate against an already marginalized segment of our fellow Iowans. These are just regular people, wanting to lead a regular life, you have no data, no statistics, no problems, no issues to support this type of legislation. Iowa has skyrocketing cancer rates and is 49th in the nation in nursing home care. Fix real problems and stay out of peoples personal life. Enough already.
02-08-2024
Annie Sarcone [DSM Queer Youth Resource Center]
CON
The DSM Queer Youth Resource Center is opposed to this bill. I will have my comments prepared to share at the public hearing.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I dont have the words to express how strongly I oppose this bill, but I will do my best to convey the absolute rage and heartbreak I feel about it. I was at the subcommittee and committee meetings for this bill, and its CLEAR that everyone who voted in favor lacks the most basic humanity, and Heather Hora frankly has no idea what shes talking about. She was asked about the separate but equal language in the bill, and could not explain what equal meant in this context. Need I remind us all that the last time separate but equal was codified into law was Jim Crow? She was told the bill was poorly written and should not be moved forward, and her response was that the bill was fairly straightforward despite her inability to answer questions on it. As for the content of the bill, it is disgusting and discriminatory and would give anyone from employers to landlords the legal basis to deny basic needs to trans people, simply for being trans. Requiring trans people who wish to update their birth certificate to get two gender markers will immediately out the person as trans to anyone who sees it, potentially endangering them. Hora couldnt give a straight answer to the question of where a trans woman would be housed in detention centers based on her changed birth certificate, once again demonstrating that she has no grasp of the realworld consequences of this awful bill. Further, when asked what purpose this birth certificate clause serves to the state, Hora said administrative purposes. Can you all not see how terrifying it is for the government to be able to keep record of who is trans and who isnt? Theres a REASON this bill is colloquially known as the pink triangle bill.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please stop this discriminatory bill. Attempting to narrowly define sexes is not for you to do. We should be broadening our understanding of gender and allowing people to determine who they are for themselves. The lies and vilification of transgender people is amoral. Stop making up problems. Separate not an option. Again, a problem doesn't exist.Creating identifying forms/documents about transgender people is invasive, dangerous and illegal (HIPPA). The general public should be concerned about where you are going from hereidentifying marks for who else?This simply treats transgender people as less than and something to be abolished. Shame on you.
02-09-2024
Loulwa Soweid []
CON
I staunchly oppose this bill. Trans and genderdiverse Iowans exist, have always existed, and will always exist. Bills like these, which attempt to define people based on rigid binaries, not only erase their identities and experiences but also out them in potentially unsafe situations. Trans communities are a historically marginalized group and we do not need another piece of legislation that others them and places them at greater risk of harm.
02-09-2024
Vimka []
CON
I am a transwoman that wants to understand why yall continue to bully us. i want you to look in my eyes when you spit at me and try to make my continued existence illegal.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
As a Christian I am so tired of politicians perverting the teachings of Jesus. Jesus teachings had one common theme LOVE. He made no exceptions. He instructed us to love everyone. It doesnt mean we always have to agree with someone, but it does mean we should make an effort in everything we do to treat those around us with basic dignity and respect. He also instructed us to go forth and make disciples of all nations. We absolutely cannot do that if our actions actively push people away. Thats like trying to win a football game by continually handing the ball off to the defensive line. Or like passing laws that discriminate against people with whom we may not see eye to eye. Stop confusing legislation with evangelism. You cannot force someone to accept Jesus through legislation. The one and only way to bring someone to Jesus is through love. This is not love. It is cruelty, disrespect, and flat out hatred wrapped up in a nice little bow and falsely labeled as Christian Values. And with respect to the label separate but equal are you all serious? Do you not know history? Do you not understand what this phrase represents and how poorly this reflects on Iowa that our representatives are resurrecting this racist (an apparently now homophobic) ideal? Lets also think about what it means when we pass laws that favor one set of religious beliefs over another. When that happens, we are not protecting our religion, were setting precedents that actually erode our religious protections. Were saying its okay to favor one religion over another. Those very precedents can eventually be used against us should the percentage of Christians as compared to the overall population continue to decline (which would not be at all surprising do to actions like these that actively push people away from God). We need to protect the religious rights of everyone, even those we disagree with, because this ensures that we are also protecting our own rights. Stop the nonsense. Let people live their lives. Treat them with dignity, respect, and love.
02-09-2024
V Fixmer-Oraiz [Resident]
CON
This is a huge overreach of state government and a dangerous path to authoritarianism. We cannot let bills like these pass.
02-09-2024
Ryan McGivern [Iowa Tax Payer]
PRO
I urge Iowans to SUPPORT this bill. It will do so much to protect women's rights, especially to protect intimate spaces that are being violated (domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, restrooms, and locker rooms).I applaud all those involved with writing this bill and working to get it passed. Please vote in favor and support of this bill.
02-09-2024
Jayme Ironside [NA]
CON
I oppose this bill. For less than 1% of the population that is trans, why are you wasting time and money on this legislation. Additionally, you are being discriminatory.
02-09-2024
Ashley Miller [None ]
CON
Im an Iowa native and have lived here my whole life. I grew up attending Christian school, where I was taught being gay and trans was wrong. That it was a problem that needed to be fixed. I no longer believe that. One of my best friends is transgender. Im so blessed to know her and am proud to call her my friend. It hurts to see how much distress Iowas antiLGBTQ agenda has caused for her the past few years. My challenge to our Republican legislators: have you actually taken the time to speak with transgender Iowans? Or spend a few minutes getting to know them? No one should be singled out or discriminated against simply for being their authentic selves. Everyone in our state deserves the same freedom and rights.
02-09-2024
Anonymous [None ]
PRO
As a cisgendered woman, I have never once, in my entire life, felt unsafe sharing space with a trans person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a lifelong citizen of Iowa, I do, however, now feel quite unsafe in my state because my government is continually targeting the LGBTQ community with bills that infringe on peoples rights and liberties to be who they truly are. I was once very proud of Iowa when gay marriage was made legal. I am now truly ashamed of my state and the bigotry that makes fellow Iowans feel unequal and shamed. Bills like this are dangerous to the mental health and wellbeing of transgender children and adults, and they lead to things like depression, isolation, and suicide. Stop targeting the trans community, and the LGBTQ community as a whole, with bills that have no logical basis other than hatred. Stop making an already marginalized population more vulnerable and unsafe. Enough is enough. LGBTQ rights are human rights, and trans people have the right to exist, free from prejudice, in the state of Iowa.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am a foster parent in Southeast Iowa with intentions to adopt one of my foster children. The state of Iowa asks us to take these children in and provide them with safe, loving homes. These children can already feel less then and are often traumatized, this bill can cause further trauma when a two parent household that happens to be same sex promises to love that child forever and only one of them can be on the birth certificate. How anxious will that child be, worried something may happen to the parent on their birth cert, will they be taken away from their other parent like they were their bio parent(s)? Could they be put back into the system? I also see this as a deterrent for same sex couples to foster at all in Iowa which would reduce an already low number of available homes for these children who are so in need. We will be absolutely devastated if only one of us can be in our sons birth certificate when our adoption is finalized. This bill is terrible for families and terrible for children.
02-09-2024
Izzy Kippes [Trans People of Iowa]
CON
I urge a no vote on HSB 649/2389, introduced by Gov. Reynolds last week. This is explicit language declaring that gender is strictly related to sex assigned at birth. In practice this allows the state to legislate trans people out of existence. Included in this bill is the infamous "separate but equal" language, as this was the same language used to justify segregation of schools and businesses by race prior to the Civil Rights Movement.A house republican supporting this bill commented that if "trans people are so proud of being trans, they should have no problem indicating as such on their ID". Opponents are calling this the "pink triangle bill" in reference to the pink triangles that nazi germany forced gay men and trans women to wear sewed into their clothes.Unlike nazi germany, in the state of Iowa, trans people currently reserve the right to transition and live freely as their sex. This bill changes that. This bill would force a trans man to carry with him identification that refers to him as woman. This bill would force him to out himself as a trans man, assigned female at birth, to any future employer or renter, as well as any police officer that pulls him over, or any bartender serving him a drink. This bill is demanding that trans people carry a pink triangle with them attached to each and every single one their documents to signal to any individual wishing them harm that this individual is transgender, information that is only ever pertinent to and already readily available to their medical providers and the court processing name change requests. This bill is a solution searching for a problem.If supporters of this bill are so confident that trans people are exploiting the right to transition in order to cause harm, using legislation as it currently exists, we demand that they provide evidence of this. I know that instead they will provide nothing but silent support for legislation that provides no material benefit, just culture war. Iowans deserve better.
02-09-2024
Anna [Crenshaw ]
CON
Please do not pass this bill. Transgender youth and adults deserve the same protections and rights as everyone else.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Hello. My friends call me Asher. I came here today from northwest Iowa to discuss HF 2389, a bill that would segregated transgender Iowans. This bill has no purpose other than to legalize discrimination of transgender people in Iowa who make up 0.29% of our entire population. I am transgender. I am Iowan. Your persistent attempts to erase transgender people from public life will fail. I was born and raised in Iowa. My entire life has been here. Iowa is my home. We are here, we are queer, and we are not going anywhere. Stop using LGBTQ+ Iowans as a political bargaining chip for your farright extremist agenda. You are playing with fire. Instead, I want to encourage you all to shift your focus from demonizing small, marginalized populations of Iowans, and start working for the people! This bill and other antiLGBTQ+ bills are a waste of time as you all twiddle you thumbs, waste taxpayer dollars, and think of how you plan to attack the next group of vulnerable Iowans. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and TwoSpirit Iowans have always lived in Iowa and we will forever live in Iowa. We are your neighbors, your coworkers, we are friends not foe. We are flesh and blood as any other human. The dehumanization of transgender people by the Iowa GOP is appalling. Our existence has never and will never pose a threat to anyone. Peace, love, liberty and justice for all. Vote NO on HF 2389. Protect LGBTQ+ Iowans from segregation and discrimination. Thank you.
02-09-2024
Leandra Sunseri [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I object to this bill. It solves no problems. It causes them and it is motivated by hate, prejudice, and ignorance. It goes against the "Iowa Kind" that use to be our heritage. Iowa has a proud civil rights history that is being destroyed by the majority party in the legislature.
02-09-2024
Christine Wehrman []
PRO
I speak in favor of this proposed legislation for the safety and security of women throughout the State of Iowa.
02-09-2024
Leslie Schwalm [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I am opposed to this bill and ask that you vote it down. It reveals deep biological ignorance on the part of the bill's authors about the tremendous anatomical, physiological, hormonal, and genetic variety that occurs in what we might call "biological sex." But even worse, the bill reintroduces a legal concept that was shot down in the 1954 Supreme Court finding that "separate but equal" is a philosophy that produces discrimination and inequality contrary to constitutional rights. I get itscience and law are complicated. But if you are going to try and pass laws, don't you think you should be better educated about science and law? I also oppose this law because it is clearly discriminatory towards trans citizens, who share all the same civil rights of any other Iowan and American citizen. If that fact frightens you, then you are burdened by some terrible caricatures about your fellow human beings. Shame on you.
02-09-2024
Nick Bergus []
CON
Proponents of this bill suggest its common sense to try to callout trans members of our state when instead it will simply create a problematic separate but equal system to openly discriminate against Iowans. This bill should be opposed.
02-09-2024
Dara Makohoniuk-Martin [None]
PRO
This has directly impacted our son while in the 5th & 6th grade attending a public west des moines elementary school.
Attachment
02-09-2024
Mary Schenkenfelder []
CON
This "separate but equal" bill is not only unapologetically unconstitutional, but also unapologetically discriminatory. Trans women are not a threat to women. They are women, and deserve the same protections every woman deserves. This bill would harm those it claims to protect and should not be allowed to progress any further.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I believe the bill as constructed is designed to codify a limited sexual binary in a way which specifically outs trans individuals in birth certificates, restrict trans people (particularly trans women) from basic facets of public life (restrooms, locker rooms) to support systems (crisis centers and shelters). Restricting trans folks does nothing to protect anyone's health (we are not a disease), safety (we are not inherently dangerous), or privacy (we are more likely to have our privacy invaded than those of cis folks).This bill, in addition marking us forever as trans on our vital records, precludes recognition of nonbinary and intersex folks. It heavily encourages discrimination. Most egregiously, it sets into law a form of "separate but equal" but only for genderrelated matters.
02-09-2024
Kathy Graeve []
CON
I am opposed to HF2839. This bill solves no problem that Iowans are experiencing and furthers the harrassment and discrimination against trans Iowans. What purpose does this bill serve? How will the state or Iowans benefit from this proposed bill? We are in a state that has a severe labor shortage so how does the legislation make Iowa an attractive state to live and work in? Again, what purpose does this serve and what problem does it solve? There are actual issues that deserve attention rather than the continued assault on individuals who are trying to live their life.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am straight fourth generation Iowa born male. What is this attack on trans people all about? Who cares what they want to be, Jesus loves all. Shame on you for going against the teachings of love and acceptance. At least the ID requirement dropped out. Scarlet letter anyone? Sad days for a proud state.
02-09-2024
Lincoln Addis [Wapello County Demcrates]
CON
Please stop attacking and start supporting LGBTQ citizen rights
02-09-2024
Rev. Jessica Margrave Schirm []
CON
As a mother, as a minister with the United Church of Christ, as a cisgender woman, and as an Iowan who cares about every single one of my Iowan neighbors, but especially the most vulnerable and least protected among us, I am adamantly opposed to this bill and beg my elected official to ensure it is stopped in its tracks. In solidarity with likeminded Iowans in the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa I believe that no one deserves to experience discrimination. Equality under the law should be a priority in Iowa.Separate but equal is never equal. Our nations history teaches us that lesson. We must learn from and not repeat our history that causes discrimination of any group.Its wrong to single out and attack any group of people, including transgender people, just for living their lives and being who they are.We don't need to understand everything about each other to treat one another with dignity and respect. Iowa law should reflect those values.The federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) prohibits discrimination based on gender identity. Requiring government funded or run domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers to treat transgender women inconsistent with their gender identity places federal funds at risk.Please do not allow this bill to move forward. Respectfully,Rev. Jessica Margrave Schirm
02-09-2024
Connie King []
CON
Why on earth do you want to do this bill? What's the point other than harrassing transgender people? How will this bill improve the DAILY life of Iowans? Obviously, it won't. The only purpose is to make life harder for a certain group of Iowans because the governor and legislators don't want to deal with real issues, like water quality and economic development in rural areas. The governor seems to have an unhealthy obsession with transgender people; perhaps her mental health should be checked. Oh, wait! It's nearly impossible to get mental health care in Iowa because there's no money for it and no plans to fund it. Work on what REALLY needs to be done in this state, and LEAVE TRANS PEOPLE ALONE.
02-09-2024
Clara Hess []
CON
What purpose does the government have in recording the sex of private citizens? How will this information be verified? If someone is suspected of lying about their sex on official documents, does this give officers the authority to conduct genital exams? How does this law plan to define sex for individuals who are intersex, or who simply don't gall within the average range of characteristics for their sex?This law is obviously an effort to harm and erase transgender, gender nonconforming, and intersex Iowans. It is a gross overstep in government authority to become involved in some of the most intimate and personal aspects of our lives. Those who push these laws do so to commit harm against those they consider "deviant" because they don't fit into the narrow borders of what they themselves are familiar with, but it won't be long until these laws are used to attack anyone. They are arbitrary and dangerous to the freedom and privacy of Iowans.
02-09-2024
Michael Eckert []
CON
This bill wrongly singles out transgender and nonbinary people for invidious discrimination.
02-09-2024
Jess Bierling []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. As an Iowan, I do not want my tax dollars going to the fees associated with the lawsuits that will be filed to show that this legislation is unconstitutional. Separate but equal was abolished 70 years ago, and this hateful attempt to bring back such a philosophy is demeaning to all Iowans. As a transgender Iowan, I navigate life as a woman, and all of my documents are appropriately marked female. My friends, and the overwhelming majority of Iowans, as indicated by the public comments on HSB 649, know that there is no public need to force me to disclose my medical history. I began my transition in 2014, and twice I have had someone see me washing my hands in the restroom, and they turned around and walked out. No words exchanged, no confrontations. On the other hand, in that same time, I have had cis women friends physically confronted and threatened for 'being in the wrong restroom'. In both of these cases, the restroom was being used for the intended purpose, and there was nothing harmful or illegal happening. Hate breeds hate, and this bill will only cause harm.
02-09-2024
Lauren Linnenbrink []
CON
No one deserves to experience discrimination. All people are worthy of being treated with dignity and respect. Iowa law should reflect those values.Our nation's history teaches us that Separate but equal is never equal. We must learn from and not repeat our history.Its wrong to single out and attack any group of people just for living their lives and being who they are. We have actual issues to combat in Iowa; why is our state fixating on something that doesn't address food insecurity, mental health services, or supports for the unhoused?
02-09-2024
Rachel Stern []
CON
HF 2389 leaves out any reference to gender or sexual diversity, including intersex individuals who do not neatly fall into either "male" or "female" category. Narrowing the definitions to a set of reproductive organs is not only inaccurate given the existence of intersex individuals and gender diversity, but also offensive to any woman who is not able to conceive, does not possess those organs for any number of reasons, chooses to be sterilized, or chooses not to reproduce at all. Separate but equal is an antiquated philosophy, and I would hope the lawmakers present would understand the historical implications of including this phrasing in the Iowa law, regardless of the category of people that are considered "separate." Permitting discrimination based on any sex or gender is a shameful conclusion for the Iowa government.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
HF 2389 is a bill that is fundamentally flawed in its definitions, ignores the existence of trans men, has a goal that is not only unecessary, but does the exact opposite that it seeks to do, and serves only to support future state violence.The bill is fundamentally flawed in its vision. It seeks to protect women in womens spaces but neglects to consider the existence of trans men and the impact restrictions incur for them. Trans men being forced to be in womens spaces would do nothing for feelings of comfort or safety in any space, just as it leaves vulnerable trans women being forced in mens spaces.People are in best comfort and safety when in the spaces they feel they best belong in, and trans men are so often left out of the thought processes of these bills in the desperate reach to keep cis women safe, not thinking how laws would only create the problems they think are happening.The other much more important matter is the term of equality. If equality does not mean same or identical, then what does it mean? Finding the definitions of equal youll find the term same throughout them. They are terms that are synonymous. The term is being contorted here to one end as a source of discrimination as the government sees fit. The term as it is written in the bill is an impossible paradox.The bill also introduces violations in the private health and safety of individuals. Having a government marking of transgender individuals lends itself to future targeting and discrimination. Creating a list of citizens and making their medical history, things that should be kept private to the people, to be displayed in a manner that allows trans people to be tracked in government documents is dangerous for their safety. What purpose does this bill serve to do? If a person has transitioned, the detransition rate is 1%, with half of that 1% retransitioning later in life when they feel safer or more secure. These people arent going back in forth in identity. The identity being fully changed allows for these people to move on with their normal lives. If even their IDs can be fully changed, then when would it become necessary to break out a birth certificate?Hypothetically, a trans woman goes into a womens bathroom. Minding their own business, not doing anything out of the ordinary, as is the usual behavior. If someone stopped them and called them out for being trans, and this trans woman had an ID that said they were female, what happens then? A trans woman would still be able to go into womens spaces all the same. So how is this bill keeping women safe? Theyre not in danger in the first place evidently given the lack of harassment cases from trans people in private spaces, but how is this bill doing anything? The only way I see it being used is for government tracking of trans individuals for further violence and discrimination down the road.This reeks of paranoia and ignorance.This bill is halfbaked and has more holes than swiss cheese.
02-09-2024
Melissa Koch []
CON
Stop focusing on sex. What genitals a person has is only relevant to them and their doctor. There should be no legislation requiring people to reveal this information to anyone. We have so many more pressing issues in Iowa (e.g. health care, clean water, addressing climate change). Stop focusing on sex, and start focusing on what matters to Iowans.
02-09-2024
Heather Riley []
CON
I strongly, intensively oppose HSB2389 and urge you to vote NO on this hateful and hurtful legislation.I am the mother of a trans adult who lives happily and peacefully as a contributing member of society in Iowa. He is an accountant, selfsufficient, has a clean criminal record, and a wildly supportive family. I can think of no other reason to pass a bill requiring my child to disclose personal, private information on a governmentissued ID than to harass, embarrass, and discriminate. This is a radical invasion of privacy and a hateful measure toward a very small percentage of our population less than 1%.This bill is dangerous ideology; singling out a minority group for discrimination and mistreatment.Please, please do not pass this bill and focus, instead, on issues that will advance the lives and livelihoods of Iowans. Our state government does not need to know what is in each Iowan's pants.
02-09-2024
Roberta Gilbert []
CON
Does Iowa really want to be known as the state that resurrected the legal doctrine of separate but equal? Why would Iowa want to embrace that kind of discrimination against a portion of its population?
02-09-2024
Alexandra Gray []
CON
I find this bill to be cruel and disgusting and repeating a violent part of our collective history
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am against HF 2389. This is an invasion of privacy and discrimination against a minority group of people. The monority of Iowans
02-09-2024
Anders Dietz-Swenson [N/A]
CON
Stop with the "culture wars" discriminatory "legislation" (otherwise known as nonsense), and start ACTUALLY legislating FOR, not AGAINST Iowans... you can start with addressing the 51st(!) ranked mental health system, among other areas of crisis in this state.
02-09-2024
Patricia Sheller [None]
CON
Separate is NOT equal! Kindly stop dumping on trans folks.
02-09-2024
Judy Hull [Me]
CON
I am against the LGBTQ Erasure Bill. We need to love and support these individuals. This is a cruel bill. The attacks on the LGBTQ need to stop!
02-09-2024
Rachel E. Gulick []
CON
Does anyone sponsoring this bill honestly think this is the way to create a greater sense of belonging for the people of Iowa?I am a Queer, nonbinary, 6th Generation Iowan, with three small businesses, a farm, and work as the Executive Director for a local arts nonprofit serving cisgirls, nonbinary, and trans youth, ages 7 18. I was raised in a conservative Republican, evangelical Christian household in Des Moines. I voluntarily listened to Rush Limbaugh and went to sleep listening to Michael Reagan. Now, I am neither a Christian nor a Republican. As I have grown, listened, and learned, my perspectives and understanding of the world and my part in it, have changed. My upbringing taught me to stand up for what I believed in, even if it was unpopular, and to speak out against injustice with love, empathy, and compassion, even if it was at the hands of those in power. I want to live in a state where individuals with extreme religious views are not constantly allowed to undermine and dictate my liberties and rights, via legislative action... and get special access to policymakers and our governor. Separation of church and state must be the imperative within governmentenough of these ridiculous bills, seeking to impose a specific type of religiosity on the general public of Iowa. I want to see the data that demonstrates this or any recent "identityspecific" bill is a highpriority topic for Iowans, with a sampling that is substantive enough to call for this bill; substantive meaning that it is broadly collected across all Iowa counties, and communities therein, and demonstrates a truly macro and scaled approach.The lockstep politics within the IOWA GOP has become an embarrassment to our representative democracy. Legislators must represent both those who voted for them, along those who did not. Where have all the Governor Ray Republicans gone? Ray understood that we must put PEOPLE OVER POLITICS, personal agendas, or private interests for that matter! The ramifications of this toxic culture the IA GOP is fostering in our fields of opportunity & communities, will shrivel the vine of any potential, any growth, and any chance of preventing further brain drain from our state... not to mention tourism... since that seems to be such a current priority. We don't have mountains or oceans, we have ARTS & CULTURE. These bills target the welcoming committee which is comprised of the diverse and expansive communities that make up arts & culture organizations and entities in Iowa. The report on Arts & Economic Prosperity (AEP6), facilitated by Americans For the Arts, found that "Arts and culture organizations strengthen the visitor economy. Onethird of event attendees travel from outside the county in which the activity takes place, and they spend an average of $60.57 twice the amount of their local counterparts."(AEP6 & Forbes) You are gutting any potential for a prosperous and engaging future in Iowa. Yes, come to Iowa where we'll actively police your body, gender presentation, who you love, your ethnicity, your immigrant status, and every part of your identity that doesn't fit into a limited group's mold or notion of the world.Our young people and those most marginalized by these policies are suffering physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally, all because of the toxic rhetoric being used to justify these bills. You cannot control the effects these bills have within communities, how your words will impact those who "don't fit" into the narrowminded boxes you have designated and could manifest as literal ammunition against anyone who is differently different. Unfortunately, we have seen this now, first hand, in Iowa. With this bill, and so many like it being pushed through our government at an alarming rate, you have positioned Iowa as an extremist state, with smallminded views of the world. Stop these targeted tactics, which fostered animosity, instead of compassion. Work to bridge the gap between experience and empathy, not how to legislate hate.I now live in a constant fear of what these bills bring along with them, beyond the scope of what's written in them.
02-09-2024
Denise A. Klemp []
CON
Transgenders are continually being targeted and this bill is one more example. The majority is suppose to protect the minority not persecute them. Somewhere over the years, the Republican Party has lost its sense of compassion.
02-09-2024
Lynne Porter []
CON
Stop taking away the basic human rights of transgendered human beings. This bill is cruel and unnecessary , and frankly, based on ignorance, heresay and fear, not facts. I am angry that this legislaure (and this governor) is obsessed with trying to make unnecessary laws focused on attacking transgender rights. Shame on anyone who votes in favor of this bill.
02-09-2024
Andrea Becker []
CON
This bill is bad for Iowans.
02-09-2024
Polly A Antonelli []
CON
All of us have friends, family, and/or relatives of friends who are LGBTQIA. ALL OF US even if you don't know it. Choose to treat everyone kindly and equitably. This bill is not kind and seeks to be divisive. Please vote NO.
02-09-2024
Daniel Dorman [None]
CON
Please do not support this.
02-09-2024
Bill Holmstrom [Retired ]
PRO
So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken fron the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, This is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. "YOU EITHER BELIEVE GOD'S WORD OR YOU DENY HIM. I CHOOSE TO BELIEVE.
02-09-2024
Michelle MIller []
CON
I do not understand the extreme hatred promoted in these bills. To alienate any part of our communities because they make you feel uncomfortable is unconscionable. I was once proud to be in a state that was welcoming to all. Iowa Nice seems to be no longer an accurate statement. If you hadn't noticed our population is no longer growing in this once great state. Our youth are fleeing do to policies like these. Please reconsider this bill that panders to those who fear what they do not know and return to the Iowa that once was.
02-09-2024
Mary Jobst [Woman]
PRO
Please move this bill that simply defines the objective reality of our two sexes, and will protect the vulnerability of women and children in private spaces and athleticsThere are only two sexes, male and female. Sex is an immutable biological reality. Sex is determined by the presence of XX (female) or XY (male) chromosomes at conception and then recognized via external genitalia at, or before, birth. Sex can also be recognized through a persons reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics. Because there are only two types of gametesperm or ovawe know that human sex is an objective, binary trait, and does not exist on a spectrum. People with disorders of sexual development (DSDs)do not constitute a third sex. Rather, DSDs are a pathology in the development and formation of the male or female body.Gender Identity is an individuals selfperceived or desired status as male, female, both or neither. Gender identity is selfasserted, based on feelings, and is subject to change over time. It is important to note that gender identity is based entirely on subjective claims that do not depend on a physical or mental health diagnosis. Men/Boys and women/girls are not the same. Bodily sex does not change according to how we identify and our anatomy clearly demonstrates that men and women are meaningfully different from one another. Sexspecific restrooms and locker/shower/dressing rooms simply recognize these unchangeable physical differences and do not treat anyone as inferior. This is unlike racial discrimination addressed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, enacted to protect persons of color from being treated as secondclass citizens because of an unchosen, unchangeable, identifiable trait: the color of their skin. In contrast to skin color, gender identity is a subjective, unverifiable, and chosen identity. It is not bigotry to acknowledge the biological differences between men and women.
02-09-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is unbelievably malicious and exclusionary for Iowans who dont adhere to the narrow definitions of man and woman being put forth. The state has no business getting involved in how people define themselves, especially when the end result of such legislation is very clearly the discrimination and harassment of trans Iowans. This bill makes me so angry I can barely speak.
02-09-2024
Jenny Turner []
CON
There is no reason for this bill except hate. Do not pass it further.
02-09-2024
Evy Raes []
CON
How does this bill make life better for Iowans? How does this bill address the daily problems we face of unsafe bridges, unclean water, and the lack of funding and attacks on public education? The only purpose of this bill is to marginalize and denigrate the LGBTQ+ population of Iowa. VOTE NO!!
02-09-2024
David Camp []
CON
For a party that talks a lot about freedomthe Republicans sure work hard at taking away freedoms from women, parents of trans kids, and LGBTQ+ persons. The Republicans have become a bunch of religious nut cases who are obsessed with regulating or eliminating anything that has to do with sex or gender. This is NOT your fathers Republican Party!
02-09-2024
Emy Gregg []
CON
I am adamantly opposed to HF 2389. My wife and I have 2 beautiful children and we were both able to sign their birth certificates in the hospital, as parents should be able to. Taking that away from a parent due to a definition or a political agenda is wrong. This bill is once again designed to single out and discriminate against a select group of people that some choose to dislike. It is wrong and should not pass!
02-09-2024
Lisa Martincik [Citizen]
CON
This bill serves no purpose but to perpetuate falsehoods, create and depend divisions in the state, and cause harm. It protects no one, which honest research into the topic would clearly show. And it is part of a national agenda being mindlessly furthered across the country. Ask why, honor truth, say no. Oppression is the mask of fear.
02-10-2024
Lily Vajgrt []
CON
I've lived in Iowa for 44 years and never in my life have I seen such a regressive and hateful onslaught of legislation simply aimed at taking humanity away from a group of people in my life. What HF2389 asks to do is to declare that trans, intersex, and nonbinary people do not exist in the eyes of the state, and tries to enforce a sexual binary onto gender identity. This sets a dangerous precedent to allowing forced gender assignment on intersex individuals from birth, a procedure that many get wrong, and force someone into a body that they don't align with in their mind. You're also forcing trans individuals to identify as a gender they don't belong to. Contrary to what this bill asserts, sex and gender are NOT the same thing, this bill seeks to call them one and the same.Per current IDPH guidelines, an individual seeking to amend their birth certificate must go through a process of medical disclosure of their process to gender reassignment through hormone replacement therapy OR gender corrective surgery. The way the body changes when estrogen is present nullifies all sexual characteristics of the male or female body and renders them unable to procreate eventually. This is why you do not need GCS to apply to change the sex designation on your birth certificate per current guidelines. These guidelines are quite well in line with what WPATH recommends as basis to alter gender on the birth certificate.This bill would require the state to identify someone's sex designation based on genitalia and subject to inspection of an affadavit of costprohibitive surgeries, placing an undue burden on transgender and intersex people in the state to have an expensive surgery and according to page 5 lines 1517 state that the person will STILL have their sex at birth listed on their AMENDED birth certificate. So this would permanently mark trans people on their birth certificate, and in no way shape or form can we ever escape it under this bill.This bill would force people who look like women into men's spaces, and people who look like men from outward appearance into women's spaces. The fact that you can't see the long game of this legislation shows how blatantly full of hatred and bigotry it is. Trans women are not in women's spaces solely to assault, we have literal data to disprove that assertation. They are there because it is the safer of the two spaces, instead of being forced to be placed with a gender based on genitals against their will, based solely on whether or not they've had a surgery most cannot afford. This is creating a registry of trans people and putting that knowledge in the hands of the state. The dangerous precipice this puts us on is unconscionable and utterly disgusting. This information will allow those with their own biases against the trans community to misgender them and place them in accomodations where they will be unsafe due to the effects of HRT. This will lead to violence against trans people incarcerated in our state. This bill serves no purpose other than to brand us with a birth gender we no longer align with based solely on genitalia at birth, with no thought given to how the brain and body develop. The science does not back this Pink Triangle given to us, and is legalized discrimination.
02-10-2024
Ann Hardy [None, concerned Iowan]
CON
Please preserve equal rights for all Iowans and defeat HF 2389 which targets transgender Iowans! The bill redefines equal under Iowas Civil Rights laws and that is wrong. Please vote no!
02-10-2024
Sheila Gregan []
CON
Vote no on this legislation, it is more of the same from Iowas extreme Republicans.
02-10-2024
Katie Colling []
CON
Stop with this harmful and demeaning effort to try to make people something you feel more comfortable about, rather than allow individuals the space and support to manifest their own destiny. It is NOT the Iowa Legislative's business to invade the personal privacy and development of an individual human being, so abandon this spiteful legislation and get back to work on important matters such as school funding since you just missed your own selfimposed deadline for the next fiscal year.
02-10-2024
Kristen Anderson []
CON
This bill clearly seeks to erase and further marginalize transgender and other gender expansive Iowans. It doesnt seek to fix any discernible problem beyond the existence and flourishing of LGBTQ people and families. It is a disgusting bigoted and shameful attack that will only further harm groups of people that the Reynolds administration has deemed unworthy of rights and protections. For shame.
02-10-2024
Mary Allen-Des Jardins []
CON
Advocating for my son in this situation
02-10-2024
Renee Greenlee []
CON
I am not going to go into all the details of how this insane bill is discriminatory and will result in physically, mentally, and emotionally harmful repercussions for the trans and LGBTQ communities. You heard those details last week and many of you decided to ignore those facts. For those in favor of this bill, remember that you are elected to make decisions that keep all Iowans safe and healthy, especially marginalized communities. Remember that it is your JOB to look at data critically (I.e., instances of trans women hurting cis women in state institutions or bathroomshint, nonexistent) before making assumptions in a situation. Republicans who spoke last week sounded extremely ill prepared and completely without intelligent answers to the most basic questions about this bill. Show your constituents that youve done your due diligence to learn about these communities and individuals and their needs. Your duty is not to only serve majority communities such as white, straight, cisgender Christians. You have a duty to serve minority communities, too. Finally, stop playing God with peoples lives. You were not assigned this duty by an higher power. You were, however, elected by Iowans and Iowans did NOT ask for this bill. There is no need for the proposed changes because NO HARM is occurring with the current situation. Let this bill go and move on to legislation that truly helps our state.
02-10-2024
The Rev. Wendy K Abrahamson [The Episcopal Diocese of Iowa]
CON
The Episcopal Diocese of Iowa believes every person is lovingly made by God, period. We also believe every human with self reflection can follow a journey over the course of life to become closer to whom it is God intends us to be, and this includes the journey transgender persons take. By requiring their gender at birth be indicated on birth certificates after transition, the bill undercuts their entire personal experience and selfunderstanding. It serves no practical public purpose, and instead sets apart a group of people as somehow needing to be tracked.We believe this bill stigmatizes transgender Iowans and treats their identity as though it is not genuine or real, at best; and at worse treats them as a threat by the inclusion of the government restroom restriction.Jesus sets before us his example of receiving one another gracefully, and at face value, as he does us. We believe this bill does the opposite and we pray the committee will not support it.
02-10-2024
Jill Purcell []
CON
Who asked for this hateful bill? Let me guess, Republicans will trot out one of the 5 moms for liberty members that speak on every awful bill they propose. You make our state a backwards place no one wants to live in or move to. We have real problems in this state child care, elder care, mental health care, water quality, under funded public schools and you waste time on bills attacking out own citizens. Republicans should be ashamed.
02-10-2024
John Whitty [Citizen]
CON
This bill is a horrendous attempt to solve a fictional problem that does not exist. Instead of solving actual problems that face the citizens of Iowa, this bill is a blatant attempt to require citizens who should be afforded freedom of religion (and freedom from religion) to live their lives according to the religious beliefs of this bill's authors and supporters. I would caution legislators that this is a slippery slope toward Iowa becoming a theocracy, but we've already slid down the mountain and we're there. This kind of legislation, that solves no problems and takes rights away in the process, is why good people actively choose to leave Iowa.
02-10-2024
Kari Bassett [None]
CON
Knock it off with the facism & bigotry.Protect & respect LGBQTIA people.
02-10-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Instead of taking away rights and freedoms from the people that live in this state, shouldn't our government try and focus on actually helping people? These bills do nothing but promote a culture of hate.
02-10-2024
Susan Futrell []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. This is an attempt to undo a century of hard work and commitment by everyday Iowans to making our state a fair and welcoming place. This bill imposes the private beliefs of a few on the lives and wellbeing of all. It goes against our state's history, our motto, our beliefs and our values. If passed, it would benefit none and harm many. If passed, it would make Iowa a place of fear where few will want to build a life. It will harm our economy, our safety, and our legacy. Please in the name of common sense and common decency, do not vote in favor of this arcane and hateful bill.
02-10-2024
Ryan Maher [Not speaking for org]
CON
Of all the issues facing Iowans, real issues, it is insane that this governor and her allies are choosing to pick on a small group of Iowans. Instead of trying to legislate those you hate out of existence, perhaps you should start getting to work to make Iowa a place that young people want to move to and young people want to stay in when they grow up. The brain drain is real, and the filth getting passed here is partly to blame.
02-10-2024
Terese Grant [League of Women Voters of Iowa]
CON
This bill would do harm to many Iowans and is totally unnecessary. We should be accepting to all individuals and not pass laws like this that are discriminatory.
02-10-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is harmful to queer people living in Iowa including same sex parent families and transgender people in Iowa. Passing legislation to continually make Iowa a less safe place for marginalized residents will continue to drive people to move to states that do not actively seek to make living there difficult and dangerous for them. I never recommend anyone to move to this hostile state due to the continual efforts to pass bills like this.
02-10-2024
Victor Tobias [None]
CON
Why do we need to go out of our way to single out and mark any person that is in any way different than ourselves? This is a disgusting and hateful display by Kim Reynolds. Kim could spend her time on anything else. An example, Iowa is number one in the nation for bridges in need of repair. Has been for years. Instead of spending time addressing a real problem, Kim has decided to make one up. She has found a group of people that she can bully around. Her cruelty will be how she will be remembered and a stain on all Iowians.
02-10-2024
JOSEPH BARRON []
CON
HF 2389 is bad for Iowa. The State should not pass laws that would enable discrimination against its transgender citizens.
02-10-2024
Mother of my Transgender Daughter and Mother-in-law of my Transgender Daughter-in-law. []
CON
As a loving Mother of my kind, loving, beautiful, brilliant, highly educated, Transgender Daughter and for her loving, brilliant, hardworking, witty wife, my Transgender Daughterinlaw, I want to comment and have my "voice heard" in stating that I am absolutely and in vehement opposition of HF 2389.My main comment and rhetorical question is to those in favor of passing this bill is, what if your son or daughter is Transgender? How would this bill make you feel about their safety and the discrimination directed towards them? This bill is against basic human rights. " Human rights should never discriminate". "Human rights should never depend on someones race, gender, class, sexuality, abilities, religion, or any other part of their identity". This "Mama Bear" of my Daughter and Daughterinlaw, will stand up, fight for and along side them to insure that HF 2389 fails. Governor Reynolds and those committee members who are in favor of this bill, you have no right to to try to erase my family, nor anyone in the Transgender and overall LBGTQ+ Community. Don't let that horrible time in history repeat itself!I close by quoting Courtney Reyes, executive director of One Iowa Action. "Over and over again, the focus at the Statehouse seems to be on relegating LGBTQ Iowans to secondclass status, Reyes said. We have had enough". This "Mama Bear"100% agrees! Enough is enough. HF 2389 must not fail. Thank you.
02-10-2024
Morgan dodge []
CON
This bill is unnecessary at best, and "addresses" a non issue that most iowans don't think should be a priority. Iowans want our representatives to focus on things that will actually help us, like better support for public education, mental healthcare services, and addressing issues relating to inflation and our economy.
02-10-2024
Connie Baker [N/A]
PRO
2/12/2024Pro for the Bill for Iowa definitions of male and female.I fully agree that we have come to a time where common sense and science must step up and speak out for the obvious in defining female and male sexes at birth. There are obvious differences! It appears that there are some who want to disregard the differences in what makes a female female or a male maleWhere were these students & adults during biology class or what are they being taught contrary to the laws of nature? The influences in the world have distorted what has been set up from the beginning of the creation and the natural order of things and is trying to persuade young minds and young adults into thinking that there are other, better ways to live as the opposite sex or transform themselves into something they are not.When the natural laws of creation are manipulated enough to the unnatural, you will have the downfall of humanity.So, yes I agree with the bill and defining sexes in the State of Iowa, as it has come to a time when we need to protect the rights of those who stand for our children, grandchildren, and those unborn babies, they have a right to know the difference between boy (male) and girl (female).
02-10-2024
Kate Scott []
CON
I oppose this bill. There is no one this bill will help, only people it will hurt. It will hurt our transgender friends and family by creating obstacles for them to freely live their lives, it is an unnecessary burden to place on the government officials who will have to enact these additional hoops, and it takes up valuable legislative time that could be used to work on the issues that will actually improve the lives of Iowans. This is an intrusive overreach of government and not at all the way that Iowans want to be governed. I am concerned about the damage that will be caused by this bill and concerned about what it means for future decisions by this administration. What other ways will this administration dictate how Iowans live their lives?
02-10-2024
Heather Wachendorf [New Beginnings Christian Church]
CON
This bill is irrelevant to Iowa's future it is bigoted and backward. Please tell me how gender and gender identity matter when it comes to basic needs. This bill is harmful in the extreme to those creative and wonderful individuals who live authentically. All trans individuals want is the ability to live with the same rights as everyone else to love and be happy, to THRIVE and be productive members of their communities. This law does nothing to make Iowa a better place to live.
02-10-2024
Samantha Henry [Other]
CON
The bill fails to accurately and scientifically distinguish sex, it only lists 1 of 3 characteristics thats used in the scientific community to determine biological sex.The bill fails to acknowledge and distinguish a difference between biological sex and societal gender constructs/identifiers.This wording in this bill is a mess and should NOT be passed, regardless of party or stance on its intended position. If passed as is, many Iowans will be harmed and the fallout will create complex legislative burdens as well as extensive taxpayer burdens at the local, county, and state levels of government. Enforced labeling of a minority group is in line with historic events such as Nazi Germany in the 1930s and WWII. Before Jewish people were targeted, the Nazi party first targeted LGBT and other minority groups for extermination. Additionally Nazi Germany took the idea of harming and segregation of a minority from Jim Crow laws which arose from the Confederacy losing in the U.S. Civil War. For Iowa which was part of the Union to have its leaders encourage legislative actions in league with Confederate beliefs is unAmerican and is blasphemy to Iowa's history as a state.
02-10-2024
Mary McDonald [Individual]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill and urge all considering it to ask yourself who is helped and most importantly who is harmed by this bill. How much should the government know about an individual and control what how that individual moves through the world? What is the public interest served by invading the privacy of citizens and burdening individuals with more government control? This bill does not protect anyone. It does not serve the public. When government begins to define categories of people is when government begins to limit the rights of certain categories of people. Please ask yourself what governmental purpose is worth that risk. To govern is to trade rights for securities. Whose rights are being traded here for whose securities?
02-10-2024
Laura Carlson [Citizen]
PRO
I am glad this bill is being debated. I hope it will pass. The current climate is toxic and full of inaccurate information. Male and female is how we are born. If an adult chooses to modify their body or desire to be labeled other than biological sex, the birth certificate remains the one legal definition of who one is male or female genetically. Protection of each sex is the duty of our government and this bill provides a clear answer to help provide that. A men's locker room is for males. A woman's is for females.
02-10-2024
ERIN ELGIN [Iowa Resident]
CON
This proposed bill does not solve any problems, but creates plenty. Iowa should be a place of inclusion and acceptance. Focusing on narrow definitions of gender will not help us progress as a state and address the challenges of a changing climate and an uncertain future.
02-10-2024
Nicole Taylor []
CON
I urge you to vote no on this discriminatory and hateful bill. Gender is more than the sex assigned at birth and this bill puts trans Iowans at risk. Forcing people to define gender so rigidly is moving Iowa backwards, as many other states are creating more welcoming policies for LGBTQ people. This bill is bad for business as people will be less likely to move to Iowa and current residents will leave the state.
02-10-2024
The Rev. Cn. Meg Wagner []
CON
I am a priest serving in the Episcopal Church, and my faith compels me to voice my opposition to all legislation that seeks to deny the Godgiven dignity, the legal equality, and the civil rights of transgender and nonbinary people. The Episcopal Church celebrates the diversity of human experience, including the diverse spectrum of gender identity that God has created. This bill is direct attempt to deny that beautiful reality. As Americans, we believe in civil and human equality, as one of the foundational ideals of our country. We know from our history that separate but equal is never really equal, it is always discriminatory, and no one deserves to experience discrimination. Equality under the law should be a priority in Iowa, if we ever hope to live up to our motto that Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. And yet this bill seeks to stigmatize and separate a whole class of people because they do not fit neatly into the artificial binary boxes that the Governor and others are seeking to create. This bill puts transgender and nonbinary people in real danger by requiring them to be housed and use facilities that do not align with their gender identity and will further contribute to the pattern of violence against them. And the Iowans I know can never support that. I urge you not to support this bill.
02-10-2024
LaVonne Sternhagen []
CON
Are you trying to go back many years to segregation and discrimination? These are humans and citizens of Iowa. Are you taking their right to live in a free world? Use your heads and don't go backwards!
02-10-2024
Jason Arnold []
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to HSB 649, a bill that seeks to narrowly define gender and restrict the ability of transgender individuals to accurately reflect their true gender identity on drivers licenses and other government documents. This legislation not only undermines the dignity and rights of transgender people but also contradicts the values of equality and freedom that define our state and nation. Importantly, it also exacerbates Iowas ongoing worker shortage by potentially deterring a vital segment of the workforce.The ability to have identification documents that reflect ones true gender identity is critical for the mental health, social integration, and personal safety of transgender individuals. Denying this recognition directly harms their wellbeing and signals to the broader LGBTQ+ communityand indeed to all potential residentsthat Iowa is not a welcoming or inclusive state. This message is particularly concerning at a time when Iowa is facing significant workforce shortages across key sectors.Our states economy relies on the talents and contributions of a diverse workforce, including individuals from the LGBTQ+ community. Legislation like HSB 649 not only harms the individuals directly impacted but also sends a chilling message to prospective residents and workers who value inclusivity and respect for all people. This could deter skilled workers from relocating to Iowa, further compounding our workforce challenges.Additionally, this bill is out of step with the medical and psychological consensus on gender identity and poses unnecessary challenges and risks in daily interactions, from law enforcement encounters to routine transactions requiring identification. It undermines trust and cohesion within our communities and erodes the principles of equality and respect that are foundational to our society.At a time when Iowa should be focusing on policies that attract and retain a skilled and diverse workforce, HSB 649 moves us in the opposite direction. It undermines efforts to address our labor shortages and negatively impacts the states economic growth and competitiveness.I urge you to consider the wideranging negative implications of HSB 649, not only on the rights and wellbeing of transgender Iowans but also on the economic health of our state. I implore you to oppose this legislation and instead support policies that affirm the dignity of all Iowans and foster a more inclusive, welcoming, and economically vibrant state.
02-10-2024
E Cram [resident ]
CON
There is nothing "common sense" about definitions of sex. This is whyin order to expand women's participation in the legal and public spherelegal definitions of sex have become MORE inclusive. Take for example the legal history of Title IX, which made women's education possible, which makes things like women's basketball possible. Title IX is one of many federal mechanisms that defined sex discrimination as "the basis of sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, pregnancy or related condition, sexual orientation and gender identity." This law would codify a definition of sex that relies on sex stereotyping. There is no war between women and trans people, beyond the manufactured scapegoating of a minority population and coordinated national campaign to produce copy cat bills such as this. Women and trans people share in common a struggle to confront oppressive realities of gender that would prohibit their participation in public life. This bill is not common sense, not good for Iowans, a waste of taxpayer dollars and a deeply authoritarian ploy.
02-10-2024
Phillip Schmidt [None]
CON
If our governor was sincere she would be supporting passage of the ERA Amendment. This proposed bill by our Governor is a bill based on marginalization and hate.This bill is a call to bigotry and support for a theocratic government. She is appealing to the most dangerous elements of our state and putting a marginalized minority in danger.We don't have to act like Idiots OutWondering Around Just because our governor and her party does.
02-10-2024
Donovan (Dee) Bosold []
CON
This bill is designed to do two things:1. Define legal terms in a manner that clearly and intentionally excludes parents and trans people from legal protection under Iowa law.2. Force transgender Iowans to disclose medical data that should be kept private unless provided willingly.This bill must be prevented from becoming law, and similar legislation must also be voted down.
02-10-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
I'm not aware that Governor Reynolds has any medical training, and her proposal to define men and women presents an opportunity for enlightenment. Differences between males and females extends far beyond their apparent genitalia. The Governor and Legislators who fail to recognize and considier this are not doing their due diligence.
02-10-2024
Myke Selha []
CON
This bill will have no power over how these words are defined by medical professionals, mental health providers, sociologists and other academics, or pretty much any individual who needs to communicate across state lines. I have to wonder why there is such a strong need to narrowly define these terms. Medical professionals have known for decades that physical sex is much more complicated than just two boxes. This bill uses the reproductive system as the sole measurement. Are you sure you want your children to be reduced to nothing more than whether they can produce sperm or an egg? That feels very dehumanizing.What is the category for someone who is infertile? What do you call a person who has had a hysterectomy? Their system can not produce an egg. Therefore, not a woman. Please do not support this bill. Let people be seen as more than just breeding stock.
02-10-2024
Jordan Selha []
CON
The danger of defining men and women solely based on their biological reproductive ability is immense. Sex and gender are both concepts that we have constructed. Different societies have constructed them differently. Some gender diverse individuals are revered in societies around the globe and throughout time. For you to support this legislation makes it clear that only those who are assigned male at birth and then act according to the gender they are expected to behave as (men) are valued. Only babies assigned female at birth who grow up to fulfill her duties as a woman in society are valued. Babies who are assigned neither male nor female, but as intersex, and babies whose gender identities or roles they play in society cross over the socially constructed norms and expectations are treated as second class citizens by this legislation. It is important to note that, despite what this bill would suggest, the sex assignment usually made at birth is not based on the biological ability to produce ova or to fertilizerather, sex is assigned based on a quick glance to determine if a penis is present or not. And hopefully by now we know that having a penis or absence of one does not dictate who we are, how we should be required to behave, and what value we contribute to society. Biological essentialism is reductive, dangerous, and harmful to anyone who does not prescribe exactly to the gender binary construct. Any woman serving in the legislature is an example of how our ideas around gender change through time. Women challenged what it meant to be a woman in society and thank goodness for this because we have benefitted greatly from their contributions in the workforce, in leadership, institutions, and families. Historically, peoplelegislators included rejected new roles and definitions of what it meant to be a woman. But thankfully progress won and women serve as representatives, senators, and even governors. Voting for HF2389 will locate you on the wrong side of history. Being on the wrong side of progress will follow you, your children, and their children. They will look back and wonder why you were attempting to prevent people who have genders that do not match your current understanding from accessing correct documentation. Why you placed people you have very little knowledge of in harms way by requiring them to carry identification that reduces them to a label a physician placed upon them when they were born even when that physician got it wrong. Why you are passing legislation to address a problem that never existed. Transgender people are not a physical threat. We are only a threat to narrow definitions of gender and to those who would attempt to limit progress, civil rights, and the expansion of binary restrictions on how people are allowed to be.
02-10-2024
Tom Wilcox [Forward Freedom]
CON
This bill is absolutely ridiculous. I am tired of seeing bill like this getting presented while it exempts and secluded Iowans from the LGBTQ+ community. Bills like this spread hate and fear. I dont understand why people cannot live their lives the way they want to. No one from the LGBTQ+ community is a threat to our state, National security or the Sovereignty of our country as a whole. All Iowans should be able to live freely in our state without feeling threatened, hated or cast out. Our state represents all walks of life. This is a blatant violation of the LGBTQ+ communitys civil rights. Your liberty ends where someone elses begins. Iowa is not a Christians only state. Stop the hate. Stop the bigotry.
02-10-2024
Harisu Lee Kyung-eun []
PRO
People cannot pick sex. People will pick new ethnic or new name. You are born who you are and cannot pick change. It is wrong and should be punished if people deceive! To many male looking woman, should only look like woman and man like man. How will police know who does crime if unknown and has short hair wearing plain shirt and denim?? People cannot pick new eye color or hair, how can pick new sex? There should be dress code like home of Korea. Then people can marry right to have many children. If you marry wrong sex then you wont have children and we need more children in US. Other country have more population, who will be army? Who will take care of elders?
02-10-2024
Sandra R Robbins [Sandra Robbins]
CON
This bill ignored numerous metal conditions that are not identified at birth including hormonal variations that occurring post puberty.
02-10-2024
Kelly []
CON
I am opposed to this hateful legislation. Our government needs to focus on the things that matter: clean water, FUNDING public schools, repealing the harmful vouchers, abortion rights, and making Iowa equal and fair for all. Instead, they are focused on erasing the LGBTQ+ and Transgender communities from our state. Hate should not be made law and rights should not be taken away because our governor wants a straight, white, Christian state. Our state is diverse and secular, and that's how it should be. Please do NOT allow hate to become law in Iowa. Misgendering and deadnaming Transgender people harms their mental health. Suicide rates will increase and the brain drain will continue. Until we make Iowa nice again, we have to fight the hateful legislation attempting to be passed in the Iowa Legislature. Again, I am OPPOSED to any hateful legislation. Our LGBTQ+ and Transgender Iowans deserve to be loved, accepted, and have equal rights afforded to them. LOVE IS LOVE. Trans Rights are Human Rights!
02-10-2024
Claire Moore []
CON
This bill is not only hateful towards trans people but also a complete waste of time. No one will actually see a dramatic increase in their quality of life due to the further marginalization of trans people. However, we could see a dramatic increase in the quality of life for Iowans if the legislatures time was spent on improving infrastructure, maintaining water and power systems, and caring for the children of Iowa. Providing hungry children with meals over the summer will improve the lives of Iowa youth far more than forcing trans people to be publicly noted as such on their documentation. Please stop wasting the time and taxpayer dollars of your citizens on these culture war bills and focus instead on tangibly improving Iowa.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I moved to Iowa for work, and this bill is one of the reasons I count down the days until I can escape. I am the sort of person you want living in Iowa: I'm college educated but moderate, a hard working taxpayer, active in my religious community, and an advocate for rural areas and ag. I also have a conscience and a keen morality. I know the difference between right and wrong, and this bill is wrong: it aggressively seeks to expose transgender Iowans to bigotry and discrimination, violates US legal precedent set in Brown v. Board of Education (separate does not make equal), and pursues a discriminatory campaign of hate against an already marginalized community for no legitimate reason. Although I'm unsure of your capability for basic human empathy, consider for a moment how you might feel if one of the most personal and wrenching decisions or journeys of your life was involuntarily made public in a way that would almost certainly lead to public scorn and physically endanger you through no fault of your own. Really consider it, feel it. Now look someone else in the eyes, and ask yourself how you can live with yourself if you inflict such deep pain upon them. I pray that you find yourself unable to live with such pain: you are elected to work for the public good, which necessitates compassion.As legislators, you have a duty to respond to the actual needs of your constituents, not to the whims of national cabals and urban myths. You should be ashamed of yourselves for wasting taxpayer dollars and legislature time on an issue that is none of your business, regardless of what your Facebook may tell you. Besides your own wicked perversions and intrusive desires, why should it be the prerogative of the state to expose private medical information in irrelevant contexts without adequate evidence? It is not: shame on you.I urge you to remember decency toward your neighbor, and act upon that decency by voting no on this bill.
02-11-2024
Catherine Mathilde Baldwin [none]
CON
This bill dehumanizes every individual on the basis of an arbitrary designation of gender based on outdated and disproven science. It is amoral and inhuman. It denies the vast spectrum of diversity created and originated by the living God, and it reduces our legal acknowledgement of His divine design to the limits of our small human understanding. We are not the authors and originators of our species, that is the domain of the divine trinity. To declare these limitations is to deny the ability of the divine Trinity to create Their own definitions. I do not believe that the state of Iowa has more power than the god of Abraham, the god of Isaac, and the god of Jacob to define a person's personhood. If Kim Reynolds believes that she is of more authority than Jesus Christ, then she shall earn her own punishment. I shall not participate in her heresy nor support her hateful demands. We are all answerable to the Divine, and I will answer on the side of LOVE THY NEIGHBOR.
02-11-2024
Elizabeth Carrell []
CON
I just cant believe the time, resources, and taxpayer money that is being wasted on something as ridiculous as this. No, actually, I totally believe it. Because this is what Iowa politicians do now. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa GOP just keep parroting all this fear mongering, culture war nonsense. Lets be very clear: this is just another copy + paste bill being pushed by some conservative think tank consisting of a bunch of wealthy televangelist types that have probably never even step foot in Iowa. I know that these Iowa Republicans are just trying to show off how well they can follow directions in hopes of going into bigger and better things, thus raising their profile and gaining the attention of the RNCand honestly, I think thats even worse. No convictions. Im not trans or nonbinary. Im not queer. Im just a cisgender, heterosexual woman and a lifelong Iowan who wants people to respect the whole separation of church and state thing.
02-11-2024
Justin Curran []
CON
It is truly unbelievable that this has to be discussed. Put aside that I believe, this is a pointless bill only pushed forward to gin up support and stir up bigotry in the voter base of the governor. This is a desperate attempt to hold on to power at the expense of the health and life of a marginalized group. Seriously, after such stunts and legislation hate crimes and violence against marginalized groups spike. I'm ashamed to be from Iowa. I know this statement won't change a thing, just a reminder that I have to wait til the older generation passes and we can begin to clean up the mess they left behind.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill, if passed, creates an unsafe environment transgender people in the state of Iowa. Do not pass this
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I would like the other side who bring up womens sports and protecting womens spaces to consider who has put this bill forward: people who want to force girls and women, no matter the circumstances or the stage of pregnancy, to have children; who want to restrict womens access to birth control; who are against feeding hungry children; who want to rid the state of agencies working to protect our environmentour water and our air from toxic chemicals and the excesses of agribusiness; who seem perfectly at peace with the rising cancer rate this toxicity causes; who want to restrict our access to libraries and books and knowledge of American history; who would like to do away with the legalization of gay marriage; and who want to restrict or end all diversity, equity and inclusion programs that have historically helped women and people from economically and racially marginalized communities. Sports Associations are making rules to address some of the issues youre worried about regarding womens sports. As for the issue of transwomen using womens bathrooms and locker rooms, why not seek solutions that respect and protect all parties? Why not be compassionate rather than so harshly punitive? The law that you are advocating is meant to inflict harm on our trans and nonbinary communities Is that what you want? I pretty sure that the people who came up with this law want, but do you? Finally, why do you want to support a bill that uses reproductive capacity as the basis of defining what a woman is? Dont you not see how dangerous this is to the very women and girls you say you are trying to protect?
02-11-2024
Leslie carpenter []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. It is discriminatory and unnecessary and in no way furthers a legitimate interest of the state.
02-11-2024
Kalen Stefanick []
CON
This bill is extremely harmful for trans Iowans. Trans people should be treated the same as cisgender people under Iowa law, and this bill would enforce the longdisproven "separate but equal" treatment, essentially rendering transgender people as secondclass citizens. There is no credible evidence to prove that this kind of policy is necessary or effective; in fact, the evidence shows quite the opposite. There is no reason to legislate hate and discrimination against ANY minority group. A law like this would be unnecessarily cruel, not to mention disgraceful and a disservice to the constituents that you were elected to represent. I STRONGLY oppose this legislation and encourage you to vote no on this disgusting bill. You should be ashamed of yourselves for even considering this legislation, wasting time and taxpayer dollars on something that nobody in this state has asked for.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to vehemently oppose House File 2389. This bill, if enacted, would not only strip away the rights and dignity of LGBTQ individuals but would also tarnish Iowa's reputation as a state that values equality and inclusion.House File 2389's blatant disregard for the lived experiences of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals is appalling. By rigidly defining gender based solely on biological characteristics assigned at birth, the bill effectively erases the existence of countless individuals whose identities do not conform to outdated and binary notions of sex.Furthermore, the assertion in the bill that "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal" is not only morally reprehensible but also legally indefensible. This language echoes the dark era of segregation and sends a chilling message that discrimination and exclusion are acceptable practices in our state. It is unconscionable to subject transgender and nonbinary individuals to further marginalization and violence by denying them access to essential public spaces and services.House File 2389's failure to recognize the rights and needs of intersex individuals is equally egregious. By relegating intersex individuals to the margins of society and denying them the legal recognition and protections they deserve, the bill perpetuates harmful stereotypes and denies their inherent humanity.As a staunch advocate for LGBTQ rights and equality, I stand in solidarity with organizations like One Iowa and the ACLU in denouncing House File 2389 as nothing short of an assault on human rights. This bill not only tramples on the dignity and autonomy of LGBTQ individuals but also undermines the very fabric of our democracy by condoning discrimination and exclusion.Moreover, the implications of House File 2389 extend beyond the LGBTQ community, posing significant risks to privacy, autonomy, and freedom for all Iowans. By mandating the disclosure of personal medical information on official documents and perpetuating harmful stereotypes about gender and family structures, the bill sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the fundamental rights of every citizen.In conclusion, I urge you to reject House File 2389 and any similar legislation that seeks to roll back the progress we have made toward a more just and inclusive society. It is imperative that we uphold the values of equality, dignity, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or expression.Thank you for considering my impassioned plea. I trust that you will stand on the right side of history and oppose this harmful and discriminatory bill.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Support ALL humans and vote No on this bill.
02-11-2024
David Judisch [Good Shepherd Lutheran Decorah]
CON
I am against HF 2389. This bill is overly discriminatory, will create unnecessary problems for samesex parents,and will create unnecessary issues for all of us.
02-11-2024
Sam Moon [Individual]
CON
The very essence of this bill is openly trying to erase the existance of LGBT Iowans. It's completely unnecessary and only proposed in response to the amount of LGBT citizens in Iowa who are simply asking for respect, comfort, and medical care just as everyone else. My gender is legally male and I'm not changing it because conservative legislators want to find a way to discriminate against me and my transgender and gay friends and family. We Iowans reject this irrational discriminative bill proposed to restrict and make the lives of LGBT Iowans harder for no reason. You do not need to find reasons to hate and instead, those who proposed this bill should ask themselves why they hate their neighbors and community members for doing absolutely nothing but living their lives happily.
02-11-2024
Joshua Ratel-Khan [None]
CON
I am a constituent residing in Winneshiek county, writing to urge members to vote NO on HF 2389. As a concerned citizen of Iowa, deeply committed to the principles that our great state stands for "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" I respectfully urge you to oppose House File 2389 as it presents concerns regarding individual liberties, privacy rights, and the potential for unprecedented government overreach. Notably, its implications for samesex parents, transgender Iowans, and the state's eligibility for federal domestic violence prevention funds raise serious questions about its alignment with our shared values of fairness and privacy.Iowa has long been a state that values family, regardless of its makeup. By creating barriers for samesex parents, HB 2389 undermines the rights of families to secure their bonds legally and socially, a fundamental liberty we hold dear.The requirement for transgender Iowans to disclose their gender identity on driver's licenses is not just a privacy concern but also poses safety risks. This provision directly contradicts Iowa's commitment to protecting individual rights and maintaining the privacy of its citizens.At risk is not only our moral standing but also critical federal funding that supports our efforts to combat domestic violence. Ensuring the safety and support of domestic violence survivors should be paramount, reflecting our collective commitment to protect the vulnerable.The notion of "separate but equal" has a troubling history and has been unequivocally rejected by both legal and moral standards. Its inclusion in any form within Iowa legislation is not only regressive but also at odds with our state's ethos of fairness and equality.By opposing this bill, we affirm our dedication to the liberties and rights that define us as Iowans. Let us continue to be a beacon of fairness, respect, and dignity for all individuals, maintaining the principles that our state motto so proudly proclaims.Thank you for considering my request. I am hopeful that you will listen to the concerns of your constituents and act in the best interest of all Iowans.
02-11-2024
Marion Pruitt-Jefferson []
CON
The bill under consideration is harmful to Trans Iowans and should be defeated. I am the grandmother of a transgender grandson and my heart aches for the ways in which this bill will cause both personal and systemic harm to an already vulnerable population. Please do not low this harmful and discriminatory bill to become law.
02-11-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
I am a transgender Iowan and am exhausted by the constant attacks on my community. I moved here from Indiana, a state that many of my peers have left because of discriminatory legislation, and I see the same thing happening in Iowa. So many of my peers have left this state because they did not feel wanted or welcome, and their talents and contributions left with them. As someone who is contributing to this great state, I don't understand why my government continues to attack the transgender community, especially when it goes against our own state motto: "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain." Why am I not allowed to maintain my liberties and rights, just because I am transgender? My identity is not even something I think about every day, so why are you so obsessed with it? It makes no sense to force transgender people to disclose that they are transgender on their birth certificates. This has no benefits, other than allowing and encouraging discrimination at a time when transgender folks are already an attacked marginalized group. If this was truly for the benefit of health, then blood type would be a more relevant inclusion on public document, not what genitals someone has. I hope you hear the public outcry and take your constituents needs into consideration. I have heavily debated leaving this state, despite how much I enjoy it here. Please vote "No" and allow me to live my life as a citizen of Iowa without fear of discrimination and injustice.
02-11-2024
Cynthia Yockey []
CON
I am a conservative lesbian. I will explain why the different ways people become transgender due to a masturbationandporninduced mental illness called autogynephilia, or as a sexual strategy, demonstrate why Iowa law must ban the ability to change one's name and sex on their birth certificate, not allow it as this bill does. Surgery to realize a sexual fantasy cannot be allowed to destroy rights based on sex and sexual orientation that are immutable characteristics based on physical realities. Women have no idea what it means to "feel like a woman" because we ARE women. Men who claim to "feel like a woman" are either pornaddled autogynephiles or gay men who adopt a female appearance because they prefer straight males. Sex is binary, male or female, and it destroys sexbased rights to allow anyone to change their sex on their birth certificate or any governmentissued ID regardless of their appearance, feelings, or surgery. Allowing any ability to change one's name and sex on a birth certificate will validate transgender activists who seek to brainwash, castrate, and sexually mutilate children to support their false claim that being transgender is an immutable characteristic and they were "born that way." Protect the children and rights based in the physical realities of sex and sexual orientation and amend this bill to include only its definition of the sex binary.
Attachment
02-11-2024
Rick Phillips [Protect My Innocence]
PRO
As HF2389 ramps up to its public hearing, all those against this commonsense and necessary legislation reminds me of the Hitler Youth making a last stand in Berlin to save the flawed vision of the Third Reich. All those young, deceived minds believed the lie of the Fuhrer of a super race just like the deceived youth in Iowa have been deceived to believe they can selfdetermine their identity against nature and natures God. The lie has imagined dozens of fluid gender identities that change daily and have drawn many a young mind into a cult of dysphoria. The lie is leading the young to a violent destroyed life emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. The young need to be liberated from the ministers of evil who instigate the cult of gender dysphoria. It will be painful as they feel rejected and lost. You can see the fear and hopelessness of their fight. It is a struggle that is in vain to go against the Creator of the universe. Vanity and pride go before the inevitable end of truth. But the truth is what will set the deceived LGBTQ community free. That is true love. We must pass HF2389 to save the next generation even though a few will be lost. The truth is there are only two biological genders of male and female that have distinct physical and emotional features that are protected by the Constitution. That truth is not what causes harm to the deceived youth and adult cult leaders. It is the lie they can choose a false identity that is harming them and leading to emotional death. Now we must help the deceived youth to wire the right mind to the right biological gender, not perpetuate the lie. Gov. Reynolds has taken the initiative as a leader to contain and correct the damage caused to Iowa youth and combat the cult of gender dysphoria. The governors courageous leadership is a great first step to identifying the problem by defining what is true. Lets see now which of the legislators will stand with the governor, the truth, and protect innocent children. Lets keep the discussion going until the lie is exposed and the truth prevails.
02-11-2024
Brad Worthington []
PRO
It is important to maintain male and female distinctions because there is a big difference between men and women. It does not matter if someone is confused about their identity or not. each person is still the sex they were born as. If we allow a small percentage of confused people to dictate the rules for the rest of us, we will be allowing our society to crumble. Biological men should not be allowed to compete against women no matter who they feel that day. We should not subject our women and girls to always wondering if there is a biological man in the restroom or locker room they use. While this bill does not directly address these problems it does make positive movement toward stopping the progression of these problems. I would urge you not to give in to the vocal few that are confused about themselves and want the rest of us to affirm their confusion. Thank you
02-11-2024
Kyzen Ekstrom []
CON
I was born and raised in Iowa. I have lived here all 26 years of my life. I am nonbinary. All of these facts mean that I, as a citizen of this state, am one of the people targeted by this bill. I didnt come out publicly until I was an adult. I couldnt afford to transition until recently because the only place for me to do so was too far away for me to travel on a regular basis. I felt hopeless and wanted to give up, to stop existing. I struggled with suicidal ideation because the obstacles to be my true self seemed impossibly high. To access hormone therapy I had to be able to go to the university of Iowa hospital, a three hour drive from where I lived at the time. The wait list for any appointment through them is months long, and once I got my appointment I had to speak to a therapist to prove I was competent enough to take hormones. This isnt required for any other medical procedure Ive ever had in my life. After a year of hormones I was finally allowed to be seen to consider a hystorectomy. Despite having spent years in the closet for my own safety as a teen, I had to wait to have a surgery because the law required it. Again, this is not necessary for any other procedure I, a legal adult, could seek. Once I consulted an obgyn for the procedure I needed not one, but TWO letters of approval from therapists to prove I was valid enough to have a hystorectomy, one of which took three months to feel comfortable enough to write that letter. This was the fastest one shed written to date purely because I was already knowledgeable and assured of my desire for this surgery to match my identity. I say all of that to give you the context of what it is like to be a trans person in Iowa. Despite being an adult living independently and secure in my identity, the law inhibits my ability to make decisions on my own health. I had to wait years to pursue my transition because of the legal hurdles and lack of access to appropriate healthcare. All of this, and I havent yet begun my legal transition. To change my birth certificate I have to petition the court and provide documentation that Ive pursued gender affirming care. The university of Iowa hospitals have an entire booklet on how to change your gender marker and name because its such an arduous process. On top of that, being nonbinary means I want my marker to be an x, not m or f. I struggled with what to do about my legal gender designation until I saw the story of Wynn Greelee, a fifteen year old from Cedar Rapids who changed his marker to x in 2020. Only four years ago did I realize I could have a marker that fit who I was. All of that is to say, this is only a condensed story of my struggle and suffering as a trans individual in Iowa. I have worked within the confines of the law to make who I appear as on the outside match who I have always been inside. I deliberated and researched for years to solidify what my path would be before I could even take action, and now this bill seeks to spit in my face before Im even able to amend my birth certificate. There is no need for anyone who would view my legal documents to know the sex I was assigned at birth. My sex and gender are something I should be able to disclose as necessary. Every time I have to use the bathroom Im faced with a decision. Every time I got in line at the Salvation Army, I had to make a decision. When I had to help a homeless friend find shelter, she had to make a decision. Only through the kindness of the YWCA was she able to have a roof over her head when she desperately needed it. She could have been turned away for being trans. Thats what this bill does. It actively harms people who are in desperate need of help, and its a gut punch to every trans person who has fought for the ability to be themselves. Im ashamed to be an Iowan as of late. The barrage of discriminatory bills like this one prove every condescending coastal elite right; the Midwest is just a flyover state full of bigots. But it doesnt have to be true. I believe in a better future for my home state. I believe we can make a positive change and make it easier for trans people to access care. I believe we can pass legislation to protect trans rights and reject bills like this that only cause harm. Thank you for the ability to voice my grievances, and I hope you make the right choice on this bill and all others that threaten the rights of Iowan citizens.
02-11-2024
Court Brink []
CON
Please VOTE NO to HF2389. This bill is completely unnecessary and has been developed solely to enable discrimination. This bill will create problems for samesex parents, jeopardize federal funding for domestic violence shelters, and enshrine "separate but equal" into Iowa law. This bill is embarrassing for the state of Iowa. It is bills such as this that are driving young Iowans and their families out of the state.
02-11-2024
Xandra Escalada [none]
CON
I strongly oppose HF2389: a person wishing to update their sex on their birth certificate will be 'outed' in any capacity which requires them to share said document as, per this act, it will now indicate both their current sex and their assigned sex at birth. This may strongly discourage someone from going through the process of obtaining a new birth certificate in the first place (i.e. the document will out them, update or not) despite surgeries, medication, and/or other gender affirming procedures or care they may have received. In essence, this bill legalizes the outing of trans individuals on birth certificates, placing an unfair target on a group of people who already experience severe violence, harassment, and discrimination as a whole in society. Additionally, in codifying its definitions of "female" and "male" as a person whose "reproductive system is developed to produced ova" and a person whose "reproductive system is developed to fertilize the ova," respectively, this bill has harmful implications regarding the exclusion of intersex women and men, along with any person who's undergone an oophorectomy, orchiectomy, or certain types of hysterectomies, from having legal female / male sex designations. Lastly, this bill falsely maintains the importance of separate accommodations and facilities on the basis of sex, as if sex was the sole, or even a relevant, factor in determining the health, safety, and privacy of individuals utilizing a particular locker room, restroom, crisis center, or detention facility. How health, safety, and privacy are even defined, precisely, is not clear within the context of this bill, and it fails to consider how potentially distressing, unsafe, and invasive it is for a person to be required to use a particular accommodation or facility solely because of their sex (when they would prefer to use a different one). In other words, this bill does not articulate why separate accommodations and facilities on the basis of sex, alone, are necessary or important, and codifies a dangerous and unconstitutional statement, per the US Supreme Courts Brown vs. Board decision of 1954, in asserting that separate accommodations are not inherently unequal.
02-11-2024
Sarah Fleming [Individual ]
CON
As a licensed and practicing Iowa social worker, I am extremely concerned about discrimination of LGBT Iowans, as well as the threat to domestic violence funding. Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.
02-11-2024
Elizabeth Ahrens []
CON
This bill is highly discriminatory. It singles out and attacks transgender people. I urge you to oppose this bill
02-11-2024
PATRICIA CALE-FINNEGAN []
CON
No Iowan should be treated as a second class citizen. Transgender Iowans are just trying to live their lives peacefully and without fear.
02-11-2024
David Hampe [Iowa Tax Payer]
PRO
It saddens me that we have come to a point in our society where we have to have a bill that defines what a woman is and what a man is. How lost we truly have become. To keep us from continuing to go down the road of insanity and for the protection of our girls and women please pass this common sense bill.
02-11-2024
Colleen Decker []
PRO
As a woman, I do not appreciate the possibility of being in a confined space with any man other than my husband. I do not appreciate the vulnerability that is put on ladies by allowing biological men to come and go from areas which should be reserved for ladies, where God fearing men will not enter.
02-11-2024
Travis Decker []
PRO
It is sad that we live in a society where these terms that have carried the same definition for 6000 years have to be once again defined, nevertheless that is the state of our society. I am for this bill that stands for truth, and true biological definitions that are supported by science.
02-11-2024
Dixie Decker []
PRO
I am strongly in favor of returning to biological common sense definitions based on truth.
02-11-2024
Matthew Wasson []
PRO
Unfortunately we need to define these words once again. I am for this common sense bill.
02-11-2024
Ren Mattson []
CON
I urge you to vote NO to HF 2389.I am a nonbinary person who has lived in Iowa their entire life. I love my community; I love my home. I want to keep living in Iowa, but I continue to grow more and more concerned for the safety and wellbeing of both myself and the other trans individuals in our state with the continued attacks made against us in the form of these bills.The only purpose this bill serves is to write transgender Iowans out of the law. This bill does nothing to protect women; it is discriminatory, immoral, and horrifying to witness as a young, trans Iowan myself. It is already hard enough for trans individuals to exist in this world. I ask that you lighten the load by ceasing to introduce these unnecessary bills when there are so many more important and necessary things that we could be spending our efforts on to better our state that don't have to do with how I identify as a human being.I urge you to vote NO to HF 2389.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill targets transgender people in Iowa who deserve to feel safe and protected.
02-11-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
There is no reason for this bill to be passed, it accomplishes nothing for the public good. It continues the stigmatization and the oppression of an already extremely vulnerable group.
02-11-2024
Jane Robinette []
CON
Defining sex and gender terms nonscientifically and restrictively serves only to erase the existence of people who are already under attack in Iowa. It's hard to understand why the governor, with the support of her party, thinks it's a good idea to boldly promote "separate but equal" in 2024. Not only is this bill harmful to the people targeted, but will also further damage Iowa's reputation in the country (if that's possible) with companies looking to hire and invest, potential new residents, and more. Discrimination is never a good look, especially when it's done by the state. Stop HF 2389!
02-11-2024
Holly [Moore]
CON
Im extremely disappointed with this proposed legislation. It is meanspirited and explicitly unconstitutional (separate but equal was struck down by Brown vs. Board of Education). No wonder so many young, talented Iowans are fleeing and taking their tax dollars with them. Who would want to live in a state thats willing to take away the rights of so many of its constituents? If you allow this for trans Iowans, whos next? This is big government at its worstinterfering with someones right to basic privacy of information that is utterly irrelevant to the safety of others. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain needs to apply to everyone, not just certain people.
02-11-2024
Karrecia Crawley []
CON
Start worrying about children eating over the summer and not peoples genitals.
02-11-2024
Emily johnson
CON
This bill does nothing but encourages segregation, dehumanization, and promotes the dialog that the Queer community is violent. I am a trans child of a representative who supports this bill, she lost her relationship with me over these beliefs. Hear the voices of those begging you to choose the right side of history.
02-11-2024
Kalean Schrock []
PRO
I am extremely supportive of this bill! It is important that we stop the confusion, make definitions clear, and keep our children safe by sticking to identities the way God created them to be!
02-11-2024
Judy Russell []
CON
This bill is not needed. It has no purpose other than spreading divisiveness in our state. VOTE NO!! Science will tell you that we have always had more than two genders. People making these decisions MUST seek professional advice and not listen to the Family Leader organization and those who have nothing at stake in this bill. People making these decisions MUST ALSO listen to the Iowans who will suffer from misguided laws. The transgender community MUST have equal rights per our constitution. They are US. They are IOWANS. They have family who love and support them. This highly unusual number of bills geared toward 2% of our population is an unhealthy use of taxpayer money and our legislator's time.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
My best friend is a transgender man (born female, transitioned to male). He's been on testosterone for about four and a half years. He has a deep voice, facial hair, broad shoulders and like many twenty something men, proudly wears cargo shorts in 30 degree weather. What I'm trying to convey is that he the farthest thing from even remotely feminine. This legislation would not only completely erase him from Iowa code, but also force him into spaces where he would be openly harassed or even assaulted. He's been an Iowan for over 20 years. He works here, he pays taxes, he shouldn't have to live in fear that his government will essentially rip away his right to just live his life and mind his own business like the rest of us. He's the kind of man who'd happily give your car a jumpstart on a subzero winter morning or surprise you with fast food when you're feeling down. He's just a normal, down to earth guy. His existence is not a crime.I also work at one of the largest high schools in Cedar Rapids. One of my students is essentially a STEM prodigy. Any university would be blessed to have her, and Iowa is in dire need of bright minds like hers. But with all of this antitrans rhetoric, all of the antiLGBTQ+ sentiment coming from our leaders, she wants nothing to do with Iowa anymore. Once she graduates, she's gone. She told me she doesn't feel safe in her own home state. How far have we fallen when a person says they don't feel safe in Iowa? It's shameful.Stop trying to turn trans and nonbinary people into your fear mongering boogeymen to distract from the real issues Iowans face. Our water quality is horrible, our bridges are crumbling, our minimum wage is stagnant. Enough of the bullying and copy paste legislation from other states. This bill, if passed, is going to get challenged in court and end up costing us. It's going to cost us, not just as taxpayers, but it's going to cost us in the long run with our young people as they flee our state because of bills like this. Enough is enough. Vote NO.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support this bill because it protects morality and common sense.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Thank you Governor Reynolds for putting out this good common sense bill.
02-11-2024
Hannah Wasson []
PRO
It is sad that our country has come to this point, but I fully support this bill. I'm thankful for a conservative governor.
02-11-2024
Jacob Tanksley []
PRO
It is sad that we have come to this point in America where we need a bill like this, but I 100% support this bill.
02-11-2024
Jill Miller [- Select -]
CON
Stop this divisive and unnecessary bill. Do your jobs. Help all Iowans. Fund our public schools. Support freedom of all religions. Fix our roads. Put the people of Iowa over autocratic political parties.
02-11-2024
Kevin Hendress []
PRO
Please support this bill that simply defines the objective reality of our two sexes, and will protect the vulnerability of women and children in private spaces and athletics. There are only two sexes, male and female. Sex is an immutable biological reality. Sex is determined by the presence of XX (female) or XY (male) chromosomes at conception.
02-11-2024
Cassie Belger []
PRO
I am supporting this bill. I agree with the defining of male as male and female as female. I agree with Bible principles. God made male and female.
02-11-2024
Judith Rose []
PRO
We need to get back to truth. This is God's truth. This bill is simply the way the living God started in the beginning, and is set forth by Him as truth.
02-11-2024
Steve and Carolyn Dehamer []
PRO
Our country was a lot less confused when people knew the definition of male and female, man and woman. I am for this bill which helps people to know these basic definitions.God made them male and female. Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he them: male and female created he them.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
In this age there is a lack of common sense. We need to restore what has been known for thousands of years.
02-11-2024
Timothy Wasson []
PRO
It is unfortunate that it is necessary to have a bill to clarify these things, but I feel it is necessary and I fully support it.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I agree with this proposed bill. I believe there are only two genders and science supports this. We need to have these words / terms defined to protect all peoples of Iowa
02-11-2024
Lori Bennet []
PRO
I am for this bill because there are only two given genders at birth. Just because society has accepted new gender roles does not make these exist. They should not be pushed on our children. Children's minds have not been fully developed in understanding and knowledge . Having such lies as multiple genders in their minds will cause twisted thing not based on truth.
02-11-2024
Alice Bennett []
PRO
I am happy to have a Governor stand for what is right and Biblical.
02-11-2024
Justus Batterson []
PRO
I agree with this bill because it is truth, and it has been truth since the beginning of time.
02-11-2024
Christian Schrock []
PRO
I fully support this common sense bill acknowledging God's definition of male and female.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a hate bill and targets a protected class. The majority of those for pro bring Jesus or god into it. There is no place for either when laws are concerned. We still have separation of church and state. You cannot force your religious views into my civil rights.
02-11-2024
David Paul Tanksley []
PRO
God made them male and female. There is no other designation by God. Why do we think we have a right to change it. Please vote for this bill.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I am for this bill as I believe there are only two genders. Male and Female. From Birth they are to be declared and not changed.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
It is sad we have to define these basic terms, but I am glad we have a Governor that cares enough to protect the people of Iowa from the agenda of the LGBTQ+
02-11-2024
Lou Anne Brown []
PRO
God created man and woman. Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve. Today society has the youth so confused they don't know who they are. Man is man and woman is woman. How they are born is what they are. No clothing or surgery will change their true being as God meant it to be. Please vote yes for this bill.
02-11-2024
Jennifer Tibbetts []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 2389 and urge you to vote NO!Having spent over 20 years advocating for women and girls in Iowa, I am appalled that this bill is being touted as a women's bill of rights when it is anything but that. This bill actually sets our state back decades when it comes to ensuring all Iowans are treated equitably. This bill contains unnecessary action and is a veiled attempt to push out the most marginalized Iowans.If this legislature actually wants to make substantial change listen to the experts, provide the necessary resources, and stop creating more barriers for Iowans to live their lives. Lastly, many concerns were raised in the subcommittee and committee meetings with the previous version of this bill and yet have gone unanswered. Continuing to move this bill forward without having a clear vision of who this bill is even trying to protect is careless. Shut this bill down and begin focusing on making productive change in Iowa.
02-11-2024
Andrew Boge [Citizen]
CON
I encourage all members of the legislator to vote NO against this bill. It is an explicit attack by the governor against trans people to ensure they do not have the same protections in the state of Iowa. It is a blatant move in the governors role in the culture wars to stir up her base and simply transphobic and xenophobic to its core. The arguments and reasoning behind the bill are meant to ensure trans Iowans and other queer people cannot fully access civic life. Resurrecting separate but equal doctrine is yet another attempt to ensure that trans, queer, nonbinary, and LGBTQ+ Iowans are not granted the same protections as cisgender Iowans. These attempts to legally codify definitions of man and woman serve no purpose for the government beyond attacking the rights of a particular group of Iowans the governor does not see as human or worthy of civil protections. Again, I urge this bill be killed and the legislators of Iowa spend more time actually investing in Iowa communities.
02-11-2024
Storm O'Brink [N/A]
CON
My name is Storm OBrink and I live in North Liberty, Iowa. Ive been an antiviolence activist specifically within trans communities for 15 years. I am concerned about the effect this legislation could have on victim service centers. The Violence Against Women Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity in victim service centers, such as domestic violence shelters. It requires that all victim service centers who receive VAWA funding, which is nearly every victim service center in the state of Iowa, provide accommodations on the basis of gender rather than assigned sex. Trans survivors experience domestic and sexual violence at extraordinarily high rates in comparison to cisgender people, and trans survivors experience unique hurdles in obtaining necessary services. While this legislation is not clear on giving a directive to discriminate against trans survivors or violate VAWA, the language starting on line 26 appears to be part of a setup to eventually do so. We see you, and we know what youre doing. Ive seen children go hungry in my district. Ive seen people go without shelter. You spent your time on fascist legislation instead.
02-11-2024
Larry Reid []
PRO
We need HF 2389 to codify into Iowa law what people have known and understood for millennia. This bill defines these key terms so that legislatively, medically and otherwise, business can be conducted equitably in Iowa.
02-11-2024
daniel Marx [Proletarian solutions.]
CON
How ridiculous can you get? Kim Reynolds is a fascist.
02-11-2024
Jim Walters []
CON
In Germany, in the 1930s, the Nazis had a way of identifying Jews, by requiring them to where a yellow Star of David in public. With this bill, it looks like you're trying to duplicate the Nazia. You should be ashamed!
02-11-2024
Max Waugh []
CON
I am writing in opposition of HF 2389. This bill would make life harder for all Iowans by creating problems for samesex parents, and jeopardizing federal domestic violence prevention funds, among other things.
02-11-2024
Michael Duede []
CON
This bill will cause a massive invasion of privacy for transgender Iowans and should on all grounds be opposed.
02-11-2024
Alex Cullison []
CON
This bill acts against the best understandings we have of the interactions of gender and sex to simplify their definitions for the sake of political aims, not scientific evidence or fact. This bill will hurt Iowans by diminishing key parts of their personhood to their ability to reproduce, which is reductive and harmful for transgender and suspender Iowans alike. For all Iowans, it is insensitive to those with fertility issues, ave is a step away from implying the function of women is to have children. For transgender Iowans, it attempts to legally erase their existence, despite significant research in anthropology, sociology, psychology, and more than demonstrates present, historical, and crosscultural examples of transgender people, in Iowa and beyond. It would present another layer to the oppression transgender Iowans face in this state and beyond, and will force people to move away, avoid the state, or suffer unjust treatment at the hands of the state. This bill cannot be allowed to pass.
02-11-2024
Anonymous []
CON
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. Poop
02-11-2024
Lori L Stiles [Citizen]
CON
Regarding HF 2389, I am IN FAVOR of the first part which simply reiterates truththat females have ability to produce ovum, and males have the reproductive system equipped to fertilize that ovum. Beyond that, I am NOT in favor of this bill because of the talk of establishing a new Birth Certificate for transitioned individuals. The fact that the number of genderdysphoric youth has more than doubled in just six years, from 2015 to 2021 (from 11% to 25%, meaning 1 in 4 youth as of two years ago think they canor have reason tochange their gender! Legislators must consider that rather than confirming and legitimizing the social contagion that is gripping our adolescent CHILDREN, they should be addressing the swarm of lies being fed to these young people. If 1 in 4 youth us gender confused as reported by the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey and CDCthen you must realize that this bill has been created because the authors have confused COMMON with NORMAL. Just because this is becoming COMMON does not mean it is NORMAL. History from the 1980s as shared by Dr. Clifford Alan Hopewell, a Fort Worth neuropsychologist, in the Oct. 12, 2022 Epoch Times:Cases of Multiple Personality Disorder began to pop up in Texas and elsewhere so frequently that new hospitals were built to deal with the problem. But, when insurance companies began to limit what they would pay for regarding mult. personality disorder claims, the cases suddenly dried up.He also notes that, Gender dysphoria is a relatively new diagnosis made up so insurance cos will cover the costs of socalled genderaffirming care. This quote applies: Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.(George Santayana). This bill requires a gender dysphoric person to go the entire distancebodily surgerysometimes referred to as mutilation of perfectly healthy body parts before theyd get this proposed new Birth Certificate. Passing this bill will drive up the number of misguided individuals getting surgeries, and surgeons and hospitals will consider this a CASH COW. Please! Dont do it!Furthermore, County Auditors and Sec. of State already cannot keep up with keeping voter rolls clean! Now, youre proposing to issue a new Birth Certificate. Consider this: The original Birth Certificates and birth names get used by bad actors to request MailIn Ballots, and fill them out! Instead, why not just give already transitioned individuals a proof of surgery card to carry in their wallet? That should suffice to show ALONG WITH their ORIGINAL Birth Certificate if they ever need highlevel ID for something. Requiring the Records Dept. to do more work is unnecessary and costly, and with the original birth often recorded in a different state than the person lives in years later, this becomes a nightmare, on many levels!Please, vote NO on HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Rita Carter []
CON
I am a person of faith and a cisgender woman who strongly opposes HF2389 as a bill based on fear and lack of understanding of transgender Iowans that is discriminatory. Saying you dont discriminate doesnt mean its true. Black Americans have fought that battle for years. Enacting this bill would create differences for transgender Iowans that tells them they are not equal and actually could put them in danger. Iowans are Iowans. Do not vote for this or any other discriminatory bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is so troubling in its effect and implication that after long discussion with my fiance and counsel with my friends and family that it even getting this far has forced my hand in moving to another state. I have lived in Iowa my entire life, but with onslaught of antitrans rhetoric and legislation being introduced in government, as a trans woman I can no longer feel safe here. The fact that this bill would close off the future of building a family with the woman I love is just one of the ways these bills close Iowa off from the trans community. With the rate at which these bills are introduced and passed, I fear for those who are younger than me. I work alongside a trans teenager and I see so much hope for the future in him, but also I see the ways this state keeps him and his peers in fear and pain. For every bill like this one that passes there are an unseen number of families separated and futures stifled out of fear.
02-12-2024
Jill Bjorklund []
CON
Why are we wasting taxpayer money advancing bills that seek to remove legal status and protections for an extremely vulnerable population that we know will end up in court? So many Iowans are facing real problems not contrived culture wars, can we work on solving those? This bill (and all the other antiLGBTQ+ bills) are solving no problems, just creating problems. So many LGBTQ+ families are fleeing the state as it is, why keep ostracizing them further by making Iowa such an unwelcoming state? Trans women are women. Trans men are men. They have always existed and will continue to exist no matter how the government tries to erase them and pretend they are not real. Vote no on HF2389!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am highly concerned by this bill. While I am relieved the driver's license/ID aspects have been removed that were present in the HSB 649 version of the bill, which would have forced transgender Iowans to out themselves in any situation requiring ID, potentially endangering themselves and opening them to the risk of discrimination, the continued inclusion of the birth certificate changes still concerns me. What concerns me still more, however, is the persistent use of the phrase "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal." The U.S. Supreme Court ruled the concept of "separate but equal" to be unconstitutional in 1954 in Brown v. the Board of Education, as I am sure most Iowa lawmakers are aware. Granted, this was in the context of race, but do we really want to be known as the state that took language previously ruled unconstitutional and discriminatory and make it the law of the land applying to another group? And why? For the purpose of maintaining an inflammatory culture war and othering an already atrisk population that makes up only a trace amount of our state's citizenry. Myself and many other Iowans are tired of the legislative attacks on our LGBTQ+ friends, family, and loved ones, who call Iowa home the same as the rest of us. They too deserve the socalled "freedom to flourish," without the fear of being treated differently or "separately" from their cisgender, heterosexual peers. Finally, I feel that a piece of legislation where the sponsoring legislator cannot even define the meaning of basic, central terms contained in the bill's text within the context of the legislation hardly deserves the time or the attention of the state legislature. (To be clear, this remark is in reference to Representative Hora's inability to define the word "equal" within the context of the bill during last week's hearings.)
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/a]
PRO
Necessary to define accurately the definition of genders and distinguish clearly the distinctions
02-12-2024
Stephanie Simatovich []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to vote no! This bill is not common sense. It would do nothing but encourage even more discrimination and harassment against transgender Iowans. MerriamWebster dictionary lists as one of its definitions of female as having a gender identity that is opposite of male. As well, one of the definitions of male is having a gender identity that is opposite of female. The definitions of male and female as defined in this bill are incorrect and incomplete. These narrow definitions do not make allowance for nonbinary or intersex people.Transgender women are not a threat to cisgender women in womens spaces. The authors of this piece of national model legislation have offered no legitimate evidence that says they are. Transgender people have been using facilities that match their gender identity in Iowa since 2007. There have been no problems caused by transgender people. If people are only allowed to use facilities based on their sex assigned at birth, what of very masculine looking transgender men? Will they be forced to use womens facilities? That would cause even more confusion, discrimination and harassment. If transgender women are forced to use mens facilities they will not only face discrimination and harassment but violence as well. This bill, if passed, will surely be challenged in the courts due to its unconstitutional language.The fact that this bill was introduced is disgusting and embarrassing. Anyone who supports this bill should be ashamed. Stop using transgender people as pawns to score political points. Iowa is better than this.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
This bill would explicitly put a target on transgender people's backs by giving anyone an easily visualized way to identify us on sightspecial markers on our IDs. Hitler would be proud of Kim Reynolds for introducing this. History is a cruel teacher of the fact that putting an easily identified mark on a minority everyone already hates leads to more violence. Everyone who supports this bill should be booed out of politics forever.
02-12-2024
Andrew Niklawski [N/A]
CON
Our Liberties we Prize, and our Rights we will Maintain. Freedom to Flourish for All, not for Some.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose bill HF 2389. People are humans and deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and kindness regardless of gender.
02-12-2024
Megan Brown [None]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. Do not be fooled by those who call it a womens protection bill. It is not. It is an attempt to discriminate against our fellow Iowans whose gender identity does not conform to the binary norm. We need to recognize that discriminating against others doesnt protect, it harms. Vote no on HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Linda Gregory [self]
CON
I am opposed to HF 2389 and urge our legislators on both sides of aisle to vote "no." Why? Because it singles out a minority (only 0.29% of the Iowa population) and serves to oppress and ostracize those individuals further than they already have been. Transgender individuals only comprise 0.29% of Iowa's population. The amount of time and effort focused on persecuting them is unfair (and unChristian!). WWJD? He would NOT do this.
02-12-2024
Elsworth Carman []
CON
CON. This proposed legislation is harmful to Iowans. Requiring disclosure of personal medical records puts transgender Iowans at unnecessary risk of discrimination and violence.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This legislation will force people to put private and sensitive medical information on their license. It puts transgender people at risk for discrimination. Please vote no.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Gilmore []
CON
I STRONGLY OPPOSE HF 2389. My 15 year old son is heartbroken, angry and confused. He cannot possibly understand why he lives in a state (and town) he loves that has targeted him with such venomous legislation. How can any of us understand? We should be loving, protecting and supporting our most vulnerable and marginalized citizens. You are continuing to put my son in more danger. This is bad for all Iowans. I have lived here my entire life, my family multiple generations. Please dont do this.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Private Citizen]
CON
This proposed legislation represents a hateful, disgraceful, discrimination of an already challenged group of Iowan. Worse, it harms children and tells them they are wrong and not worthy of protection for being who they are. Finally, the socalled party of parental choice and individual freedom is anything but when others' individual views and values run afoul of the republican party's narrow, discriminatory worldview. Your choices and agenda will doom you to the ash bin of history, where you so richly deserve to reside.
02-12-2024
Bob Brown [Private Citizen]
CON
I am in opposition to HF 2389. This legislation serves no purpose and will only segregate transgender Iowans in public facilities. Please stop attacking Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a discrimminatory bill that will negatively impact the wellbeing and mental health of Iowans. It is not the government's job to regulate Iowans in this manner.
02-12-2024
Jacob Lemons [Drake University]
CON
This bill does absolutely nothing to help Iowans. I dare you to think of a single purpose for this bill outside of its obvious intent to harm and interfere in the private lives of transgender individuals. It does not make anyone "safer." It does not make anything "easier" for except for opening the door to discrimination. I truly cannot fathom how this helps anyone in our state except those who clutch their pearls at the thought of a human being who is not white and cisgender. Stop meddling in the lives of transgender people.
02-12-2024
Eden Moad []
CON
I oppose HF 2389 on the grounds that it provides no service to the people of Iowa. In fact, it does a disservice to Iowans by requiring them to identify themselves unequally and inequitably on the basis of sex and gender, both protected identities under federal and state law. Additionally, the definitions of man and woman under a government body has no place here or anywhere. Furthermore, separate but equal is a shameful part of this countrys history and should not be revisited for any reason to limit or oppress anyone. I am appalled, I am hurt, and I hope for better for Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
When will our government focus on actual problems instead of needlessly targeting trans people? It should be clear from every bill that has faced huge opposition and been shot down, that Iowans do not want this. Kim Reynolds, please spend your time on more productive things.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Erasure of any rights becomes tyranny... vote NO on this bill and start focusing on real issues such as cleaning up the state's water, reducing cancer rates, and funding institutions that help Iowa's kids in a meaningful way. Let's help, not harm people within the community!
02-12-2024
Ellis Arnold []
CON
The existing laws regarding how sex is listed on vital records is sufficient. There is no need for this law. The proposal addresses no actual problem. Rather, it creates problems, including increased oversight and administrative costs. Iowa would have to shift its own vital records database to be able to acknowledge that vital records from other states include additional gender marker options at the time of birth, and then have a way of determining if someone has an X on their birth certificate from another state, how will that translate to an M or F in Iowa? Who decides? At current, laws in other states allow for parents to select X on their baby's birth certificate, meaning that no prior gendered record exists. What then is the Iowa government to do?Given the nonsensicalness of this law, I am left wondering if the goal of this law is actually to ensure transgender people face increased risks in their daily life. It is sickening to think that legislators would purposely seek to increase the risks their citizens face, but that appears to be the case here. Having an ID that outs people in their daily interactions (think of all the places people use an ID; whenever people pick up tickets at the theater, buy alcohol, etc), will increase the likelihood that trans people harassed, denied services, or assaulted. I am also left wondering how anyone who wants Iowa to be economically stable could support this measure. In combination with other recent antiLGBTQ+ measures, many companies are facing the reality that people are not willing to move into or stay in this state. In time, our legislators who are trying to perpetuating hate, such as this measure, will destroy our tax basis and destabilize our already fragile communities.This bill, like many in the legislature, will be detrimental not just to LGBTQ Iowans but to all of us.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Republican ]
CON
Our FATHER who art in Heaven,Hallowed be thy NAME,Thy KINGDOM Come,Thy WILL be done!On EARTH as it is in Heaven!!This begins the universal prayer as taught by the one and only true Teacher. This knowledge is not new nor is it old. It is timeless. Selfevident truth to the Laws of Nature and natures God. Our fore fathers and especially our fore mothers knew this well. With gratitude, they professed their belief of the, who we are. As proud American Iowans they proclaimed: WE THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF IOWA, GRATEFUL TO THE SUPREME BEING FOR THE BLESSINGS HITHERTO ENJOYED, AND FEELING OUR DEPENDENCE ON HIM FOR A CONTINUATION OF THESE BLESSINGS, do ordain and establish a free and independent government Self evident was listening to God the Father and Creator. It was the Creator who formed man from the earth creating him in HIS image. It was God, the Father and Creator who for His love for man took one of his ribs and formed woman with the love from his heart. Two individuals whom together form one family. The Fathers creation is not up for discussion but for us to see and learn the process of discovering the greatness. Man has neither the insight nor knowledge to create any thing else. This YOU and YOU alone will answer to THE FATHER. Jesus states: (The Founders Bible)Matthew 18:6. but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.Ephesians 4:14. As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful schemingMark 9:42 Whosever causes one of these little ones who believe to stumble, it would be better for him if, with a heavy millstone hung around his neck, he had been cast into the seaEphesians 5:6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedienceEvil has no foot hold in America and especially Iowa.. Why is that factual? The first gift given from God is your soul. It it universally know to live forever. The SOUL is you and you alone no one else shares it, you dont recycle it it is yours alone. The second gift God, the Creator gives is FREE WILL. You choose every moment where your forever home will be. Darkness and desolation or Light and Beauty. If you choose to teach, demonstrate, promote, live outside of the commandments set forth by God the Creator, you are choosing evil and it will consume your soul until you act and speak and think not in the ways of human nature. If you choose to follow God, the Creators commandments (the laws of nature) and guard your relationship with HIM You will be protected by the Holy Spirit. This vote is YOUR Free Will answering to the Father and Creator for YOUR soul. Choose carefully! As for the fore fathers and mothers and all proud American Iowans we choose and will serve the LORD! Joshua 24:15. REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE!
02-12-2024
Michelle Townsend []
CON
Vote no to HF2389. Iowans are not asking for this bill. Iowans do not need a codified definition of mother or father in an attempt to erode the rights of trans folks or to erase members of the LGBTQ+ community. Please ask yourselves, what Iowans will this help? Whose life will this improve and how? The answer is no one because it does nothing to better the daily lives of any Iowan. Not only hateful, this is wholly discriminatory and unlikely to withstand challenge in the courts. If your purpose as an elected public servant is to create policy that protects all Iowans but most especially those who are marginalized or most vulnerable, and to improve the ways in which Iowans live while reducing economic burdens and barriers to freedoms, this misses on every front. Please listen to your constituents and the scores of Iowans emailing, submitting comments, and showing up who are all telling you this is wrong for Iowa and Iowans. Regardless of what you pass, LGBTQ+ people, trans people, and those of us who love, live and fight in solidarity with them will NEVER be erased. Vote no.
02-12-2024
Lori Martin []
PRO
It is unfortunate that such a bill needs to be passed. But it does. God created men and women differently, each for their own purpose and for His Glory. Switching genders (and proclaiming to switch biological sex) is impossible, and only serves to harm and cause chaos as we have already seen in public restrooms and sports. I believe this bill will help to clarify any future legislative or legal issues that can be muddled by the use of the term "gender" and an undefined term of "sex"
02-12-2024
Nick Dallege []
CON
This is an unnecessary bill that has the sole purpose of making some Iowans feel unwelcome in their state. Iowas motto is our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain and this bill spits in the face of that ideal.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This bill is hateful and wrong, Iowans are better than this. Stop wasting our taxpayers time and money on your personal misguided moral campaign and actually govern in a way that benefits your constituents.
02-12-2024
Danetta Dobre []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. Congratulations to the legislators and lobbyists who delight in stirring up fear and reducing people (your friends, your family, your children, YOU) down to poorly researched biological buzzwords. Theyd be proud to say that the party of small government has a reasonable interest in your genitals!Lets be real, this bill has nothing to do with the actual problems the state of Iowa is facing. We have the 2nd highest cancer rate in the country. Were dead last 51st in state mental health beds. Our rural areas are losing talented, desperately needed OB/GYN amid poor pay and hostile abortion legislation. The last few weeks of transphobic, antiLGBTQ bills has been buoyed by a national wave of hated across the country and is not a reflection of the state of Iowa and its people. Trans people do not need to be identified as such on any ID whatsoever. The only people who need to know information like that are the medical professionals administering gender affirming care.While the whole bill is hateful, the separate accommodations are not necessarily inequal bit is just uniquely crazy. I realize that the cruelty is the point for some of you but the GALL to attach your name to a piece of legislation with that there Read the bill, read the room. Vote no.
02-12-2024
Hannah Wolos [None]
CON
This bill is ridiculous. It is a direct attack on the LGBTQ community and trying to out them as other to the world. Iowans are better than this. We do not want to discriminate and segregate good people based on their identity or for any reason. Stop attacking and submitting bills of hate. All this does is drive people away from our state. We have a number of other issues that need addressed, so any bill to further alienate the LGBTQ community shouldnt even be up for discussion.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is dangerous to personal privacy and personal freedoms. It is directly harmful to LGBTQIA+ Iowans. I have friends and family who are looking to leave Iowa due to hostile legislation like this bill. Reintroducing the idea of"separate but equal" but claiming separate accomodations aren't unequal is obviously incorrect and unconstitutional. Please do not pass this bill.
02-12-2024
Marc Falk []
CON
I support trans rights and am opposed to this bill. "Separate but equal" is not right or just.
02-12-2024
Julie Hackett []
CON
I vote NO to this bill and others like it that take rights away from the Transgender community. It is hateful, and harmful and does not benefit Iowa. What happened to "Iowa Nice" the state that is welcoming to ALL?
02-12-2024
Jasmyn Jordan [Iowa Young Americans for Freedom]
PRO
I stand on the basic truths and foundations of this world which stem from the Bible. Genesis 1:27 says So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Every single human is either man or woman. This is defined by their genetic makeup and cannot ever be changed.
02-12-2024
Michael Roberts []
CON
I'm writing in opposition to HF2389. This is another step in the cynical strategy of republicans to demonize and attack the trans/nonbinary community. It is shameful that our legislature prioritizes attacking marginalized groups over feeding hungry children, providing access to quality public education, and ensuring Iowans have clean water to drink.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please don't make this state law. It's pure discrimination and ignores all science and research. And, regardless of opinions, I wish our state government would focus more on our deteriorating infrastructure, eroding farm land and water pollution, and taking care of our children. These are far bigger priorities that affect the majority of Iowans, unlike a tiny population of people who simply want to feel comfortable in their own bodies.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am a Christian grandma who is tired of the legislators fighting culture wars and not doing their elected job of figuring out funding, road rules, etc. The reasons I am against this bill:1. I feel that marginalized groups should find love and understanding in their state, not discrimination. 2. I am also a scientist and understand that gender is not an either/or. There are so many other genetic and chemical factors involved. There is even variations genetically as far as the X & Y chromosomes are involved. That either/or is a simplistic explanation given to children when they are first learning about genetics. It is so much more complicated. 3. This bill is not only discriminatory, it could be harmful psychologically to individuals. Groups may not feel safe. I have been taught to do no harm. This bill could do harm to individuals and groups. I used to be proud of living in Iowa, but no longer. This path the state is on due to their culture war agenda is truly dark. We have dropped in education and tourism due to these types of laws. Please stop considering this bill and any bills similar.
02-12-2024
Felicia Pieper []
CON
HF2359 is discriminatory and regressive. Vote NO.
02-12-2024
Natalie Hall []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. It will cause a myriad of negative effects for ALL Iowans. Transgender people will continue to exist, and they are worthy of protection and equality. Kim Reynolds will destroy this state if the legislature continues to pass her antiLGBTQ+ bills. People will leave. People will die. The people YOU represent. Stand up for what's right and voice your opposition to this bill. Love Always Wins!!!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Aelf]
CON
There is no reason for this bill and is targeted bullying of what should be a protected class of people. THIS IS STATE SANCTIONED DISCRIMINATION. please stip claiming to be Iowa nice. Please do something for the people of Iowa that helps them instead of hurts people.
02-12-2024
Jean Swenson [individual]
CON
This hateful bill has no place in Iowa. HF2389 most certainly goes against our state motto, "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain." It tramples, and removes, the rights of trans people. I am embarrassed that we need to define woman and man, mother and father. AND, "separate but equal" is terrifying language. Have we not learned anything from our past mistakes?It's time for some "original" Iowa legislation. Stop filing model legislation from other organizations that everyday Iowans do not want. I urge your defeat of HF2389, and all other hateful, hurtful bills that treat LGBTQ people as "less than."
02-12-2024
Maxi Hedlund []
CON
This bill endangers Iowans. It exposes transgender individuals to harassment. It violates the privacy of citizens. It threatens loving families with LGBTQ parents. It jeopardizes federal funding for domestic violence centers. It definitely contradicts the Christian moral teaching of loving your neighbor. (Not just you cis gender ones.)
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Parent ]
CON
There are some real issues in Iowa, please focus on those instead of culture wars. This is NOT a peoblem in Iowa. On the contrary, the language used by the Governor (separate but equal) is too similar, both in intent and in words, of segregationists of the 1950s and 1960s. What are we doing?! Quit obsessing about culture wars and focus on bills to feed our children, employ our adults, clean our environment, and protect people's right to pursue happiness. Please do not support this bill. All this attention on culture war issues, book bans, gender obession makes me want to leave Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
It's disappointing to once again see another bill that will impede Iowans rights and privacy. No one should ever be forced to disclose private medical information to the general public, especially considering the number of public shootings we've seen escalate over the last decade targeted at LQBTQIA+ individuals. Drivers licenses are required to even buy basic over the counter medicines in some places. Why should I have to disclose my sex at birth to a random store clerk? My family has been in Iowa for generations. I am someone who identifies as a women and was assigned female at birth. Governor Reynold's claims this bill is to "protect women and girls" yet I feel much more exposed by this bill than feel protected by it. What about intersex individuals? Many intersex individuals are externally feminine or masculine presenting and have the opposite organs inside of them. How is this bill fair to them? This bill claims to help protect people and prevent discrimination yet simultaneously puts a target on the back of anyone who is different. All Iowan's deserve privacy, safety and security. Not only the ones certain people deem worthy. And as a Black woman, I am appalled by the "separate but equal" framing which has already been deemed racist and unconstitutional. I am a proud United States citizen and to continual see Iowa legislature try to pass unconstitutional laws makes me question if our Governor understands that we are one nation under God or if we are trying to separate ourselves and turn ourselves into a police state. I implore you not to pass this bill.
02-12-2024
Lance Foxwell []
CON
This bill goes against the Iowa I grew up in . the Iowa where everyone is welcome, where everyone is family, regardless of race, creed, sex.I miss the nice Iowa. Lets bring back being kind and understanding instead of making the marginalized live in fear.
02-12-2024
Sara Even [NA]
CON
I strongly oppose this legislation and ask representatives of Iowans to do the same. Its ironic that the public comments for this will be reviewed for hateful language yet this legislation is full of nothing but hate and harm for transgender and nonbinary Iowans. This type of policy drives away people with established lives in the state and stops individuals and families from moving to the state because it enshrines that they are unsafe and unwelcome here. Shame on you for letting it get this far.
02-12-2024
Cal Solverson [Capital City Pride]
CON
House Bill 2389, also known as the LGBTQ Erasure Act, represents a regressive and discriminatory piece of legislation that poses significant harm to transgender individuals and their families in Iowa. This bill not only perpetuates discrimination but also seeks to erase the identities of transgender Iowans from state law.First and foremost, the bill mandates the issuance of special birth certificates to transgender individuals that would indicate their transgender status. This provision not only singles out and stigmatizes transgender individuals but also violates their privacy rights. It effectively outs transgender individuals without their consent, exposing them to potential discrimination and harassment.Furthermore, the bill defines terms such as "man" and "woman" in a way that would create complications for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children. By rigidly adhering to outdated and narrow definitions of gender, the bill undermines the rights of samesex couples and their families. It disregards the diverse and complex realities of modern families and reinforces harmful stereotypes about gender and parenthood.Moreover, the bill seeks to use the language of "separate but equal," a notion that has been widely discredited and associated with segregation and discrimination. By attempting to segregate transgender individuals through the issuance of special birth certificates, the bill openly promotes discrimination and marginalization.Overall, House Bill 2389 not only discriminates against transgender individuals but also undermines the rights and dignity of all LGBTQ+ people in Iowa. It is imperative that lawmakers reject this harmful and discriminatory legislation and instead work towards promoting equality, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or expression.Hate has no place in Iowa. Do better. Be Better.
02-12-2024
Gordon Reeder [Peace]
CON
We the people have the right to Liberty without Tyranny. Liberty for everyone. It is ok for a person to think poorly of another citizen or group of citizens, it is maybe even natural. We dont like Trans people, gay people, rednecks, blacks, taylor swifties, this religion or that political party, white men, the homeless, or a new arrival, or kids that ride skate boards. We dont gotta like them, and leave them alone.Acting from our best and truest selves we should be nice to them, those we disagree with, do not understand, invoke in us fear or discomfort. Civility indicates that we should treat them kindly and with humanity. Or not. That is our choice and I hope we pay a price for bullying and cruelty.Our government does not have that choice. Our government is designed to protect us from our base instincts to look with logic through the fog of emotion, to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity. That far too often they fail and fail such that it is sane to believe they are not trying, it is our right and our duty to hold them true to the document they have sworn to uphold.This government, gathering in this gilded statehouse, is choosing to promote fear over Tranquility, narrow law over Justice, specific harm over general Welfare. And act in Tyranny over the Blessings of Liberties. They must be stopped and they must be held accountable for their hateful vitriol that seeks to punish all of us who live and grow and love in sunshine and freezing rain, in the mania of their absolute thirst for power and control.
02-12-2024
Tom Carsner []
CON
The Iowa state motto: "Our liberties we prize, Our rights we will maintain." This bill eliminates rights to a specific protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Bill. Rights are rights. All Iowans are diminished when one group is diminished. Iowans want to maintain civil rights for all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Amanda Acton []
CON
I stand very much against this bill, which would legally define "man" and "woman" using outdated, scientifically inaccurate, and noncomprehensive definitions of sex. There is no logical or legal reason for this. No one is attempting to commit crime or engage in fraudulent behavior by correcting the gender assigned to them at birth. The only possible outcome for this legislation would be extra layers of bureaucracy for the government, undue burden for nonstraight individuals and couples, and actual harm for people whose only "crime" is to want to exist. Further, the legislation, if passed, will only further the brain drain and departure of business from our state. No one wants to live and work in (or pay taxes to) a state that cannot keep up with the times.
02-12-2024
Laney I Guintard []
CON
I am against HF 2389 (Formerly HSB 649). I am against it, because is displays a profound lack of empathy, emotional awareness, and research into the lives of Transgender Iowans and their families. Society does not operate in separatebutequal bubbles where the beliefs of one group do not impede the rights of another group. The ideas being presented in this bill are a slippery slope. Who else will business owners soon be allowed to discriminate against? Are we supposed to be proud that a business owner would be allowed to brag about hiring practices that may legally "out" the applicants? Are we supposed to be proud that we can deny the humanity of children in Elementary and Middle school by pretending that their pronouns do not exist? To recommend that Intersex infants and children have "gender affirming surgery" they cannot consent to, while denying that opportunity to a consenting Transgender Iowan who will suffer and perhaps die without it? None of these issues lives in a bubble, they are all connected. It's devastating and disappointing that we are talking about legal discrimination in a forum that was designed to do what is right for ALL Iowans, not a few. I can't imagine the anger and sadness felt by LGBTQIA Iowans must be at this moment. Trans Rights are Human Rights. LGBTQIA rights are Human rights.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this bill as it restricts freedoms and harms trans individuals.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
HF 2389 promotes public discrimination of transgender Iowans under the guise of protecting women. The reality of this bill is to publicly shame a specific group of people who are perceived by right wing Republicans as unworthy citizens of our state. The bill as written is a solution looking for a problem (that does not exist) and would reopen a new chapter in segregation in Iowa. Governor Reynolds and the Republican caucus should be ashamed of attacking civil rights. I wholeheartedly oppose HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Tom Deierling []
PRO
God created humans as either male or female. This is evident through basic biology. Any efforts to 'trans' confused kids is morally reprehensible.
02-12-2024
Gordie Felger []
CON
Dear Gov. Reynolds,I reject your blackandwhite premise of rigid gender norms. A vibrant spectrum of humanity exists beyond your strict male/female binary model. You use this limiting view to control those who dont conform. Your belief in two genders does not make it so. Exploiting it for political gain does not make it so. Abusing legislative power to enforce your worldview does not make it so. The gender binary is an invalid, human construct.I denounce every part of your House Study Bill 649. You will not force me into a male or female box. Yes, I was born male. I identify as male. So, what do I care if your bill makes life even harsher for a bunch of queers? Because, Gov. Reynolds, those queers are my friends! When you persecute my friends, you make politics personal!I write to inform you that, as of now, my sex designation is Person. My gender marker is no longer M. It is P.Im sorry if this offends your narrow sensibilities (NOT!). But your war on LGBTQ+ Iowansmy friendsoffends me and the thousands of human beings you will never know or care about. Your policies are an insult to humanity. We are not your subjects. We are your constituents. You were elected to serve us. To protect our freedoms. To improve the quality of life for ALL Iowans. Instead, you choose to inflict anxiety, pain, and suffering. Your administration will someday end. We, the Iowa people, will endure.
02-12-2024
Morgan Hockey []
CON
This bill does absolutely nothing to help Iowans. Reynolds knows she has nothing to offer the people of Iowa, so she has to resort to attacking trans people for some cheap points with her base.On page 1, line 15, what does equal mean if NOT same or identical? The bills tells us these definitions aren't the same, but does not clarify what equal actually DOES mean. Do you want to live in a state where equal no longer has any weight or meaning in law?Page 1 line 16, "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal". Do we really want to try "separate but equal" again? This is blatantly unconstitutional, and a waste of legislators' time, and taxpayer dollars, to try and pass a bill that will not make it through the courts.Stop trying to strip rights from Iowans and do something useful, like addressing water quality and rising cancer rates in the state.We've always been here, and we will always be here. We will not go quiet.
02-12-2024
Piper Wood []
CON
I am opposed to the invasive, divisive content of HSB 649. This bill compromises the freedoms of Iowans, and enshrines gender discrimination and gender based violence into law. I oppose this legislation and everything that it stands for.
02-12-2024
Jacquelyn Richter []
CON
I have lived my life as Jacquelyn for 30+ years. I hurt no one, I impose myself in Noone, I only try to live my life as I know it, as Jacqyelyn. When I came out the treatment I received is exactly what thus bill seeks to resurrect. I lost my job, I was blackballed in my career, my marriage ended as did my contact with my children, my family disowned me, my friends abandoned me. I was shot at, someone tried to run me over with their car, my tires were slashed, hate messages were left for me. I was unemployed , homeless and alone, even my church said they couldn't guarantee my physical safety if I continued to attend. The local DA threatened to have me arrested and imprussoned if caught using a public restroom. I became suicidal. I survived and rebuilt a life as acceptance grew. Now this governor and government is seeking to restuligmatize my being. I have hurt no one in these 30+ years, I have violated no one's privacy. I have only sought to live my life in peace without fear of violence. Please don't make my last few years , years of fear, isolation and discrimination
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Concerned citizen]
CON
This bill is an abomination and will continue to harm your constituents. Shame on those who insist on upholding antiquated fragile white men's ideals.
02-12-2024
Shelly L Northway []
CON
Please vote NO.
02-12-2024
Matthew Blizek [None]
CON
This bill is needless culture war nonsense that doesn't help a single Iowan. In fact other states that have passed similar legislation have had more people leave, and businesses boycotting the state. Iowans are a welcoming and kind people, and this type of hateful bill that targets vulnerable people is not what we are about.
02-12-2024
John Kenyon []
CON
Please vote NO. Do not forward this bill. This is unnecessary, hateful legislation that seems to have no other purpose than to marginalize and punish a small sliver of the state's population. I can see no positive benefits of this bill, but many potentially harmful and dangerous effects. Legislation like this sends a message that Iowa is a closeminded, unwelcoming state. At a time when businesses cite workforce shortages, I can't imagine why the Legislature would want to take steps to drive people away and make it less attractive to potential new residents. Please vote NO.
02-12-2024
Katie Freeman []
CON
I was born in Iowa, grew up here, got my education here, all the way through grad school. I got legally married to my wife here almost 14 years ago, and we are raising our two children here. This bill causes undo burden upon me and my family. It requires my family to have to take additional measures to be recognized as a family. It is traumatizing to my children. Please discontinue going above and beyond to discriminate against my community and my family. Please vote no.
02-12-2024
Brie Baugher [N/A]
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill which would allow for open discrimination of LGBTQIA+ Iowans. This bill is backwards and would ensure that the lives of queer and trans folks in the state be made much harder. Invoking separate but equal is a clear indication of prejudice and discrimination and I urge lawmakers to remember this as they vote. Do not pass this backwards bill.
02-12-2024
Martha Fifield []
CON
Let's not allow history to repeat itself. Through the decades in our country, we have seen time and again that separate but equal is never equal. We in Iowa have taken pride in a history of equality. Equality under the law should remain a priority. No one should experience discrimination, in particular lawful discrimination. Transgender Iowans should not be marginalized for simply living their lives and trying to be who they are.
02-12-2024
Tara Misra []
CON
Governor Reynolds needs to stop attacking those who are different. Requiring these markers on driver's licenses would put trans people at risk, and mandating private health information on a public document is against HIPPA law. Stop hurting trans and other marginalized groups.
02-12-2024
Merric Bower []
CON
The Supreme Court ruled that "separate but equal" facilities are inherently unequal and unconstitutional in 1955 (Brown v. Board of Education). No matter the intentions of anyone involved, separate accommodations systematically do not remain equal. Not to mention, this bill is obviously an attack on transgender and nonbinary Iowans, and intended to deny equal rights and access for people who's gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth. Furthermore, the defining of woman and man is done is such as way to open dissemination towards people whoa re intersex, or even cisgender people with reproductive anomalies including infertility. This bill is unconstitutional, negligent at best and discriminatory at worst. Do not pass this travesty into law, doing so would be both immoral and harm Iowans.
02-12-2024
Perry Lenz []
CON
I strongly oppose this unconstitutional bill that clearly discriminates against trans people.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Why are we worried about what gender term someone wants to be recognized by? If this bill is passed we will be going back on our progress on equality as a whole. Each and every person would feel SAFE and WANTED in this state, not hate for what they want to be classified on. This will be the first steps into banning transitions from male to female or vis versa. In extension, the people who dont necessarily feel like they fit in either of those terms. Not all females can produce ova. Not all males can develop the fertilization needs to produce an offspring. The terms mother and father does not mean that personnel physically gave birth or partook in that process. It is who helped raise the child, just because someone has specific genitalia does not mean they are that gender.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I do not believe this law should pass . It violates a basic principle of being human beings Change . The fluidity of a person should not be dictated by the state . We do not need laws in place that can be used to harbor hatred or distain .
02-12-2024
Amy Moore []
CON
This is an unnecessary and pandering bill. It is as if the Governor feels the need to make a yearly statement showing her continued efforts to make our state free of the wonderful, talented, diverse people who make up, and who support the LGBTQ community. This year I watched a trans student be unable to return to her volleyball team and be banished to the nurses restroom rather than having those experiences with other girls her age. I will say that she is very separate and not even close to equal. The other students did not know that she was assigned female at birth. But they did after the Governors cruel laws were enacted. That is when safety issues arise.This bill ruins the lives of real people. It is for control and for show. Although driving away the people of our state might gain and retain Republican votes, it is despicable, unconstitutional, heartless, and unChristian. Im asking our elected legislators to be better, and then do better.
02-12-2024
Mandi King []
CON
This bill is outright cruel and hypocritical. Only 0.26% of adults in Iowa identify as trans. This is not only a civil rights nightmare for an extremely small, marginalized group in the state. Forced outing is a violation of an individuals boundaries. Forced outing is a violation of an individuals boundaries.To add to this, the bill claims to be for womens rights, yet Iowas GOP has repeatedly shown they dont care about womens health with their attempt at enforcing a 6week abortion ban. This aint about womens rights, its an attempt to control another set of individuals.Lastly, if Iowas GOP really endorses freedom, it must be freedom for all, no matter their gender, sex, religion, etc. Otherwise that idea of freedom is outrightly deceptive and selfish.End this culture war and focus on Iowas REAL problems. Vote NO on HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Forcing trans kids to use bathrooms that are not aligned with their gender identity are 26% to 149% more likely to be the sexual violence victims in those spaces. (American Academy of Pediatrics)
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Iowans do not need laws to tell them who they are, they know who they are. Let us determine for ourselves how we identify and live and express ourselves. Please keep your bills off our bodies. I strongly oppose this bill and urge our government to not pass it into law.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill, and others like it, only serve to make Iowa an unwelcoming place. In real terms, what does this bill do to actually improve any lives of Iowans? As far as I can tell, the only thing that it does is make it specifically worse for a certain type of citizen. Incredibly disappointing that "separate is not inherently unequal" is being used in complete seriousness. Even if true, it does not explicitly mean that therefore all separate spaces are equal. If this is not the case, why are "single sexed" spaces even needed? The very existence of such spaces, which the bill specifically wants to preserve, instead shows that separate and unequal is the point! It's an admission that these separations are not equal in some aspect.Ignoring that issue, purely from a mechanical basis, differentiating trans Iowans in the way described has functionally no effect on the average nontrans Iowan. The numbers are such that even if the inclusion of trans Iowans into spaces they are a part of is an issue (which I do not accept), the nontrans Iowans are essentially not impacted by this change either way; I have lived in this state for 10 years and I have never seen a demonstrably trans man in a men's bathroom, or in any men's group I am a part of, or anything similar. On the other hand, trans Iowans are grossly affected by this change. They are functionally excluded from society if they wish to maintain any level of safety for themselves. They are forced by the bill to continually treat their identity differently. And for what benefit to them? Their doctors already will know. Police shouldn't need to know. The state government has no particular interest that is fulfilled. So why the harm? How is this anything except for the state interfering with the liberty of individuals to live their life as they see fit?I was raised in a deeply Christian manner. We are commanded to love they neighbor. It is a point of faith that I am obliged to defend the downtrodden, especially against state actions of persecution. This is true regardless of their situation and station in life; whether it fits in my worldview or not. If you proceed with this bill, can you truly say the same? Can you truly believe yourself to be following the foot steps of Christ?
02-12-2024
Angela Ellerbroek []
CON
I oppose this bill. It comes from a place of ignorance. If members of the Iowa legislature vote for this bill, it is due to disinterest in learning or laziness or misguided thinking. Get to know your constituents and not just the white cis het ones.
02-12-2024
Susan Hurst []
CON
HSB 649, which seeks to legally define "man," "woman," and "sex" based on sex assigned at birth, overlooks the scientific understanding of sexuality as a spectrum. This bill's language, excluding explicit mention of intersex individuals, who constitute a significant portion of the human species, risks further marginalization. The assertion that separate accommodations are not inherently unequal echoes past justifications for segregation. The bill's support by Governor Kim Reynolds, under the guise of protecting women's spaces and rights, is troubling. LGBTQ rights activists have dubbed this the "LGBTQ erasure act," highlighting potential discrimination and privacy violations. The potential impact on transgender athletes is also a significant concern. It is requested that this bill be reconsidered, taking into account the potential harm it could cause to marginalized communities.
02-12-2024
Desirea Solo []
CON
I want to start by stating that this is a HUGE waste of time, money and resources by Kim Reynolds and the republicans in our state. Your responsibility is to the people, to serve your constituents and make life better in the state of Iowa. Attacking our people through illegitimate arguments like gender is outrageous and not backed up by science. These are personal views being pushed into our political system that will harm so many innocent Iowans just trying to live their lives. I encourage our representatives to do some actual research on the subject, where you will find that gender is not so black and white, we all have genetics that likely defy the definition you are pushing to implement. Your comfort does not determine what should be legal or illegal. Your priorities are skewed and I encourage you to take a step back and refocus your efforts into improving life in Iowa for ALL.
02-12-2024
Cheryl Wieseler []
CON
This bill is based in hate and bigotry and nothing else. In a state where there are REAL problems lack of clean water, lack of childcare, a shortage of medical providers, and growing cancer rates, to name just a few, it is absolutely disgusting that our representatives and our governor, who are paid by OUR TAX DOLLARS are wasting their time and energy punching down on vulnerable people. Stop legislating hate and start addressing the actual problems in our state!
02-12-2024
Ang Malenda [Citizen]
CON
I cannot emphasize enough how strongly I oppose this bill. Since when has separate ever been equal? There is no reasoning behind this except hate, exclusion, and discrimination all of which is used to uphold a very particular system of power in the United States. For a party that espouses freedom and touts the first amendment, its particularly intriguing the ways in which this bill desperately attempts to infringe on freedom and in the most harmful of ways. I ask, honestly: who is this bill serving? What purpose does it have? How is this constitutional a document you so clearly cling to? This is a blatant violation of transgender/LGBTQ+ community civil rights. At the very, very least: have you nothing better to do? Could we not be investing into our communities instead? We just have to do so much better than thisThis bill has to be stopped and voted against. Anything otherwise continues to prove our descent into facism.
02-12-2024
Alison stimson [Private individual]
CON
This bill uses medical definitions of gender that are private information under HIPAA and are not relevant to Iowa law. This is an attempt to enable future transphobic legislation.
02-12-2024
Maddie Rocha Smith [one iowa ]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. I think this is an egregious form of discrimination against LGBTQ+ Iowans and I am worried how it would disproportionately impact transgender folks. Shame on Gov. Reynolds and anyone who supports this bill.
02-12-2024
Pastor Brad Cranston [Iowa Baptists for Biblical Values]
PRO
Natural law dictates that there are only two genders. The Bible declares that we were created either male or female. Any attempt to redefine gender or to claim that gender is fluid is an attempt to defy both natural and biblical truth. That is not hate speech any more than saying that the sun only comes up in the east and only sets in the west is hate speech. In this day of confusion and a sustained, deliberate attack on God's perfect design for humanity and human flourishing, we applaud the Governor's resolve to state the obvious and defend the creation order.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
Don't we have better things to spend our time on than wasting tax payer money paying those you are SUPPOSED to represent us on a hateful bill that will only cost us MORE when we have to fight this in court for civil rights violations.Stop wasting our money on these things against a group that represents 1% or less than the population. Either be fiscally responsible or say the quiet part out loud with all of the populist propaganda.
02-12-2024
Susan Meenan []
CON
This is a hurtful bill. Transgender people deserve love and respect like anyone else. What happened to freedom for Iowans?
02-12-2024
Nathan Wood []
CON
Do not pass this bill. Forcing trans Iowans to have a marker on them is weird and it's also genuinely close to how Jewish people were treated in 1930's Germany. This looks and is incredibly bad and is a huge sign of how reynolds and whoever votes in favor of this bill feel about trans Iowans. Leave them alone and let them live their lives.
02-12-2024
Dotta Hassman []
CON
Please do not pass the HF2389 bill! It is hurtful and unnecessary. The issue it purports to address does not exist. Let us all live together without this kind of hurtful legislation.
02-12-2024
Jon Miller []
CON
This is a bill based on fear and hate. Please focus on things like care in nursing homes, school funding deadlines, puppy mills, infrastructure spending, etc. Iowa did not become a great state because of culture wars or marginalizing a small group of our friends/neighbors so another small group and outofstate donors can feel like they're winning something. Vote no. Move on. Lead and govern, stop dictating and imposing.
02-12-2024
Christopher Merz []
CON
I am writing to express my vehement opposition to this bigoted and hateful bill, which will do nothing to make kids safer, but will in fact add to the danger already faced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am tired of hearing about our state legislature's most hateful members taking up valuable time considering discriminatory legislation targeting marginalized groups;time that should be spent getting a budget together for our public schools and Universities in a timely manner (which this legislature has failed to do, yet again). Research shows that kids are at far grater danger of sexual assault from members of the clergy and legislators than from trans kids who are just trying to live their lives. Please stop targeting queer and trans kids.
02-12-2024
susan andersen []
CON
Taking away the rights of humans is inhumane.Making Iowa a state of constant discrimination iscounterproductive to a thriving state.Our liberties we prize Our rights we will maintain.STOP this BILL.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill does not protect women, but it protects those who want to discriminate against the trans community. The shifting of the definition of the word equal is deeply disturbing for what it entails, with legislature in the future potentially capitalizing on the lax and contradictory definition placed within this document. Trans people needing to indicate they are trans on their birth certificate puts them in immediate danger for job security and home security, for if they apply to a job or apartment/home and must present legal identification, the indicator of the person being trans can result in the holder of the job or housing to reject purely on the basis of transness. This bill is oppressive, unconstitutional, and a loss to almost all parties involved.
02-12-2024
Abigail Hoffman-Carlson []
CON
Before this bill can go any further, the protections for intersex individuals must be considered and defined. My daughter has Turner syndrome and has only 1 X chromosome. She cannot produce eggs in order to have biological children, even if she wants to. The only language used in the ADA regarding sex and gender refers to "transsexuals". At this moment in time, differences in sex chromosomes are not considered disabilities. There is absolutely nothing that gives her any "protection" in this law. This needs to be explicitly stated if my daughter is meant to be "protected" under this definition of woman. Is my child now considered disabled in the state of Iowa? Will an intersex bathroom requirement be added to building codes so that my child has a safe place to relieve herself?Further, there is no reason why the government should even need to know my child's medical information in the first place. Legislators are not medical professionals. Did you consult any in the course of writing this bill? Finally, this bill is morally and ethically wrong, and you know it. Stop trying to make trans people illegal. I have never been afraid of a trans woman in a woman's restroom. I have been afraid of men. This keeps no one safe, and you are causing harm to more people than you're intending in your attempts to hurt trans people.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Self]
CON
I am Amelia, a cybersecurity professional deeply involved in safeguarding digital infrastructure and promoting online safety. I am writing to express my grave concerns regarding the proposed House File 2389, which, I believe, not only undermines the fundamental rights of certain groups but also inadvertently heightens cybersecurity threats to our state.This bills focus on restricting the rights and recognition of transgender individuals in Iowa is not just a social issue; its a cybersecurity concern. In my years of experience in cybersecurity, Ive seen how policies that marginalize or alienate groups of people can lead to increased online threats. When we create an environment of exclusion or discrimination, we inadvertently foster the kind of societal divisions that malicious actors exploit.Cybersecurity thrives on collaboration, trust, and inclusivity. A policy like HF2389, which aims to discriminate against a specific group, undermines these principles. It can lead to a lack of trust in state institutions, making individuals less likely to cooperate with important cybersecurity initiatives or share critical information. This can leave us all more vulnerable to cyber attacks.Moreover, policies that marginalize communities can become targets for cyber activists and hackers who might exploit these political divisions, leading to increased cyber threats against state infrastructure. The digital safety of our citizens is intertwined with how we treat them. Inclusive policies contribute to a safer and more secure digital environment for everyone.I urge you to reconsider the implications of HF2389, not only from a human rights perspective but also from a cybersecurity standpoint. Our goal should always be to create a more secure, inclusive, and resilient Iowa for all.Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.Sincerely,Amelia
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
Coming from the governor who claims to have "Increased access to behavioral and mental health care" in Iowa, this bill will contribute to the opposite of that. Erasing lgbtqia identities will not make them go away, it will only isolate and harm then. This is especially true for youth in this community. They deserve to be seen as who they are, not who you want them to be.
02-12-2024
Heather Riley []
CON
The transgender population is a very tiny percentage of Iowans, yet these incessant bills which seek to diminish trans Iowans' humanity, persecute them, and treat them as second class citizens continue to be put forth. There is no other reason to pass House File 2389 than to make life even more difficult for a minority community which is already singled out for discrimination, mistreatment, persecution, and harassment. This is unacceptable, wrong, and dangerous ideology. House File 2389 solves no problem (other than proposed hypothetical situations), rather creates problems for this small subset of Iowans who just want to be left alone, free from government interference in their lives.Please, please do not give your approval to this bill and focus, instead, on issues that advance the lives and livelihoods of Iowans. ALL Iowans.
02-12-2024
Kris Meinhard [concerned Christian]
CON
I would like to ask Governor Reynolds where her fear/hatred of trans citizens of Iowa comes from? I thought she would be wanting to maintain & improve a welcoming environment in Iowa so people & businesses would want to be in Iowa. We're desperately short of workers so need to encourage people to come here. Instead we are chasing them away.
02-12-2024
Courtney Reyes [One Iowa]
CON
Please do not support this piece of legislation. Focus on legislation that will help and not harm Iowans. This legislature has done an excellent job of tainting the water we are swimming in over the past five years. LGBTQ folks dont feel safe here. We are afraid and we are just trying to exist. I know you might be thinking that YOU are afraid of us, our children, and our queerness that we are coming for you and your families. You do not need to be afraid of us. Let me be very clear we do not think about your family in our free time. We are just trying to survive. We are thinking about our basic human rights being stripped away. We want our children to grow and thrive and be surrounded by community. We want to live in a state where we feel like we belong.
02-12-2024
Diane Peterson []
CON
Totally against this bill. Who or what will pay for this discriminatory bill. There are unintended consequences not spelled out. Creating any class of citizen as separate from the rest is unconstitutional.
02-12-2024
Alaina Elliott-Wherry []
CON
I strongly oppose this discriminatory piece of legislation. This hateful bill very clearly targets LGBTQIA+ folx and intends to invalidate and erase peoples identities and lives. As someone mentioned at a subcommittee meeting last week, LGBTQIA+ folx are NOT problems to be solved. Vote NO on HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Kelly Plumber []
CON
We can only wonder if there is any bottom to the hatred and neglect the IA GOP and governor can inflict upon the residents of this once great state. We sink lower in every measurable category while they are in office, provable by the simplest Google click. Harassing anyone different, while ignoring rampant ag pollution, stealing public tax monies for indoctrinating voucher schools, lowering educational standards by diminishing state funding and retracting already bereft resources for districts. AND YET, you still find time to persecute anyone different, whether it be race, gender, because your ignorance can't help but present as illogical fear. Quit pandering to the worst people in your districts and start conversations with the brightest... YOU WORK FOR US... ALL OF US.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I grew up in an Iowa that was inclusive and welcoming and I wish everyone in the legislature wanted that same experience for all Iowans. This is a terrifying bill that would make Iowa an unsafe place for people who just want to live their lives and make something of themselves. There is no such thing as separate but equal. The governor's attempt to make that claim is hurtful to generations of Iowans who have fought for their rights. To advance this bill during Black History Month and make attacks on another disenfranchised group is so incredibly arrogant, shameful, and cruel. I hope legislators will stand up for Iowans and stop this bill as it does not represent our communities or the wishes of Iowa taxpayers.
02-12-2024
Megan [One Iowa]
CON
This is an extremely dangerous bill that puts the lives of Iowans in danger, especially children. Why does the government of Iowa need to know and why do you care about someones sex? That should be between themselves and their physician. This bill is going to continue to push Iowans out of Iowa, not keeping them here. This bill undermines everything that our government is supposed to stand for, which is a right to choose and freedom to be who we want. I dont want to live in communist Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Why does the legislature think it has to get into the business of defining sex. Feels like government overreach.People who want to change their sex do not do that lightly, and your wanting to force them into staying the same as birth or into disability status just feels meanspirited. There are more important things for you to focus on.
02-12-2024
Nick Oswald []
CON
I am AGAINST this bill. The trans community in Iowa just want to be left alone to live their lives as their authentic selves. This is a huge overreach by the Governor who claims to be for limited government. Stop wasting our taxpayer dollars on discrimination against our LGBTQIA+ community and start using them on things that will actually HELP Iowans!
02-12-2024
Terri Gordy [Self]
CON
No matter how much you all want to "erase" LBGTQ+ people from Iowa, they are NOT just going to go away because of some law. My transgender stepdaughter isn't going to stop her medical treatments because of your discriminatory law. She will continue to look like a male, the sex she was assigned at birth, but she will be female. As far as "outing" her by putting her new gender on her driver's license, that is PRIVATE information that she should decide when to share and with whom. Kim Reynolds and those who support her are overstepping their bounds and for NO GOOD REASON. Back off and find something of substance that is worth fighting for like ways to prevent our children from dying by gun violence.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
As a point of order, "is developed" would seem to preclude all ostensible males as being neither male nor female prior to puberty. Previous to this point in time, "males" as intended to be targeted, aren't developed to do that.
02-12-2024
Tamara Haught []
CON
I strongly urge you to vote NO on HF 2389, this bill is unnecessary. There is nothing more stigmatizing or dangerous than state sponsored hate, ignorance, and discrimination. Leave the transgender community alone, there is NO reason to single them out except for hate. Bills like this put people of trans experience in a greater harm of harm and violence, they do not need an increased risk of either.
02-12-2024
Brian Bruening []
CON
This bill is another example of legislation trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist. Not only does it target transgender Iowans specifically, but it does nothing to protect women or children or address the real needs of any of these communities. It works to scapegoat already marginalized people and create further divisions in our state for political gain. I am strongly against this bill and encourage the committee to vote against bringing it to the floor.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Governor Reynolds I'm 100% behind you in this
02-12-2024
Heidi Cranston []
PRO
I support the Governors effort to define gender in line with natural law and biblical truth. I appreciate Governor Reynolds. She has done so much to preserve our liberty. To make and keep Iowa a state where everyone can prosper and thrive.
02-12-2024
Meredith Stanbrough []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill and urge you to vote against it. Please stop legislating hate and get back to working to help all Iowans. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain sounds like a joke after these last couple sessions.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
This is an issue of truth, science, and rights. The bill is providing a scientific and truthful description of sex and genderrelated terms, and if we cannot uphold that basic truth, we have nothing left to stand on. Also, without those clear definitions, the most precious and vulnerable segment of our society, our girls, will be at greater risk for safety than ever and will have lost all respect from society for who they are and the vital role they play in society. We need to have a proper definition of gender terms and hold the line on distinctions.
02-12-2024
Gloria Villanueva []
PRO
I support HF 2388. Please pass this bill. Science support 2 genders!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
God created male & female. Praying for our leaders as they stand for truth & right! May the Lord bless you for doing what is right!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support the governers bill to define the gender related terms.
02-12-2024
Pastor Matthew Majewski []
PRO
I absolutely approve of the Governors bill bringing common sense, scientifically based definition to the gender debate. For far to0 long, our society has allowed imagination and sexual obsession to control the debate on these issues. This obsession with sexual variation is nothing more than perversion and leads to selfish, destructive, and violent behaviors. It is time for our culture to remember that we are created by God and defined by His creative power and authority. Let this be a call to submit to God's word and power.
02-12-2024
Jeff Ferguson []
PRO
Governor Reynolds and our elected officials, We must continue this path to properly defining the God given identities for men and women, boys and girls!
02-12-2024
Ken Hanson []
CON
Please oppose this bill. It makes the lives of trans people more dangerous as it forces them to be outed.It also causes harm to same sex couples raising children. This flies in the face of Iowa's history of being a leader in civil rights. Let people live their lives as the Iowa State motto says "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain."
02-12-2024
Ben Linville [Independent Bible Church]
PRO
I am very much in favor of the legislature passing HF2389. The definitions of gender are not up for debate and should be officially recognized to avoid those who have an agenda which does not acknowledge common sense. Please pass HF2389
02-12-2024
Peter Schaefer []
PRO
I want to commend our Governor for taking a stand on gender. I worry about my grandchildren if the gender issues arent resolved. Please stay strong and stick to your guns. Our Governor is doing a Great job! Thank you!
02-12-2024
Tanya Street [None]
CON
I absolutely despise this bill. Why do these people responsible for this bill have to constantly attack the people in our communities? Its bad enough that the people responsible for this carry so much hate in their hearts. Why? The only reason they would pick on an already vulnerable community is because the LGBTQ+ community exists. Nothing else.Stop wasting our taxpayer money on your prejudices, your own personal problems, and your own personal vengeance on people in our state, and start doing something positive for a change. Heres an idea, work to fund our PUBLIC schools!!!
02-12-2024
Mary Long [English Valley Transport]
PRO
I agree with this bill.
02-12-2024
Robert [Robert Mohr]
PRO
Vote in favor of the governors bill. Hd 2389. What a sad time in history that we have to even have this discussion
02-12-2024
Callie Bierman [--None--]
CON
Stop attacking me and good lifelong Iowans like me!I was not even sure I was transgender until I was in my 60s, and now I have to deal with the ignorance and prejudice this bill intends? It's pure insolence, and I'm ready to take my residence, and my retirement money, elsewhere if this legislation goes through.
02-12-2024
Zoie Stanbrough []
CON
VOTE NO!!! There is absolutely no need for a bill so incredibly hateful. If youre actually pro life, then do your job and take care of your people. I have several family members who have been lifelong republicansuntil now. You are pushing your own supporters far away from you and causing them to vote democrat for the first time in their lives. If you pass these bills, people will die. Blood will be on your hands. We will never sit back and be quiet over this. Do what you know is right and VOTE NO!
02-12-2024
Susan Lekson [Myself ]
CON
This is a very harmful bill. Discrimination in a terrible way. Transgender people and children deserve Love and respect and not More Discrimination. Please do not harm people and children in This way. Vote no for HF2389 (formerly HSB 649).To erase people because they are different is not about love its about hate. To me Hate is a fourletter word. Lets show the world our state is a loving state.
02-12-2024
Tyler Henderson []
PRO
I support Governor Reynolds' Bill HF2389. Please vote YES on this bill.
02-12-2024
Barbara and Jim Dale []
CON
We deplore such efforts to diminish, disparage and discriminate against any human.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
This is a completely unnecessary bill that would only serve to fuel further scrutiny and discrimination against already marginalized individuals. It is appalling that this is what our politicians in Iowa are focused on.
02-12-2024
Gwyn Bertocki [self]
CON
I loudly OPPOSE this bill, since no one should decide for you if you are male or femaleor nonbinary, which is a legitimate thing to be. Only you know you, and biologists agree that there is a spectrum for gender, not just man or woman. This is nothing short of discrimination, of othering human beings, of labeling them according to the limited views of those who do not understand and want to keep things "convenient." This bill does not protect health and safetyit puts some people right in the crosshairs. And if someone has gone through deep selfsearching and detailed medical guidance and then suffers surgery to become outside who they are inside, who are you to tell them they are not that person, that they must follow now completely inappropriate labels, leaving them stranded in limbo? No one can live like thatno one should live like that. This bill is nothing but fear and lack of understanding. It's pinning a pink triangle on people before sending them to be slaughtered. I am ashamed to be an Iowan when these thinly veiled bills of tyranny are being proposed. We should be united, not divided. Stop hurting peoplevote NO.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
This bill doesnt make sense. Intersex people are born at the same rate as red heads. Someone who is intersex at birth could have no, one, or multiple sexual organs. There is scientifically more than two sexes. Additionally, this bill is unconstitutional.
02-12-2024
Amy Saylor []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. This law is seeking a solution to a problem that doesnt exist. There is no reason the government needs to define the biological sex a person is, especially on official documents. We are human beings first and foremost and this law seeks to discriminate like putting a yellow star on Jewish people during the holocaust. This law is not common sense and Governor Reynolds does NOT speak for all Iowans on this or any other matter.
02-12-2024
Hannah Rapson []
CON
Safety is a right of all people. Putting transpeople in the way of harm to "protect" those who meet the traditionally defined heteronormative gender definitions is not a right of the government. We are projecting harm where there simply is none. Bathrooms are bathrooms. People are people. There is nothing wrong with identifying with your birth gender. And there is nothing wrong with not identifying with your birth gender. We are simply human. As we evolve, in race, culture and diversity of all kinds, we are tasked with developing laws that protect ALL people. The bill proposed is a familiar and unfortunate step backward. We have the ability to think outside the box, to reach across the aisle, to discuss and address concerns with simple rational, inclusive solutions (such as genderneutral bathrooms for all people), that do not dehumanize or put anyone's life at risk. VOTE NO don't legislate hate.
02-12-2024
Megan Newell [Dorsey & Whitney LLP]
CON
This bill is a gross injustice being forced upon us. It is discriminatory, unnecessary and meant to isolate certain individuals. This bill serves no other purpose than to discriminate against differences. Not only will this bill erase peoples fundamental right to self identify, it will also greatly affect our LGBTQ+ community. This community is not going away EVER and we deserve better than this. Kim Reynolds is adamantly trying to erase LGBTQ+ Iowans rights and privileges as human beings by defining unnecessary terms in our laws. STOP THIS NONSENSICAL BILL
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Laws should reflect reality, not some pretend status.
02-12-2024
Drew Kelley []
CON
I am writing in opposition of this bill. This proposed legislation does not solve or address any actual problems with Iowa. Instead it unnecessarily creates additional costs and bureaucracy to our tax payers, while illegally infringing upon the civil liberties and right to privacy of a minority population.It is reprehensible that our elected legislators would waste their time and our tax dollars on a needless and meanspirited bill.
02-12-2024
Lindsey Ellickson [NA]
CON
I am the friend of many trans people who call Iowa their home, I love people who are trans, and not a single one of them have ever made me feel uncomfortable.It's really disheartening to see, while there are people out in Iowa struggling to make ends meet, struggling to survive and get food, that my Governor, and my state government continues to focus their efforts at limiting the freedom of people who just want to exist. I am against this bill. This bill is a bill in search of a problem that does not exist, and will hurt people I love in doing so.
02-12-2024
Karen Logan [Iabbv]
PRO
I support the Governor on this! These terms are all we need to define gender! Thank you Governor for recognizing this!
02-12-2024
Kristin Fairholm []
CON
I urge you to vote NO on HF2389. This discriminatory legislation not only harms trans Iowans but also targets samesex parents and their children. By rigidly defining "mother" and "father" based on sex assigned at birth, it creates unnecessary complications for families. Additionally, the bill's provisions on birth certificates and driver's licenses force transgender individuals to out themselves in everyday situations, risking their safety and privacy. Moreover, it opens the door to potential discrimination in restrooms, violates federal laws like the Violence Against Women Act, and erases nonbinary individuals from legal recognition.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Barring the negative impacts this bill will have on transgender people, a government seeking to codify and regulate people's bodies on a personal level and intervene in medical outcomes is engaged in a serious overreach and is infringing on the rights of Americans.Government officials and representatives are elected to manage public sector affairs, not intervene and regulate the personal identification and identity of citizens.Forcing certain identification markers and ruling that there are only narrow, basic categories of existence fundamentally infringes on the rights of citizens to selfdefine, selfexpress, speak and act freely. Regardless of one's personal beliefs, it should not be the purview of the government to rule who is and isn't male, female, or otherwise.Mandatory labeling of trans people is not only an infringement against their rights, but against the rights of everyone who doesn't wish to be medically controlled or defined by elected officials.The attempted redefinition of 'equal' is also vague and problematic. All people, transgender or not, deserve equality and equity under law. I urge those present to reject this bill.
02-12-2024
Diane Pierce []
CON
I am a Christian and have a transgender son. I believe God made him just the way he is so that he can help others deal with the hate and misinformation about Jesus not loving them. This is not true!! God makes no mistakes!! Just because you do not understand someone is no reason to wipe them out of existence. I thank God that my son no longer lives in this State. Please do not let this bill go forward!!
02-12-2024
Nicholas M. Krohn [N/A]
PRO
I am in support of clarifying male, female, man, woman, boy, girl, father, mother. It is logical and speaks to what someone biologically is, regardless of what they say they are or feel that they are. Allowing any and every definition leads to confusion and conflict, such as dealing with athletics, bathrooms, account verification over the phone, and other such things. We need to uphold standards of what is and is not a male or a female.
02-12-2024
Megan Derhammer Capek []
CON
This and the other bills that have been rushed through this month are attempted violence against the LGBTQ community. This bill is an active campaign to erase Trans and queer individuals. Please, stop the harm. Use your power and influence to vote NO on HSB649. You can make a difference in the lives of your constituents. Do good for our state instead of wasting energy micromanaging the lives of lovely amazing individuals. Stop the violence, you have the power to vote NO. Please, protect LGBTQ Iowans.
02-12-2024
John Jennison [Private Citizen]
PRO
I support the Governer's bill HF 2389
02-12-2024
Glen Villanueva []
PRO
I support this bill and ask that it be passed immediately.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I'm the mother of a teenager who identifies as transgender. What purpose, other than trying to shame and degrade, does this bill really serve? Trans rights are human rights, and all human citizens of Iowa (and the United States of America) have the inherent right to live lives with dignity and privacy. Bills like this are based on hate and hate has no place in our laws.
02-12-2024
Alicia & David Claypool [ ]
CON
Please oppose HF 2389 and any bill that contains "separate but equal" provisions. Our nation determined 70 years ago that this is wrong! Bringing back separate but equal would be a step backwards towards legalizing discrimination. Let's focus on creating a state where all are welcome and equality under the law is a top priority.As grandparents of 7, we, and their parents, teach them to respect all people and to treat others the way they would want to be treated. Seems like good advice for Iowa lawmakers and the Governor, too. Even if we don't understand everything about each other, we need to treat one another with dignity and respect, basic values that must be included in Iowa law.Quit picking on transgender persons which only makes our state look petty and hateful. Do not impose your religious beliefs on us because our religion values trans people and fully welcomes them into the life and sacraments of our church. Focus instead on solving real problems affecting all of us: clean water, wellfunded public schools that serve all students, protecting seniors and the disabled who depend on quality nursing home care, affordable, accessible child care, and reproductive freedom for Iowans who deserve to live their lives without government interference into our most private lives. Pls oppose this and similar bills.
02-12-2024
Bri [NA]
CON
This bill does not provide better protections or accommodations for Iowans. I read the bill and to summarize: the authors would like there to be legal language to establish additional systematic transphobia, bigotry and harm in Iowa law. They have decided they are capable of redefining science for the state of Iowa, as long as it is convenient to their cause. They would like to try and erase entire populations with legal jargon that they hope will be confusing and inaccessible to their constituents. This bill was solely created to discriminate and continue a campaign of real and direct harm for trans Iowans and to justify that direct harm by building it into state law. This bill is transparently hateful and bigoted.
02-12-2024
Sarah [N/a]
CON
Vote NO!!! This is out of control and unnecessary bill targeted at LGBTQ, trying to make their lives even more difficult. It is a completely unnecessary thing to vote on. Please, have some common sense and Vote NO. A better use of your time would be to write legislation that keeps our schools safer from guns!!
02-12-2024
The Right Reverend Betsey Monnot [Episcopal Diocese of Iowa]
CON
I comment as the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa, a faith leader in this state. I oppose this bill in no uncertain terms. This legislation is an unscientific and inhumane attempt to punish transgender, intersex, and gender nonbinary people for wanting to live the lives that God created them to live. Every human being is created in the image of God, and deserves to be treated with the dignity and respect that is due to God's image. This law would create a second class of humanity, and even acknowledges that in the statement on line 16: "Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal," which would be unnecessary to include in the law if it were actually true. History and settled law tells us that there is no such thing as "separate but equal," and it is astonishing that this legislation would attempt to change that. This law also lacks any background in the current scientific understanding of gender, gender identity, and gender expression, which shows us that there's no true binary in biological sex despite the attempt that this law makes to define it that way. As a Christian leader, I urge you to defeat this legislation in the name of the God who created all humanity and loves each individual uniquely, including our transgender, intersex, and nonbinary siblings.
02-12-2024
Sheila Johnson [Self]
CON
Passing this legislation will hurt people I love and will help absolutely nobody. Vote no
02-12-2024
Kay Switzer [Self]
CON
I am in opposition to this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Bible Baptist Church, Glenwood]
PRO
Thank you, Governor Reynolds, for standing for truth and against confusion
02-12-2024
Mechelle Lehman []
CON
We, as the people of this state, do not need discriminatory laws that could hurt the future of any citizens.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
This bill will solidify into law what we people have known for centuries. These definitions are basic for a society to function properly, to remove them would cause more confusion. The opposition are fighting against the laws of nature and will never prevail. God is the creator and designer of these laws and no man will undo them. Thank you
02-12-2024
Hannah Miller []
PRO
I support the Governor and all she is doing for bill HF2389
02-12-2024
Patricia Shipley []
CON
This is an unnecessary piece of legislation. It is meanspirited and does not solve any significant issue in Iowa. It is not within the legislative or Executive branches authority nor right to redefine gender.
02-12-2024
Joe Dolack [Self]
CON
"separate accommodations are not inherently unequal"
02-12-2024
Kate Davies []
CON
This bill is discriminatory and harmful. In Iowa, there are children starving, public schools losing funding & staff, families with no place to call home, people with no access to healthcare or even basic necessities, school shootings, and so many other issues that are actively harming Iowans daily. And yet, we are choosing to spend time and money debating this bill that has no positive impact on anyone except for clout among politicians. Instead of using the power & resources to minimize any small bit of the daily harm Iowans are experiencing, we are adding to the harm. We are erasing peoples identities and devaluing them as humans & family units. I am begging anyone who will listen to stop this bill, and any and all other bills targeting the LGBTQ+ community, and focus on any one of the very real dangers Iowans are facing right now.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please stop your obsession with sex. It is embarrassing. There are more important things to focus on, and transgender people have a right to live their lives in peace. Jesus said to love your neighbor not target him.
02-12-2024
Jim Bunton []
CON
Please allow transgender people to express their identity during a time when Iowans want to attract people to stay in Iowa. This bill, if enacted, will make Iowa not friendly to so many.
02-12-2024
Ashley Ayres []
CON
You are losing so many Republican votes if you put this through. Its heartless and hateful. You have a responsibility to protect the people that live here in this state. There are SO many more important things to be taking care of. Do better.
02-12-2024
Gloriela Danielson []
PRO
Nobody can change the way God has created them...male and female .. nothing in between or backward.otherwise is confusion and God is not the author of confusion. Everything He created is perfect.
02-12-2024
Amanda [Self]
CON
This isn't a common since Bill that Governor Reynolds is proposing. It is another hate bill towards the TRANS community. If people who support this bill would get to know some transgender people they would also understand while people in Iowa Don't support this. As a transgender human living in Iowa my whole life, Please vote NO for this hateful bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Concerning gender and identity, there are ONLY 2 genders just as God created them at the beginning in Book of Genesis! I urge our governor to NOT cave to political correctness and simply vote to defeat any attempt to define human genders in some nonsensical way. Common sense from the beginning of time has clearly demonstrated that there always have been 2 genders male and female only!
02-12-2024
Kristine Davis [Peoples Church UU]
CON
I oppose this bill. It is unnecessary and hurtful. As a retired nurse practitioner, I have some experience with the transgendered population. The fear of men transitioning to women attacking women in bathrooms is unfounded. Men taking testosterone blockers are not thinking about raping women.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Im against this bill and the attempt to further punish people who are just trying to be themselves.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill strips people of their human rights and rights to exist. STOP the hate, discrimination and cruelty, Kim Reynolds.
02-12-2024
Amy Adams [self/personal]
CON
I am opposed to HF 2389. This discriminatory bill is another way to further marginalize our LGBTQ friends, neighbors, and family members. Instead of focusing on issues to help Iowans, we continue to see ongoing attacks against LGBTQ+ Iowans and their families. This bill would legalize blatant discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in Iowa, eliminating recognition of transgender and nonbinary citizens from state laws. Additionally, it would create obstacles for samesex parents seeking to obtain birth certificates for their children. All Iowans deserve dignity and respect, this bill does nothing to benefit anyone.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This law does not represent the views of Iowans. It will not help any Iowans. There is no benefit to enshrining a false definition of equality into our laws. This bill is hurtful to LGBTQ Iowans. It needlessly harms them and makes their lives more difficult with no gain and no legal reasoning. This bill will should not pass.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I was born in Iowa, but no longer live here. Conservatives have historically believed in states' rights. So do I, which is why I now live in a protrans state.I have not yet updated my birth certificate to reflect my gender identity, but planned to this year. This bill, if passed, would forever mark me as trans on documents visible by public officials, employers, and anyone running background checks. This is as bad or worse than being considered male in the eyes of Iowa's laws, and now I am disproportionately susceptible to employment discrimination and harassment for the foreseeable future. We just want the same freedoms and to be treated like everyone else makes this impossible. I had no choice over where I was born, and I cannot vote for or against Iowa's leadership making the current decisions in the place. If this bill passes, decisions will apply to me even though I have no way to participate in your democratic process.If conservatives genuinely believe in states' rights, they should vote "no." This is not my war, and I should have the right to follow the vital records procedures of the state in which I currently live.
02-12-2024
02-12-2024
Anastasia kemnitzer
CON
Fuck this bill. You dont want to protect anyone with this bill, it wont keep women and men safe in prison, men and women get raped in prison regardless of being separate and having designated bathrooms so this bill is clearly just to discriminate against the lgbtqa community. The government has no purpose of knowing your sex or gender on any paperwork other than to discriminate against you. The main issue with this bill is it doesnt account for the percentage of our population that is born intersex. This bill is requiring people be either male or female on paper well intersex is born with both genitalia so they cant be one or the other. If youre gonna put the definition of sex on a bill at least use it correctly because there are more than 2 sexes do your research. Sad when government has to be reminded to mind its own goddamn business. If you wanna know someones gender you can ask them and politely accept whatever answer they give you but there is no reason to require someone to put what sex they are on any paperwork unless its with their doctors paperwork, which already exists. People already well who needs to know what genitalia they have, so this bill is entirely unnecessary and keeps lgbtqa citizens from feeling safe and recognized as whatever gender they identify with.
02-12-2024
Lindsey Taylor []
CON
If passed, this bill will be many people's 13th reason why. Either why they take their own lives, or why they chose to leave this state behind. As a mother of a trans child, and former partner of a trans woman, I see the hate behind this bill. This is a way to legalize discrimination against trans individuals. I will not raise my children in a state that believes trans individuals are less than. I will leave this state behind, as will many other LGBTQ and Allys I know. This bill is AWFUL for Iowa. It is BAD for citizens, it is BAD for the economy, it is BAD for press. Iowa is better than this. Please listen to ALL your constituents and Vote NO to this bill as well as all future antiTrans bills. No one wants to live in a state that is so full of hatred.
02-12-2024
Kira Murrill [Self]
CON
The phrase "separate but equal", according to Cornell Law School, "allowed the use of segregation laws by states and local governments" when it was used in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). The Supreme Court on May 17, 1965, however, said that "separate is not equal". This was during Brown v. Board of Education when separate schools for Black and white children were deemed by the Court to be "inherently unequal". This of course denounced the discriminatory ruling of Plessy v. Ferguson that took place nearly 70 years prior. Now, Plessy v. Ferguson was not a question of education but train cars. Am I wrong to assume that both a means for people to learn and a means for people to travel are accommodations? If the Supreme Court ruled in 1965 that "separate is not equal", that it is "inherently unequal", why does the Iowa House of Representatives say now, almost 60 years later, in HF 2389 that "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal"? Perhaps the House Committee on Education, and any Representatives who choose not to oppose this bill, align more with the Supreme Court justices of 1896 who went against the wellbeing of society in order to benefit a select few. If that is Iowas goal, then it will be made clear to us citizens if you move forward with HF 2389. However, if Iowas goal is to increase our quality of life and safety by denying discriminatory legislation, then we will see you stop this bill.
02-12-2024
Muriel Pemble []
CON
I strenously oppose this bill because it is unnecessary and discriminatory in the most disturbing way. In answer to the governor's justification: "...spaces where womens health, safety, and privacy are being threatened like domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers. The bill allows the law to recognize biological differences while forbidding unfair discrimination"how would documents listing the persons sex at birth and their sex following treatment, offer such protection? Will EVERYONE be required to show their license to prove their gender before coming into domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and similar spaces? If, then, you are a transgender woman, will you be denied entrance? (It doesn't seem to matter if the person is a transgender man because if you don't have a penis from birth, you're apparently not a threat to womenjust as you're not a threat to cisgender men and are not barred from competing in athletics with them.) I am a cisgender woman, and I do NOT need to be protected from transgender individuals. This bill implies that women are definitely the "weaker sex" and is an insult to ALL women. If we allow transgender people to be treated as secondclass citizens, who is next?
02-12-2024
Kathy Hay [NA]
CON
Iowa used to be a welcoming place to live. Bills like HF 2389 are the opposite of welcoming. Discrimination of any kind is a step towards creating a route to dehumanize people. History is clear. Nazi Germany started with a simple Star of David, moved to separate housing and communities, and then to concentration camps, and genocide. Vote NO on HF 2389. Discrimination has no place in our state and country!
02-12-2024
Edward Hee [private citizen]
PRO
This is very well thoughtout and properly stated legislation. It is also, sadly, very needed in the 21st century American societal culture. We are now forced to clearly state things that have been wellknown and understood across all of humanity for millennia, due to a movement of destructive and hateful fringe groups that would deny the reality of scientifically proven human reproductive biology. Very well. The legislature of this state must stand up for what is true, right, and real. Pass this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I don't understand why this is necessary aside from to enable discrimination. Additionally, this bill will create problems for samesex parents, jeopardize federal funding for domestic violence shelters, and enshrine "separate but equal" into Iowa law. Please vote against this bill, and protect the privacy of all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Why are you wasting taxpayer dollars scheming up ways to make the lives of trans Iowans more difficult? Shame on you. Mind your own business.
02-12-2024
Anita Christensen []
CON
I am opposed to HF2389. The right to freedom and liberty applies to all Iowans regardless of the personal beliefs of others.
02-12-2024
Denise O'Brien []
CON
I stand in opposition to HF 2389 that would completely allow open discrimination against LGBTQ+ Iowans, and erase transgender and nonbinary Iowans from state code while also causing issues for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children.This is not the kind of bill that makes Iowa a welcoming and comfortable place to live. It is outrageous that it is even being considered.
02-12-2024
Keith Gomez []
PRO
Im for the fh2389. We cant continue down the road of confusion about the sexes.
02-12-2024
Alicia Appel []
PRO
Thank you Governor for supporting the truth and science in how our bodies are designed with proper pronouns.
02-12-2024
Kurt Andrews [ ]
PRO
I stand with this bill to properly, scientifically define a man and woman. A persons DNA can not be changed. People may mutilate their bodies with surgeries and spend the rest of their lives on medications to keep their bodies from rejecting it. Those surgeries can never change what God made them. Please pass this bill to stop the insanity.
02-12-2024
Marie Herring []
CON
Laws being implemented here in Iowa continue to make us a less welcoming state. This is making it increasingly difficult to attract talent to work here, challenging businesses and business owners. Iowa's public lands and recreational outlets...are degradated due to contaminated waters. Attracting families to Iowa is a challenge due to lowered educational standards and a healthcare system in decline.For Iowa and Iowans to thrive, we must abandon bills like this one.
02-12-2024
Joan Crowe []
CON
Stop making Iowans lives miserable.
02-12-2024
Tristan Bracewell []
CON
Vote no on this legislation. Despite claims to the contrary, this is yet another attempt to ensure conformity and control in higher education. The state has no business enforcing regressive and reactionary policies designed to stifle and silence minority voices on Iowa campuses.
02-12-2024
Matthew Lewin []
CON
I am strongly against HF 2389. This bill does not solve anything, and only serves to worsen the lives of transgender Iowans. It is not the job of the government to police peoples genders, and this obsession with Iowans biological sex is both morally gross and a huge waste of taxpayer money.
02-12-2024
Luke Schut []
CON
This bill addressing no existing problem in the state and seems to do nothing but single out trans people. Please vote no so that we dont waste a bunch of tax dollars in legal battles trying to defend this bizarre attempt at trans segregation.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [No organization]
CON
Please stop this draconian legislation. Let's focus valuable time, money, and energy on something other than concern about whether the genitals people were born with align with the clothing/hair/other markers of gender they present to the world. Equal rights should be maintained for ALL Iowans.
02-12-2024
Margot Tollefson/Conard [Democratic Action Network]
CON
While beliefs about a person's sense of what gender they are vary quite a bit, the Democratic Party in Iowa accepts that for some people, the gender that they sense themselves as being is different from the sex their body is. This is not considered a mental illness rather as part of who the person is as a person. Because some people do have this property and through no fault of their own, they deserve the same rights as others who were born with a sex that matches the sense of their gender.Please support HF 2389.Sincerely,Margot Tollefson/Conard
02-12-2024
JoAnna Springsteen []
CON
I oppose this bill. "Separate but equal" was outlawed with Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. It was further prohibited in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This bill has no intention of treating people equally. In fact, it does the exact opposite. Trans people are humans and have the same civil rights as the rest of us. There is no logical or legal reason to take away the rights of Trans people. And let's be clear here: this bill is all about taking rights away from people.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Laws should not take away civil and human rights and this Legislature needs to focus on helping Iowans. Right now it appears to be doing everything it can to force people to move out of Iowa brain drain for sure. Stop targeting people who are different from you and be more inclusive. Stop being so hateful.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
Please vote no on this bill. If we're going to make denoting gender and sex this complicated, let's just remove sex markers from IDs altogether, they are not very useful anymore and many people wear varieties of clothing and hairstyles across all genders.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Marion Avenue Baptist church ]
PRO
I agree with Governor Reynolds concerning this bill. God only created male and female and that is how we should refer to each other. Just because someone may want to be the opposite sex doesn't make them that. Please vote in support of this bill
02-12-2024
Linda Krypel []
CON
This bill is based on fear and hate. You might as well say out loud you support genocide for any human being that is "different" and doesn't conform to your personal beliefs.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I urge you to please vote AGAINST this bill. Everyone should be able to freely live in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. This bill segregates these individuals and does not treat them fairly. People need to be treated as a person/individual not by what sex they were assigned at birth.
02-12-2024
Elizabeth Willem []
CON
This bill is hateful and unnecessary. Spend time on meaningful legislation that will improve the lives of all Iowans such as adequately funding education and mental health.
02-12-2024
Teresa Paulson [Self]
CON
Do not approve this bill as I feel it breaks all understanding of individual rights as human beings. In my opinion and experience, the people this bill will affect are not looking to create havoc with other people, but if we LABEL them it most certainly will cause havoc to happen to them due to some in the community feeling they can judge them. Who are we to determine if someone who doesn't identify with their birth sex are a danger OR should be labeled? For the governor and some legislators to claim they are Christian and this goes against the Bible, I find this judgement appalling. I am a Christian and I believe I should not judge anyone since I myself am not perfect. I am heterosexual and admit I don't understand all the various identifying names or what they mean. But the people this bill will harm are humans and we need to allow them to live their lives as they seem fit. The next step would be to sew a colored patch on their clothes so everyone who sees them knows how they identify. Are we going to start requiring people who dye their hair to put their original hair color on their driver's licenses next? What business is it of ours to know these details...and I don't buy the excuses/reasons that the public (or jails or public places) have a right to know. Do we identify people with HIV in those settings? This is one more step of government interfering with individual rights. Please vote NO!!!!
02-12-2024
Diana Lee Wright [Retired]
CON
This bill is offensive and denies basic rights to so many people. I do not see how it serves the public good in any way.
02-12-2024
Gianfranco Berardi [Gianfranco Berardi]
CON
Proponents of this bill argue that it is "common sense" and that opponents "have lost their mind." But in a world in which transgender people have existed for many centuries, in which modern cultures still revere them rather than vilify, in which multiple medical professional organizations not only acknowledge their existence as valid but have also acknowledged that genderaffirming care is lifesaving, in which we have already had a major worldaltering society who decided it was important to mark homosexuals and transgender people so that it is easier to separate them from the rest of society and all of the deadly consequences of having done so, I have a lot of questions for the people supporting this bill regarding their own senses.The Republicans pushing this and similar legislation are bullying a group of people who are already suffering the most in society. What kind of common sense insists on pushing a law into existence that we know is wrongheaded, marginalizes the already marginalized, and is expected to involve Iowa taxpayers in large legal fees when this of course gets challenged in the courts? I know the Republicans think they won't suffer consequences and don't have to pay for it while pretending to their supporters that they are doing the right thing. But it is a waste of time, a waste of money, and a wasted opportunity to use your power to improve the lives of Iowans rather than impoverish and ruin them.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am against this bill. This is a political bill, not a problem solving bill. This type of bill just spreads hate and makes people a target of that hate. Please be a leader and vote against this.Thank you
02-12-2024
michelle bechen []
CON
Stop attacking our lgbtq+ family and friends!
02-12-2024
Vicky L Brenner [Retired Teacher & Community Advocate]
CON
Vote NO on this bill which does nothing but persecute our fellow Iowans. This kind of hateful legislation targets a very small group of people to diminish their humanity, which is right out of the Nazi playbook. Apparently some folks haven't learned from history that an attack on one is an attack on us all. Iowans elected you to solve problems not create them.
02-12-2024
Teresa Baustian [citizen]
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill and I fear the direction that Iowa is taking with regard to transgender people. I am a student of history and an avid reader of both history and fiction from the period between the wars and the lead up to WWII and the Holocaust. That period,too, involved attaching identification of people by characteristics that the government (German,there) deemed relevant to the different treatment that they would pursue. HF 2389 lays the ground work for the different treatment with it's "separate but equal" terminology. Iowans don't know where this will end but this is the foreshadowing of something horrific. It must be stopped right now.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Separate but equal is not equal. Stop focusing on the dehumanizing of LGBTQA+ people and come up with some solutions to problems all Iowans face like AG pollution, education barriers, and access to healthcare.
02-12-2024
Alecia Weems [Cornerstone Baptist Church]
PRO
As a mother of 5 young ladies and a grandmother to one. I am totally for identifying male as male and female as female. I want to be able to take my girls in public and know when they use the bathroom that there will not be some pedafile that states they are female and uses the restroom and than takes advantage of me or them. Its a sad day in this country when we have to go to battle to protect the gender given at birth, just because people want to be know by something else. My dad always told me if it is not broke dont fix it. And being know as a female is an honor and a blessing to me and the fact that God gave me that opportunity at birth. I wouldnt change it for the world and I want my children to know that the sex they are assigned at birth is a blessing from God not something that should be looked at and allowed to change. Just because they think life is unfair. I think the issue with people posting biological gender on public documents is good as well. I dont think that it will cause any issues with people other than those that make it an issue. You were assigned that sex by God it should be labeled that way. I am in favor of this bill from Governor Reynolds and I praise the fact that she has the grit to take a stand for what is right and what the Bible specifically states is right. Thank you governor Reynolds
02-12-2024
Cate McEntaffer []
CON
This Bill will directly harm Iowans. If this bill is passed the state will be directly responsible for hurting hundreds of trans people. How can you claim to be fair and just, when you are stating things like this?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill erases the reality of our lives as trans people, especially as trans women, and leaves us vulnerable to more violence and abuse, which we already suffer at much higher rates than the general population. This bill ignores science and the experiences of trans women while hiding behind duplicitous language of protecting women. This bill would harm women, putting Iowa in violation of numerous federal laws while endangering the funding and support that many of the womens shelters and rape crisis centers it claims champion rely on. Please do not pass this bill. It is vile, and Iowa will never recover from the damage it will do to its communities.
02-12-2024
Anne Noonan []
CON
I am against this bill. Please vote NO. HF 2389
02-12-2024
Alec Pendry []
CON
All these laws and legislative proposals appear to show hatred by our governor and Republican legislators toward LGBTQ+ people. Is that true, or is it all just political?Either way, these actions make me less proud to be an Iowan. Alec Pendry Fort Dodge IA
02-12-2024
Antonio Montoya []
CON
This is a blatant attempt to codify hateful and discriminatory policies towards trans and gender non binary people throughout Iowa. The legislation is regressive and takes the state in the wrong direction. Iowa's future is being undermined by making it a less friendly and hospitable place for a diverse populace. It continues to set the stage for a mass exodus of college educated natives out of the state in search of more inclusive places to make homes. The communities and economies of Minnesota will be the only long term beneficiary of this law. Continuing to peddle in hate and reactionary policies costs Iowa its future, and will cost real lives of young Iowans who bear the brunt of the cost for policies like this. Real children, struggling to make sense of their identities while being denied representation and rights, will lose their lives as a result of this body of politics.
02-12-2024
Ben Millett []
CON
I strongly ask you to vote NO. This continues an attempt by the Republicans in the state to erase LGBTQ+ individuals. Equal actually does mean "same": "being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value". What of the people whose bodies do not develop the ability to produce ova or sperm? How are they to be identified? Who is going to do that identification? This is overreach and discriminatory.
02-12-2024
Rae Evemond [Art Therapy & Counseling Studio]
CON
I work as a mental health therapist here in Iowa, and am in strong opposition to this bill. This bill would actively, rapidly increase the potential for harm to the LGBTQ+ community in our state. Please vote against this bill.
02-12-2024
Kambridge Wainscott [Iowa Baptists For Biblical Values ]
PRO
As a young person, I support HF2389. Iowa needs to define these terms so doctors and health professionals can adequately and effectively help treat gender dysphoria as the mental health crisis that it is.
02-12-2024
Patricia Bowen [none]
CON
If equal does not mean the same or identical what does it mean? When asked, Heather Hora could not answer. I believe people putting forth bills should know what and why they are submitting bills to become law. There is heavy opposition to this bill , I am writing today to share my opposition as well.
02-12-2024
Natasha W []
PRO
Please uphold the biblical and biological meanings of the sexes. The confusion on this topic has become astounding, when it should be so simple. Iowa can and should lead the way in common sense.
02-12-2024
Steve Herwig DO,MBA []
CON
We live in a pluralistic society. It is with great sadness that I see Iowa legislators vilifying LGBTQ + people who already have a challengingexistence. Please end the antitrans legislation. These bills demonstrate that Iowa is not a welcoming place for all. This contributes to the loss of population which will impact our economy.The sheer volume of the bills introduced affecting LGBTQ+ are a demonstration that the members of the legislature are doing the work of others with so many companion bills introduced in other state legislatures.
02-12-2024
Jenna Supp-Montgomerie []
CON
As a mother, as an Iowan, and one who holds the glory of creation as a blessing, I urge you to stand strong AGAINST this hateful legislation. Targeting trans Iowans offers no help to any Iowan. In fact, it makes it harder than ever to live here, to parent here, to keep our children in the state as they grow. The nonsense that this protects womenonly spaces and womens safety is bogusmaking women out to be frail to propagate hate is an old technique that has never actually helped women. Please see Thai bill for what it isdiscriminatory and hateful.
02-12-2024
Teresa Mathews []
CON
I am against HF 2389. "Separate but equal" is never equal. No one deserves to experience discrimination. Equality under the law should be a priority in Iowa.Do better, make better choices that supports all citizens of IA.
02-12-2024
Ryan S []
PRO
I wholeheartedly support this bill.
02-12-2024
Emily june breffle []
CON
We, all of us, are together, not alone. Gender is an expression of being & this is a call to address all beings and welcome all into belonging. We are leaving behind us an era of segregation, separation, and us vs. them. We are actualizing the pivotal reality of unity. The stretch of this nation and our struggle for that which our dreams are made of. A rainbow of beautiful diversity. Not a prison of he or she, but a sacred holy life of we. We are together not alone. We are together, not alone.
02-12-2024
Cathy Talcott []
CON
It seems that Iowa nice has turned into Iowa fear and Iowa hate and Iowa condemnation. I think that people have a right to happiness and a right to be in charge of their own lives when theyre not hurting anyone. Let us resort to kindness and acceptance and let us all walk together.
02-12-2024
Taylor Toohill []
CON
I can't believe that we are living in the year 2024, and here we are trying to pass a "separate but equal" bill like it's 1896. The entire point of "separate but equal" being that you can legally separate a group of people from another under the promise of equality, but the intent of inequality. It begs the question of "what is the point of this?" If the two separate systems are actually equal, then why bother having the separation to begin with? Discrimination. It's discrimination. That's the point.Maybe you would've had a grand old time in the 1800s, but me and many of my friends and family would not have That's why we would prefer to keep those times in the uncomfortable chapters of our U.S. history textbooks.P.S. No matter how many times you say "Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal", it wont be magically willed into being true.
02-12-2024
Douglas Thoma [Douglas R Thoma]
CON
This bill is discriminatory and unnecessary. Stop the war on Iowa's LGBQT community.
02-12-2024
Kris Lindemann [CHAM]
CON
Bills like this are a waste of everyone's time. Using marginalized groups to score cheap political points ought to be beneath every single legislator. I urge every one in this chamber to examine their hearts and decide if this is the reason they got in to politics to police people's bodies and autonomy and if it was, I urge you to find a different line of work.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am the mother of a trans gender woman and I strongly oppose this bill. This is counter to everything Iowa stands for and Im incredibly disappointed by our legislators
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am wholeheartedly against this bill. It accomplishes absolutely nothing that will help make the lives of Iowans easier or helps to fulfill their right to liberty, as our state motto says!
02-12-2024
Kate Lyon [NA]
CON
This bill is an absurd attempt to redefine the word equal to spleen v Ferguson.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Please pass this. I want to live in a state that defines men as men and women as women.
02-12-2024
Gail Husmann []
CON
I am opposed to HF2389 because it takes away rights of transgender Iowans. There is no need for this bill as transgender people are no threat in any way to the public. Separate but equal is never equal. We have a transgender granddaughter and I want her rights to be the same as everyone else. Religious rights do not supersede civil rights. I am a Christian, but I do not believe this bill is anyway Christian.Thank you.
02-12-2024
Jackie Christerson-Knoepfler []
CON
HF2389 would allow open discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. As an Iowan, I find it appalling that the State would even consider discriminating against people who are our family members, our friends, our neighbors. Iowa is becoming so unwelcoming that its hard for me to consider inviting people to even visit, let alone encourage people to move their families here. We have so little to offer at this point a gutted public school system (to benefit private schools), legislators who say they are proparent when they are only proconservative, evangelical parents, legislators who want to ban books they find unacceptable regardless of what others think, they want to ban body autonomy. Now they want to be able to figuratively ban a group of people they dont understand by making it ok to discriminate against the LGBTQ+ community. Who and what is next?
02-12-2024
Michael Henning [Retired individual]
CON
This bill is a waste of time and money. It just promotes division in our State. We need to promote inclusion and Friendship!! This type of legislation does nothing positive for Iowa and encourages the flight of younger people from our State.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I wholeheartedly and prayerfully support the governor and her bill to clearly define sexes as male and female as God created us!
02-12-2024
Charity Brown [Marion Avenue Baptist]
PRO
We are so thankful for the governors strong stand in support of defining the Godgiven, distinctive differences between a male and female. We are praying much for the governor and so grateful for all those in support of this muchneeded bill! Pastor Joseph and Charity Brown, Washington, Iowa Marion Avenue Baptist Church
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
This is very important. Everyone needs to be accounted for as it is written in the Scriptures. It is very clear there are only two sexes, female and male.Thank you.
02-12-2024
Casey Middleswart []
CON
Vote No to HS 2389. This bill does nothing but harm an already marginalized group of Iowans without even attempting to understand the complexities of gender and gender fluidity. Gender fluidity is not a novel concept, nor is it a threat to Iowans. This notion that gender fluidity is a harmful woke concept further alienates people who struggle with their gender identity. This legislatures relentless attack against the LGBTQ+ community is nothing more than appeal to voters whos political ideology is motivated by hate, intolerance, and contempt for anyone who is different than them. Using the LGBTQ+ community as a scapegoat in order to advance your political careers is abhorrent.Let me make this clear to ALL Iowans: Kim Reynolds does not believe that transgenderism, homosexuality, gender fluidity, and the like are genuine threats to Iowans. Rather, she is playing on the natural human instinct to fear the unfamiliar in order to convince you that she is the only one willing to solving a problem that does not exist. For the legislators that support this bill: Quit playing politics and get back to work. OUR LIBERTIES WE PRIZE, OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN.Casey Middleswart
02-12-2024
Marilyn Christner [A good citizen of Iowa]
PRO
I support gladly and wholeheartedly Gov. Reynolds with this bill. It is Biblical that it is one man, one woman. She has my support.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Lets keep our state progressive and inclusive. This kind of Bill has no place in our states ideology.
02-12-2024
Sarah Bixler []
PRO
I believe God and His Word as He created each of us as either a male or a female. I will be praying for God to cause this measure to pass.
02-12-2024
Amanda Arthur-Struss [Iowa resident]
CON
Markings like this have always been discriminatory on minorities. This is just the latest version in along line of hate and control over others from Jewish stars to pink triangles. This bill is heading down a slippery slope. As a person in the medical field we have laws that make it that we cant share info like this. We, as society, show our driving licenses all the time. You are making people share information that is personal and private and I believe this bill against their rights. Stop this madness please and leave the trans community alone.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
Please vote down HF 2389. This bill seems to be very intrusive and highly discriminatory and unIowan.Thank you.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I SUPPORT Gov. Reynolds bill. Thank you Governor Reynolds.
02-12-2024
Laree Schouweiler [Driftless Yoga Center ]
CON
Bill HF2389 has no business have been written or up for debate. Trans right are human rights.. This bill is an act of hate and erasure for trans Iowans. Coming from Republicans who claim to believe in freedom for all, this bill wreaks of hate and hypocrisy. As a constituent, I implore you to you veto this bill.
02-12-2024
Taylor Bontrager [Marion Avenue Baptist Church]
PRO
Thank you Governor Reynolds for standing up for biblical gender! We stand with you!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please strike down this hateful and discriminatory bill,as the trans community continues to be targeted by the religious right of the Republican Party and with no real evidence of any fact to substantiate any wrong doing. This is just another attack on an already marginalized and targeted community. Not to mention being just another political stunt to pander to Republican base. We as a state should do better.
02-12-2024
Pastor Keeton Wainscott [Calvary Baptist Church ]
PRO
Matthew 19:4 KJV4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, The Bible is clear on the matter of sexuality and gender, and we too ought to speak clearly on this matter, agreeing with the God of heaven, rather than the gods of this world. I am in full support of defining these terms as the Scriptures express them. God created male and female. Gender and sexuality are determined by the true and living God if the Bible, not the whim of society. I, and the congregation I represent, back the governor in this matter, and pray the mouths of opposition are shut and silenced in their rebellion against the simply truth that...Genesis 1:27 KJV27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
02-12-2024
Dan Inselmann [The Human Race]
CON
You people are out of your minds if you plan to vote for this thing. Focus on some effing real problems for a change, yeah? All I ever hear from Republicans is indignant whining about homelessness or "crime in blue cities". Well, why not focus some of your weird energy on those problems, huh? Why are you constantly screwing with LGBTQ people? Fix real problems or do us all a favor and take each other out to the pasture.
02-12-2024
Susan Langan []
CON
I am writing to ask you to vote no to HF2389. This bill is a horrendous and should not even be considered. It is a bill that goes against our constitution. Doesnt our constitution say liberty and justice for all? We do not get to pick and choose which groups we allow civil rights according to our personal beliefs. Instead of using your faith and religion as an excuse to degrade and treat transgender folks as equals,maybe listen to the EXPERTS dealing with LGBTQ+ issues. Our state needs to be dealing with SO many more important issues. As an educator for 40 years, our schools need help with mental health issues and not just putting the crisis information on student IDs.Voting yes for this bill will only make things worse for many students and adults. If you really do care about ALL people of Iowa, you know this is true. Cant we focus on more important issues that are affecting our citizens? All these folks want to do is live their lives and be productive citizens. Please allow them to do this by voting no to HF2389.
02-12-2024
Kayla Loerzel [Iowa Baptist for Biblical Values]
PRO
I support this bill and you, Governor Reynolds.
02-12-2024
Rowen Wignall []
CON
Even as a trans person who has sadly grown accustomed to seeing the state I was born in constantly promote baseless antiLGBTQ legislation, this bill is especially frightening to me. Governor Reynolds claims that it would forbid unfair discrimination, but it will clearly enable exactly that. "Separate but equal" language should be something we learn about as a dire mistake in our nation's past, not a current day proposal targeting a tiny fraction of the population. Requiring transgender people to put both gender markers on documentation, even after going through the most difficult stages of transition, is pointless and cruel. The mere suggestion of somebody being transgender today is an invitation for harassment, and having it displayed like this bill wants will enable further harm against us. Our existence is challenging and taxing as is. We face an enormously disproportionate amount of harassment and violence for how few of us there really are. Watching one of the two viable political parties in the country vilify you as a perverted boogeyman to rally their voting base every single day is souldraining. This bill is not about "protecting women's spaces". It is merely the latest restriction placed on people like me who commit the crime of existing publicly as ourselves. It is unconscionable.
02-12-2024
Kristina Ehlers [Woman, Mother, Iowan]
CON
Having this bill go into law will only separate us more as humans. I do not believe we need to have the law decide how to treat people based on their sexual orientation. As a woman, I believe thar we should all be treated equally, regardless if we were assigned a different gender at birth. I do not need to be told who to call a male of female, or treat anyone differently than they way they wish to be treated. I researched to look for any incidents where others were put at risk, harrased, or assaulted by a person identifying as a gender other than what they were born with entering a gender specific facility. The only information I could find was the risk it posed to transgender humans by forcing them into an unforfortable situation where they don't belong. It also puts them at a high risk of being harassed, or worse, assaulted physically or sexually. For the rights of all humans living equally is to recognize that though we are all biologically different that we should be given the same rights as anyone else. There is no common sense in being separated and calling it not inherently unequal. Other person's discomfort with allowing other people to live as they identify in their own life is not more important the safety and future of every other person's lives. Please do not harm Iowans any further by this segregation.
02-12-2024
David J Jennings []
CON
As a concerned citizen and advocate for equality and human rights, I am writing to express my strong opposition to House File 2389, which pertains to the construction of terms related to sex in statutory contexts. While I understand the importance of clarity and consistency in legal language, I believe that this bill fails to uphold the fundamental values of inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all individuals, including those within the LGBTQ+ community.This bill's narrow definition of sex as solely biologically determined at birth disregards the lived experiences and identities of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals. By reinforcing binary understandings of gender and excluding those who do not fit within these categories, the bill undermines the rights and dignity of a significant portion of our population.Furthermore, the bill's provisions regarding the designation of sex on vital records and accommodations in various contexts could have harmful consequences for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals, including barriers to accessing affirming healthcare, education, and public facilities.I urge you to reconsider the implications of this bill and to instead prioritize policies that promote inclusivity, respect for diverse identities, and the protection of the rights and wellbeing of all members of our community. Let us strive to create a society where every individual, regardless of their gender identity or expression, can live with dignity, equality, and freedom from discrimination.
02-12-2024
Jesse Vroegh [Self]
CON
I would love to speak to all the law makers in Iowa, but I cannot attend tonight due to a medical procedure. I would appreciate to schedule a meeting with the legislators as a real life testimony as a transman. HF 2389 would be emotionally, physically, socially and mentally determinal to the the community. It is time that Iowa stop legislating hate laws against a community he/she/they may not agree with. We need to support, love, and help those in the community to be the best version of themselves. Iowa needs to progress into the 21st century as a leader in the United States against hating a population that is often misunderstood and undermined by personal beliefs and religion. HF 2389 is an example of discrimination and needs voted down. The most recent school incident and many suicides are examples and living proof that being judgemental affects the mental health of those who identify differently than the norm.
02-12-2024
Jackie Cordon []
CON
This bill is unnecessary and could potentially lead to discrimination. No one needs to know what sex you were assigned at birth. For one thing sex chromosomes are hugely complicated. A person can appear male but actually be female. So when they figure that out, a document telling that to the world violates their health privacy. And we do change birth certificates regularly. My adopted kids birth certificates are the only info out there on them. Their drivers license doesnt say they were called Bill Jones on their birth certificate. This is an overreach and violates privacy
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is harmful to the LBGTQ community and to women in general. This is unnecessary, harmful legislation that doesnt seem to be trying to solve any actual issues
02-12-2024
Delbert Longley []
PRO
Please support the Governors bill defining man, women, male, female, etc.Thank you.
02-12-2024
Melody Smith []
CON
I oppose HF 2389.Our liberties we prize and our rights we shall maintain.Stop trying to take away the liberties and rights of Iowans. Stop stigmatizing our citizens for being who they are.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Deason]
PRO
Pass this gender bill please!! Im with you! God bless !
02-12-2024
Elly Hofmaier []
CON
This bill is entirely unnecessary and harmful to an already marginalized community.
02-12-2024
Jude Cigrand [Self]
CON
I would appreciate the opportunity to speak.I am an older transgender man and think this bill is harmful and outdated.
02-12-2024
Dustin Brooks []
CON
This bill directly violates our nation's Declaration of Independence and the inalienable rights and freedoms spelled out in the Constitution. The Constitution which was written to protect Americans from tyranny and government control. This bill is an attempt by our State to exert control and violate an individual's freedom and liberties protected by that Constitution. It will immediately be challenged in court under those grounds, further wasting taxpayer money and our government's time.Ask yourselves, why does our State need to define sex? They don't. We don't need the government to police and control us. Is it to protect anybody? No. It's to force an ideology and belief upon others, which is a violation of the Iowa State Constitution. It is to marginalize and discriminate against a tiny group of people with which certain politicians don't agree with and, for some reason, feel the need to attack and harm. That is the opposite of the government protecting its people. This is the government weaponizing itself to target, hurt, and harm. What will happen next? Will divorced people need to have that listed on their Driver's License? Will those who have cheated on their spouse and committed adultery need to be marked publicly by the government? I think so, under the premises of this bill. I think many of those in favor of this bill would need to be marked and identified as I just referenced. You are opening up the doors to chaos. This nation and this state have operated for hundreds of years without any need to "define" male and female. This is ridiculous. It's a culture war fad. And it's a giant waste of our hardearned dollars. And it will further deter people from investing in the State of Iowa. As a taxpayer, a multimillion dollar business owner, and born and raised Iowa, I am simply ashamed by the mere presentation of this bill. This is not us, this is not Iowa. This is not where I chose to raise my kids and run my business. This is not the State I want to continue investing my dollars in. And countless others feel the same way. Please do what's right. Don't violate Iowans' inalienable rights. You're supposed to protect them, not strip them away.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
In my life I have known many people that have fallen under the umbrella of trans and/or non binary, and they have been some of the sweetest people I have ever come to know. The amount of human understanding and compassion that radiates off of them simply knows no limits, yet this bill beats them down for just trying to live their best life. This bill is a visceral attack on the freedoms of people all over, reminiscent of the Pink Triangle the Nazis utilized during their reign to attack LGBT people, or Jewish people being forced to wear the Star of David. As a country in history class we are taught about the horrors of fascism and Hitlers reign, and yet we are going down the same path by introducing such a bill. I implore the floor to vote NO on this bill.
02-12-2024
Barb Nelson []
CON
This bill stands to be a violation of personal privacy and medical privacy. I am opposed to this bill.
02-12-2024
Gina Hausknecht []
CON
I urge you to vote against this underreasoned, underresearched bill. This is ideologicallydriven political grandstanding, but it will have real and immediate human rights consequences. Iowans need public education, mental health care, good jobs, affordable housing, and a thriving economy that lifts all boats. We also need thoughtful, informed, inclusive public discussion about the complexity of lived experience, which in this case needs to be grounded in medical science we do not to be encouraged to think narrowly and fearfully about people we perceive as different than ourselves. This bill is not a responsible use of your time, energy, and authority.
02-12-2024
Amanda McCurley []
CON
This bill is a complete waste of my tax dollars. Please focus on improving the lives of Iowans instead of stoking hate and fear to continue to divide us. I do not support this bill or any other bill that targets protected groups of people.
02-12-2024
Jodie Theobald []
CON
I am completely against HF2389.
02-12-2024
Shirley Whiteside []
CON
I'm not even sure where to start with this ridiculous and unnecessary legal backlash. I think I will start with: what a violation of privacy. I am thinking of people I have known over many years who do not identify with the original determinate on their birth certificate. I think of a woman who was born intersex. Her parents decided to put Male gender on her birth certificate. Without going into the whole story, her life would have been much easier if gender identity had been something people could understand, or even discuss. But as an adult she resided in a state where she could work thru childhood trauma and get her ID to reflect the name and gender she identified with. I can't imagine the violations of privacy this bill would cause for people.Another person I know was born with "female anatomy" but has not lived as a female in many many years. He has had no surgeries. He lives a full life of service. Violation of privacy. Let the people be who they are meant to be. A different person I know I knew as a woman first and now is male, having had all the surgeries, and presents as a kind of macho bodybuilder. I never knew his life as a woman was so painful and disjointed. Now he is living his own dreams. You don't have to understand it (although it is nice to try) but just let people be who they are.Even the definitions here are offensive. Why are you wasting your time and the time of citizens who care about the equality of transgender or people who are gender fluid?I used to work in a women's shelter (in another state) and probably 80% of these women had been sexually traumatized. Some were transgender. Sometimes it was obvious, sometimes not. Homeless people often have been put out of their family homes due to their gender expression. The other women at the shelter understood that these ladies who did possess "reproductive systems designed to fertilize the ova of a female" were NOT men posing as women. They didn't act like men. There weren't problems with privacy in the bathrooms. There wasn't a problem with what someone's birth certificate might say. Again, stop wasting Iowans' time and hurting people who have been targeted enough already.The previous state 'victories' about girl's sports also strikes me as a little odd. I have a friend who has birthed 2 children from her own body and adopted others. She's always been a bigboned woman, quite big. If males are so much stronger than females and setting up some kind of failure for little girls why not prohibit big boned girls from competing as well? I'm sorry to rant, but please just drop this targeted harassment.
02-12-2024
Carole Cherne []
CON
This bill is an abomination. LGBTQ+ individuals should have equal rights and protections against discrimination. This bill is unfair, discriminatory, and I wholeheartedly oppose it because it will hurt many individuals and families.
02-12-2024
S. David Sands [none]
CON
This bill, HF 2389, is an abomination and must be rejected. It is utterly unfair to LGBTQ individuals, especially to transgender persons. It is based on religious prejudice and deliberate misinformation about the nature of gender identity. Please vote 'no' on this bill and any other that would discriminate against LGBTQ persons.
02-12-2024
Alan Lohff []
CON
It is deplorable that in this day and age with better access to information than humanity has ever had, that lawmakers cannot seem to understand why "separate but equal" does not work out well in practice. One need not delve deeply into the annals of history to see exactly what happens when the government decides to separate, or should I say segregate, one group of people off from society writ large. Of course, that is me being charitable. Assuming maybe the lawmakers in this state are ignorant of what they are setting up. They could not be so callous, so malicious, to purposefully try to replicate some of the most shameful facets of American history? Surely not. Not in Iowa. That would not be very "Iowa Nice" at all. So surely, they must simply have not paid attention in history class. (For those wondering, yes, this is sarcasm).In the end whether it is ignorance or malice matters little whether animus or idiocy drives those behind this bill. What matters is that this bill will make things worse for Iowans. It serves no useful government function and serves only to try to legislate away the rights of trans people. In the end that hurts everyone. A government willing to attack its own citizens via the legislature is not to be trusted, because the next time it needs a scapegoat it could be you or someone you love on the altar. I implore all involved to pause and remember the state motto, if you do not know it it should not be hard to find. It is on every flag of Iowa. When it says "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" do you imagine that it is speaking for all Iowans? Or just those in favor with the current administartion?
02-12-2024
Dana Wyatt [Self]
PRO
This bill is another important step in protecting the rights and safety of women. It preserves the uniqueness and worth of every woman as an image bearer of God.
02-12-2024
Lisa Rock []
CON
I respectfully submit my comment in opposition to HF 2389. This legislation threatens the safety and privacy of Transgender Iowans, Iowa families with same sex parents and all Iowans who value and respect human rights. As a woman I find it particularly demeaning and insulting that the governor and other supporters of this bill claim it protects the rights of women. This bill will restrict the rights of LGBTQ people and discrimination harms all Iowans. I urge you to reject HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I am for defining the sex of a person according to their DNA.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Sex is based on your biological records at birth nothing more and nothing less. You are either male or female.
02-12-2024
Sarah Chang []
CON
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. Rigidly defining mother and father on official documents would cause real social and economic damage, extending beyond trans parents to any notstrictlyheterosexual family. Additionally, enshrining into Iowa law the concept of separate but equal would cause harm rippling far beyond this demographic and context, and history has made clear that such separateness is never equal. People of all orientations, gender identities/expressions, and gender histories are our families, neighbors, and coworkers, and contribute immeasurably to our communities. They should be treated as the integral and indispensable part of society that they are, not singled out for secondclass treatment. This bill would not benefit anyone, would harm many Iowans, and repel many potential Iowans, both within and beyond the LGBTQ community. Please reject HF 2389 resoundingly!
02-12-2024
Sally Weyer []
CON
I am opposed to this legislation. The only point of this bill is to further marginalize Iowans who have already been told over and over by the governor and legislature that they're not wanted here. How cruel. And the governor wonders why young Iowans leave the state to live and work somewhere else. My message just stop already.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support our governor, in acknowledging there are two God given genders. Male and female.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
PROI am thankful our Governor has chosen to take a stand with this bill and whole heartedly support legislation to clearly define terms of gender.
02-12-2024
Judah Richardson [N/A]
CON
HF 2389 is yet another shameful attempt to legislate everyday, hardworking, law abiding Iowa citizens out of existence. Do not pass this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
Sex is determined the day you are born .always has been and always will.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
An individual with a disability is defined by the ADA as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment.To base a transgender person's identity solely on their genitalia at birth and to call anyone who identifies differently as disabled is ridiculous.The definition of disabled according to MerriamWebster is: 1. a. impaired or limited by a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition: affected by disability. b: incapacitated by illness or injury 2. of a device or mechanism: rendered inoperative (as by being damaged or deliberately altered)a disabled alarm.Transgender people are not disabled, they are not defective, they are human beings that deserve the same rights as any other human being.Every single human being is unique and different and deserves to be heard, loved, and accepted as they are. Being transgender is to be human! The USA is the land of the free and the home of the brave. Iowa don't pass a bill that makes humans afraid to lose their freedoms and be brave just to be their authentic self when they go out in public.
02-12-2024
Bonita Epley []
PRO
We STRONGLY support Gov. Reynolds bill defining genderrelated issues!!!
02-12-2024
Martha Craig Shaw []
CON
This is an unnecessary bill. It's motivation is cruelty. Leave the LGBTQ community alone.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [CHRISTIAN]
PRO
I am in support of this bill and want to encourage the legislation to support the bill as well and vote to allow it to go through.
02-12-2024
Crystal Freland []
CON
The wording in this legislation is problematic, and the intent behind it is even worse. You can not trample the civil liberties of ANYONE, no matter how small the demographic, just to appease a political party. This is theatrical grandstanding, but it will have a negative impact on so many Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
No place for hate in our state.
02-12-2024
Emily Phippen []
CON
I am against this bill. Not only would this bill NOT protect women and girls (or anyone), but it would cause undue harm, not just to non gender conforming people, but to all. Transgender, nonbinary and intersex people have always existed and are not going away.
02-12-2024
Anne McCullough Kelly [mental health counselor]
CON
I am gravely concerned about the potential impact of HF 2389, that forces people to have both gender assigned at birth and identified gender on vital documents, such as their birth certificate. This is forced outing of transgender people and insinuates they are not the gender they have affirmed through a long process, often consisting of medical treatment, legal actions, and mental health counseling. I reflect on what could happen if the government forced Iowans to disclose, for example, their vaccination history or mental health diagnoses as a part of vital documents confirming identity. Everyone would be outraged, and rightly so, that such a private pieces of personal information was being shown every time they had to show those documents to get drivers licenses, passports, etc. Yet, that is exactly what HF 2389 does. Additionally, this bill will create problems for samesex parents, jeopardize federal funding for domestic violence shelters, and enshrine "separate but equal" into Iowa law and that's a phrase with a long history of legalizing discrimination in this country (separate drinking fountains, eating areas in restaurants, seating on buses and trains, schools all in the name of keeping people of different races "separate but equal"). Please vote against this bill and protect the privacy and civil rights of all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Growing up in DSM, I learned the meaning of Iowa nice. Having lived in Chicago and then DC before returning to Iowa, I can see the atmosphere has drastically changed. As a queer person, I felt so comfortable coming out at a young age in this state. Now that Ive returned, I can see the tides have changed from love and acceptance to hate, bigotry, and intolerance, all in an attempt to disguise this as prioritizing womens rights. All so ironic, as the majority is also trying to deprive women of the rights they have always maintained in this state, the civil rights so proudly emblazoned on our state flag. There is absolutely no purpose for this bill other than to demonize a minority in this state and Im whole heartedly against it, seeking a return to decency this state used to be known for.
02-12-2024
Kent Zimmerman []
CON
My name is Kent Zimmerman. I spoke before subcommittee last Tuesday against HSB 649, which is now before you as HF 2389. I voice, again, my concern about the potential implications of this Bill and I ask the House to seriously consider the trajectory of what may come next if this Bill is to pass. I also invite our Representatives to ponder these thoughts. What has been happening all over this country, and especially in this state, is a very dangerous game being played by the Republican Party. They have made it their mission to focus on a community, the LGBTQ+ community, and specifically our Trans siblings. Why? That's the question?!? Because they know it will create great conflict. They know it will give them strong buzz words, headlines, and click bait to drum up support and gain strength within their political party. We have all witnessed, in shock and awe, the frenzy that started when a certain public figure entered the political arena in 2015. And horrifically, we are still watching it unfold. Unfortunately, this is the game that is now being played. Today, tragically, this game is affecting the lives of the members of the LGTBQ+ community. At some point, you are going to have to stand up against this new tactic. You are going to have to stand up for what is right, decent, and humane for ALL the citizens of this state. What is at the foundation of this "exclusion", "erasure", "bill of rights" legislature is hypocrisy, bigotry, and discrimination. Thomas Jefferson once said, "Religious institutions that use government power in support of themselves and force their views on persons of other faiths, or of no faith, undermine our civil rights." However, if you are going to testify for this Bill by quoting the Bible, then we must also pay attention to the fact that the Bible also forbids working on Sunday, eating shellfish or pork, getting tattoos, engaging in adultery, lying, excessive drinking, or gossip and slander. It also instructs that wives are to submit to their husbands, while husbands are to love their wives sacrificially. You cannot cherrypick from the Bible, then use it as testimony to pass laws. Hypocrisy.This Bill discriminates against a very particular group of people based on gender and sexual orientation, which are protected statuses. Bigotry. If this Bill is to pass and we start defining certain words or roles in our language, where will Governor Reynolds and her colleagues stop? As a single gay father of a 3monthold, I can't help but question, will my family be next? I oppose HF 2389 and any legislation that threatens the rights and wellbeing of individuals and communities. I believe we should be protecting civil liberties, promoting equity, and ensuring the safety and dignity of all residents. Any proposal that undermines these principles must be scrutinized and opposed. I urge you to consider the potential negative consequences of this horrific Bill and focus on solutions that uplift and empower our state's diverse population.
02-12-2024
Gretchen Jentz [IGNYTE GLOBAL Academy]
CON
This is the United States of America. This bill creates disunity. Our pledge states "One nation, under God, indivisible, with justice and freedom for all" This bill goes against all of those. It causes us to go backwards in our progress toward being the United States of America and world unity.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
Awful! Our state is so messed up.......
02-12-2024
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
NO
02-12-2024
Mary Stewart [Ottumwa Historic Preservation Co]
CON
This bill serves no positive purpose on behalf of the individual or the community. It presents a threat and a forced outing of an already vulnerable population. It communicates an exceptional level of cruelty and serves no practical purpose. History has already proven the harm that bills like this cause.
02-12-2024
Heather Schott []
CON
Anti LGBTQ is anti business, anti people, anti placemaking and anti Iowa. Defining a person's sex based on the ability to have kids minimizes the value of a whole person. Consider what happens to intersex people, people who have had cancer (or any other reason) and lost their ability to have kids?This bill will also not allow birth certificates to be issued for same sex couples. Our kids deserve to have both responsible parties listed. Let's build Iowa as an inclusive instead of exclusive.
02-12-2024
Barbara Royal [Individual]
CON
Please stop this horrible bill! There is no need for it, and all it does is make life more difficult and scary for our LGBTQ+ citizens!
02-12-2024
Kylie []
CON
While these antitrans bills may not directly affect me, they will affect students I teach, people my siblings go to school with, and people I know in my personal life. These bills are very close to infringing on MY rights as a member of the LGBT community, even though I myself am not trans.
02-12-2024
Shane schnittjer []
PRO
I stand with Governor Reynolds on her support and courage to pass this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill and all the other in committee like it are nothing but fear and hate mongering. The government needs to get out of people's personal lives and work on building up our state and nation. These bills are a complete waste of time and resources.
02-12-2024
Jenn Pearson [ ]
CON
these discriminatory and hateful bills are disgusting. so much for "iowa nice"
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Constituent]
CON
I do not support this statebased hate and discrimination!
02-12-2024
Lori Lovstad [Self]
CON
Please stop trying to legislate discrimination. Leave LGBTQ+ alone to live their lives free of persecution and danger.
02-12-2024
Jennifer []
CON
This will harm kids that already feel lost. If you dont need nonbinary or other gender mates, you dont have to use them personally but including them on documents helps everyone to be valid individuals as who they are. Also, why does it matter if there are two moms or two dads on birth certificate, at least then they get two loving parents they can call theirs.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please work on actual problems facing our state rather than creating problems that promote discrimination and hate.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop promoting hateful, discriminatory practices.
02-12-2024
AJ Potter [Pleasantville Baptist Church]
PRO
I am in full support of this legislation. It is unfortunate we need this clarification, but I am thankful that Gov. Reynolds is willing to support this legislation.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Leave LGBTQ+ Iowans alone!!! All people, All lives matter. We are all human beings who deserve the same civil rights. PLEASE DO NOT PASS THIS BILL!
02-12-2024
Rachael Woodley [Self]
CON
Please spend less time and resources attacking people and more time helping people and feeding them
02-12-2024
Alicia Fisher []
CON
This bill is harmful and there is no legitimate reason for it.
02-12-2024
Shelly Soorholtz [None]
CON
I do not support bill HF 2389. It is discriminatory and does not protect anyone but rather is a direct attack on the LGBTQ population! I strongly oppose this bill. I am a parent of a transgender daughter!Shelly Soorholtz
02-12-2024
Louise Alcorn []
CON
This is hateful, backward and petty. It serves only to pit Iowans against each other and distract from real issues. We are better than this. These bills have no place in the Legislatures calendar.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote no on the LGBTQ+ erasure bill. LGBTQ+ iowans should be a welcome and respected part of our state.
02-12-2024
Caleb James Pike []
CON
LGBTQ people live in Iowa... They exist and we should and WILL welcome them with open arms. With you (GOP), or in spite of you. Your hate will never last. And with all of the issues that we ALL face daily, this is the hill you've chosen? Children go hungry, people go without shelter. And HATE is all you've got? Maybe try to fix an actual problem instead of creating/making up a problem to solve. The IOWA GOP is a bunch of toddlers trying to run a country. It's disgraceful and embarrassing. It's unreal how pathetically low the GOP has to punch to win favor with their rural population. Your days are numbered, your values are abhorant. Empathy will eventually win and your hate will be drowned out.
02-12-2024
Douglas William Weihe []
CON
Live and let live. I always believed that Iowans are kind and accepting.I have been a life long republican. But enough is enough.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Hate has no place in Iowa. I am strongly opposed to this bill. This is one more step to drive away businesses and families from Iowa.
02-12-2024
McKenzie Pendry [None]
CON
Stop focusing on erasing LGBTQ Iowans and DO YOUR JOB
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a disgusting bill, and hatred like this has no place in Iowa or anywhere. As a Governor who claims to be Christian, her actions are anything but the actions of a man who, for his entire life, worked on behalf of the least of these and the people on the margins. Enough is enough. Stop the hate.
02-12-2024
Cheryl Clark []
CON
We need to.uphold the rights of LGBTQ individual, not destroy them!
02-12-2024
MELODY ANNETTE HOBERT-MELLECKER []
CON
This bill is hateful and bigoted and does nothing but seek to erase the gender identities of people who dont identify as cisgender. It is one more way Governor Reynolds and the Republicans are destroying our state by turning it into an intolerant hateful state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Dear Republicans stop trying to spread your hatred. There are so many important items that deserve and need the time and energy of our elected officials but antiLGBTQ+ tems are not it. Focus on items that will positively impact the majority instead of trying to erase this group. You are a shameful group. Do better!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Terrible idea! Why cant you help Iowans rather than wasting your time on this stuff? Get a life!!
02-12-2024
amy brooks murphy []
CON
this bill is dangerous, destructive and absolutely infuriating! do the right thing and don't let this malicious bill pass. vote no to HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Dena Bates []
CON
Everyone regardless of their sexual preference deserves the same rights.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
CON
02-12-2024
Holly Kolfenbach [UIHC]
CON
Iowa used to lead the country in acceptance. It is 2024! Iowa can and should do better!
02-12-2024
Kelsey Gerhold []
CON
These bills make me hate living in the state of Iowa, and I am ashamed my state would do this.
02-12-2024
Diane Kearns [AAUW]
CON
VOTE NO on this mean spirited piece of legislation. Iowa is better than this.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
This is discrimination and Iowans dont want it!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Self]
CON
Stop the hate! Let everyone live their own lives as they see fit and to not be targeted for who they are!
02-12-2024
Billie Jo Fielder []
CON
Hatred of people different than us is not Iowas way. Please stop hurting others to make an agenda that destroys us as a people!!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Schulte]
CON
Freedom for all!
02-12-2024
Sveta Miller []
CON
These bills hurt the State of Iowa! They hurt people, business and the future of our state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
These bills are not Iowa nice. You should be ashamed of yourselves for even considering treating other humans this way.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Steffen [Year]
CON
Please, please, vote no on this hateful, harmful bill. As the mother of 2 LBGTQ kids, I can tell you first hand, this bill would be devastating and incredibly harmful to our adults and youth alike. Iowa can and should do better to protect the rights of all of our citizens.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Say no to this bill and discrimination!
02-12-2024
Mark [Nash]
CON
Don't take away rights of LGBTQ Iowans
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
All of our children need to feel loved and heard. Just because someone thinks or feels differently than you does not make it okay to hate them or dismiss them. Congress is to be a voice for all Iowans. Our country needs to learn to respect one another even when we have a different opinion. The hate and prejudice in our country needs to stop. Just be kind to one another!!
02-12-2024
Sandy Darveau [Constituent ]
CON
Please stop bills that marginalize and remove rights from LGBTQ citizens in our state. These are your neighbors, your children, your aunties, and possibly your friends. They deserve the same rights as everyone else in this state.
02-12-2024
Kristi Wickre [Iowa citizen]
CON
Stop trying to make our state less open and accepting of all.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Self]
CON
Do not erase our LGBTQ citizens
02-12-2024
Nia and Katie [Love in the Face]
CON
As an organization that does work with LGBT humans and families, this type of legislation that is only necessary to explicitly exclude a group from public life, is so harmful. There are many other things that the Iowa legislature can focus on to actually improve lives for all individuals living in the state, and this is not one of them.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Herrington []
CON
Stop the hate!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
All people have the right to be who they are and have the right to express themselves in whatever manner they see fit. Part of what made Iowa amazing in the United States was our initial progressive position on LGBTQ rights and one of the first to legalize marriage. Now is not the time to talk about removing rights away from people who are just trying to be happy in their own skin without negatively hurting anyone else. Solve real problems in our state, not made up ones to try and win votes and raise campaign funds.
02-12-2024
Jacob Piasecki [Private]
CON
I'll just be frank you all disappoint me with your constant hate. I used to be proud to be an Iowan now Im afraid and embarrassed to be one. What happened to the love and acceptance I once knew?
02-12-2024
Anonymous [USDA-ARS]
CON
This law is an egregious violation of basic human rights and most importantly our freedom. The implications of this law are terrifying to say the least. I do not want the government or gym teachers to be able to inspect my genitals at any time they want without repercussions. This is disgusting and should not be allowed.
02-12-2024
Nicole mullan []
CON
Please stop discriminating against the people you were elected to serve by creating bills that harm them! This is disgraceful and embarrassing for the state of Iowa. Support LGBTQ+ people as I hope you support all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Ginny Otto []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill and what it means for the future of transgender people in Iowa in regards to their freedom and safety.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
Erasing anyone is unacceptable. This bill has the potential of endangering lives. What's the suicide rate in Iowa amongst young people seeking health care?
02-12-2024
Cassidy Dixon []
CON
Dear Governor Reynolds,I am writing to express my strong opposition to the recent developments regarding LGBTQ+ legislation in Iowa. The attempt to erase transgender and nonbinary Iowans from state code, coupled with potential hurdles for samesex parents in obtaining birth certificates, is deeply concerning.As a resident of this great state, I believe in equality and inclusivity for all. Discrimination has no place in our society, and I urge you to reconsider the direction these bills are taking. It's disheartening to learn about the limited time allocated for a public hearing, as it seems to undermine the importance of this issue to many Iowans.I implore you to listen to the diverse voices of our community and consider the broad impact these bills may have on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. Now, more than ever, unity and understanding are crucial.Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-12-2024
Larry Kaster [Self]
CON
I urge legislators to oppose this bill. This bill has the high potential to harm LGBTQ+ Iowans, and for what? So the state knows what's in the pants of all it's citizens? Kim Reynolds should be ashamed of herself. This bill is invasive and wastes taxpayer money. All the pro comments reference the bible and god, well what about love thy neighbor? Love thy neighbor unless they're LGBTQ+, am I right? Reject fascist theocracy. Reject hate. Reject this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Of the Sun]
CON
Legislators needs to stop wasting tax payers money of these bigoted and hateful bills. Let people live their lives.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
02-12-2024
Layne [Rasmussen ]
CON
I am opposed to HF 2389
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Union County Dems]
CON
Legislated hate is never acceptable. That "Iowa Nice" saying is long gone from life in this state. Legislators, you need to do, and can do, much better than this.
02-12-2024
Tim Thien [None]
CON
Republicans are so hateful and afraid of children. Time for you to go!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
All of these hate bills need to be dead. Reynolds and her cronies need to start listening to the people who they are supposed to be representing instead of all this hate!. We dont need laws to erase people from this state. Reynolds and her partners need to stop this hate crime. She has to stop pushing so much hate in this state. She is running people out of Iowa. Even forbid you are different and you want to raise a family here in Iowa. So flipping what if you have two moms or two dads. I doesnt matter!!!!! . Kids need love and support. Iowa is not nice anymore because our government keeps going after them for some reason. You know if she had a family member who was transgender, would she continue with this hate. There is already too much hate here in Iowa and the world.
02-12-2024
Paul Alexander [Farmer]
PRO
I support this bill HF 2389
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is discrimination. Do not erase people from existence. They exist whether you agree with them or not. Their existence isn't harming you, so stop trying to pass laws that will cause harm to them.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill essentially targets transgender people the way Hitler's star of David targeted Jewish people. They are such a small percentage of the population. We do no need to be afraid of them. This type of targeting is cruel.
02-12-2024
Robert Barry []
CON
Im not what this house has against members of my family and my former students. I taught in public schools for 40 years. Dozens and dozens and dozens of LGBTQ plus students who need love, more so than some of their straight friends. My own granddaughter is trans, but I cant tell you what this is doing to her. I urge you to throw all of these bills out. Republicans in Iowa were the ones who led the Vietnamese to resettle here Following the war. When did you all become so angry? Why do you feel the need to hurt these people? What is so threatening about them? My guess is its your lack of knowledge because you refuse to associate with anyone like them. These are children of God, and the Christ you worship will remember what you have done. You have already ruined the school systems. Five of my former students are leaving education because of the governors new plans. What in gods name are you thinking? This State is becoming an embarrassment to the nation. Freedom to flourish, my ass
02-12-2024
Brian Cizek []
CON
I thought we stood against segregation?? Why are we trying to repeat history and enforce it! Look at yourselves in the mirror and ask yourselves if any of those children were your children would this be good for them or make them the minority.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Equality for all Iowans, no matter what!
02-12-2024
Rebecca Mullins []
CON
Please do not take away the rights of Iowans who identify differently. We are all made in Gods image and deserve respect.
02-12-2024
Kristi Cooper []
CON
Do not legalize discriminatory practices for LGBTQ citizens. These taxpayers and voters are valuable citizens, leaders, business people, professionals, friends and family members in our communities. They deserve all rights as humans.
02-12-2024
Michael Witte []
CON
I am against any bill that diminishes the dignity of an individual in our society.
02-12-2024
Tabitha Simms-Quiqley [N/A]
CON
Please vote no. Im a parent of a nonbinary child that just wants to live their life without government intrusion. This bill is unnecessary and a waste of time
02-12-2024
Mary Heatley [None]
CON
It is appalling that the legislative body is choosing to focus so much energy on a group that makes up less than 1% of the population. The paranoia, hate and discriminatory nature is unbelievable. I cant help but wonder what behind the scene issues are being slipped through. To support this aggressive hatred is beneath the Iowans I have known for 50 years. Why are you not pursuing those who have injured children and elderly??Focus people.
02-12-2024
Caron Harbour Wedeking []
CON
I strenuously oppose all the bills that would erase the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa, or otherwise hinder that community from receiving equal treatment under Iowa laws. It is unconscionable that any person with the power of the Iowa legislature behind them would choose to harm people just because they have a different lifestyle. Shame on all of you who are putting political party and/or your own personal beliefs before your job which is to uphold the rights of ALL Iowans, not just those you want to choose.
02-12-2024
Maria Ottavi [ ]
CON
I firmly oppose this bill. By creating an ultranarrow, restrictive definition of biological sex, as well as requirements for disclosure on commonly used documentation, this legislation jeopardizes the safety of one of Iowa's most vulnerable populations. This bill does NOT protect the rights of women in fact, it only further "others" the abilities, achievements, and potential of our female citizens trans, cis, or otherwise. Defining a person strictly by their genitalia and reproductive abilities is not only demeaning but an absurd invasion of privacy. This bill is a direct act of aggression and restriction on the LGBTQ+ community within Iowa. Say NO to HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Jason Campfield []
CON
No to this bill. No hate in Iowa
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
Leave LBTG alone. They are not hurting anyone. They deserve be treated fairly and equally like everyone else.
02-12-2024
Debbi Washburn [Retired]
CON
Quit wasting time on bills that affect a very small amount of people. We have way more important things to legislate. Yesterday I was at a forum with 30 people I did not know and they were ALL against this legislation!
02-12-2024
Dustin Riggins []
CON
I'm strongly against HF 2389. This bill works to harm the LBGTQ community. Trans rights are human rights. We should be working to make Iowa more welcoming so that maybe people would stay instead of need to be fearful.
02-12-2024
Jean Semsch [Scott County Democrats]
CON
Do not get suckered into agreeing with Reynolds on this bill. Why are you attacking this group of people? I thought you were all Christian and God loves everybody! God made everybody.Why call attention to people who are sometimes struggling to even tell their parents, or loved ones? But no let's put it out there so the whole school now can legitamately bully another kid who now is facing suicide. Do you see how this will play out?If you are not sure how you are determining your sex, this bill will only make a person make a decision, or they can't drive a car. How can they get to work to make minimum wage?
02-12-2024
Marva McCarty [Concerned citizen]
CON
Neither science nor caring humanity nor Jesus teachings can justify this bill. Stop this insanity.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The LGBTQ+ bill to be discussed tonight would allow open discrimination against the group of people. You are attempting to turn them in to second class citizens.
02-12-2024
Tamara Danzl [NA]
CON
This is an invasion of privacy. There is no need to have this information included or required by the State of Iowa.
02-12-2024
Tori Trembath [Leepfrog Technologies]
CON
This bill is appalling and an affront to the civil rights of LGBTQ Iowans. If the moral issues surrounding this bill singling out trans people isn't bad enough, then please consider the ramifications it holds for our image as a state. We can hardly attract young people of talent to come to this state to work, and the ones we have are leaving the state in droves. I promise there are more important issues in the state to be focusing on right now, so please stop using your time and energy to actively make the lives of queer Iowans worse!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
LGBTQ+ issues are my primary voting issue. I will vote against anyone that sponsors or votes for them.
02-12-2024
Paula Blake []
CON
Iowa should not be known as the state of Hate.
02-12-2024
Chelsey Palmer []
CON
This is hateful discrimination and does not belong in Iowa, or anywhere else for that matter.
02-12-2024
Barb Jones []
CON
The LGBTQIA+ Iowans are humans and deserve the same human rights as straight, cis gender Iowans. I am against the antilgbtq bills flowing through the Republican led house and senate.
02-12-2024
Judith Heseman []
CON
Please dont let this bill pass. Its not welcoming to Iowa and its discriminatory in many ways. There is no need for this legislation in our state. Please do the right thing. Thank you.
02-12-2024
Monique Shore [Citizen]
CON
This bill will target transgender persons and will make them more susceptible to discrimination because of their gender identity. ALL PERSONS ARE CREATED EQUAL. This bill does nothing to help any citizen of Iowa but has the potential to cause great harm to the transgender community. Please oppose this bill.
02-12-2024
Scott Schumacher [NORTH AMERICAN CORPORATION]
CON
This bill is despicable and the only displays continued hypocrisy by the GOP.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The government should not regulate citizens identities. The law is better as it stands. I do not support this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to this bill and others which discriminate against LGBTQ+ people.
02-12-2024
Donald Hitt [N/A]
CON
This law is ridiculous!
02-12-2024
Marie Villhauer [Marie Villhauer LMHC]
CON
LGBTQIA people matter!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Thank you for the work you do! It is necessary.
02-12-2024
Tristan Schmidt []
CON
This bill comes after the failure of another similar bill that tried to use ambiguous language. It is clear that this bill is a response to that in attempts to codify "man" and "woman". the thing is that this view narrowly limits the potential and abilities of our Queer families in Iowa. Whether it is a familybychoice or a biological family, this bill undermines those relationships and tells people that this state is not great if you are looking for a safe and loving place to raise kids or use the bathroom as a trans person. The excuse that there may be problems with letting folks use the restroom they feel comfortable in is that there is no basis. They could not provide any cases or evidence for claims such as this that they were making in email responses to constituents. Anybody on the committee has yet to do that if they planned on it. No one can bring a case file or incidents. How many folks in the legislature probably have DUIs/DWIs, Domestic assault records, and so on, but you concern yourselves with a population that has almost ZERO representation in the legislature? You do understand what the word "representation" means, correct? This bill will be blocked if passed. Please leave me, my Queer families, and the youth I work with alone to be themselves. Who bullies children and families? The Iowa legislature if this passes. Please do not pass this bill. this bill is the last thing I need and its passage will cement me in moving out of the state. We are here, We are Queer, and get used to it, we will exist regardless of your legislative opinion.
02-12-2024
Raedean VanDenover []
CON
Please dont legislate hate in our state. Our kids are far too valuable.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please stop the hate! This bill is unnecessary and unkind.
02-12-2024
Wendy Lingo []
CON
This is a ridiculous waste of time and energy. Why must you legislate HATE
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
CON!!!
02-12-2024
Dawn Francis []
CON
PLEASE don't support this hateful bill!!!
02-12-2024
Cynthia Woodhouse [None]
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, I struggle with my ties to this state, as I watch its government systematically working to erase me, my family, many colleagues, and students I am sworn to protect and support. A person's sex and gender identity have nothing to do with anyone else, yet this legislature seems absolutely determined to spend its time and resources legislating what is a nonproblem. Please stop trying to eliminate protections for one of the most vulnerable communities in the state. Stop teaching our kids that the government gets to define who people are and whom they can love. Please stop codifying hate and intolerance. LGBTQ+ Iowans are still Iowans and deserve respect.
02-12-2024
Lisa Horsch [None]
CON
Please do not enact this bill.
02-12-2024
Julie Lasche Brown [Iowan]
CON
Iowans deserve to be recognized as their authentic self. These attacks do not serve our community. Put people before politics.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I stand with Governor Kim on this. God only made male and female. Anything else is man manipulated.Even if they trans, a dug up skeleton will tell the true gender simply by the bones.The world is digging a hole they will not be able to climb out of, nor will God give them a chance to do so.Emergency situations could also be impacted if the wrong gender is portrayed.I am praying this passes and appreciate the option to have my say.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
If you were concerned about kids wed be focused on ways to keep them safe from violence. This bill is promoting separation and division which leads to hate, bullying, and violence.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
NO to HR2389 which discriminates against Iowa citizens in the LGBTQ community.
02-12-2024
Molly Moser [None]
CON
Stop legislating hate. Thats all this is. Let people live their lives! S spend your time on actual needs.
02-12-2024
Caitlin McLoud [N/A ]
CON
This proposed act is a haunting reminder to the people of Iowa of three things. 1. This current government does not reflect on the wants of the people and has no intention of actually representing its constituents. 2. The current state administration has no respect for the lives of LGBTQ+ people living in this state or concern for their safety. And 3. This state government wants to waste everyones time playing identity politics meanwhile our infrastructure is crumbling, mental heath is becoming a bigger and bigger crisis for Iowans, and people are being put on the street daily. Iowa has bigger issues and this blatant ignoring of actual problems that need actual solutions is embarrassing and insulting to all of the people who are relying on this government to improve the lives of those it represents. Criminalizing LGBTQ+ people isnt a solution and the existence of LGBTQ+ people is not a problem. Do better for Iowans.
02-12-2024
Regan Wolbers [Representing myself]
CON
This is a blatantly discriminatory bill. I strongly oppose this type of legislation. It is clearly political positioning and is not looking out for the good of Iowans. I am strongly opposed to this bill . I am the mother of extremely talented and bright queer children who will be unlikely to share their talent in Iowa long term. They will take their innovative, creativity, problem solving, and ingenuity to a State where they are embraced and protected. What kind of Iowa are we creating by legalizing hate and discrimination? One that will lose our talented young people, 710% of whom identify as LGBTQIA. I also remain concerned about why this is being introduced. Political gain and game playing is part of it. But with so many antiLGBTQIA bills being introduced I also wonder what we are being distracted from? What legislation is Big Money/Big Politics trying to prevent us from spending our time and energy on as with exhaustion we continue to fight for human rights and dignity for all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Patresa Hartman []
CON
Legislation like this sets Iowa back decades and makes this an unwelcoming place to be. It ignores the important contributions and inherent worth of good and honest human beings. It leaves Iowans unprotected if they cannot fit within someone else's definition of who they should be. This legislation unnecessarily makes life harder for vulnerable populations who have done nothing to deserve it. Life is already hard. Focus on real issues that HELP people. Stop this hateful and counterproductive parade of meanspirited and misguided legislation.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is discrimination.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Ferrell []
CON
This bill is incredibly problematic from a number of perspectives, not the least of which is a human rights perspective. Passage of this bill tells me that my family and I would need to immediately move from the state of Iowa as this makes the state infinitely less safe for my nonbinary children.
02-12-2024
Kim Ferrier []
PRO
Please support our governors bill! This is a much needed defining piece of legislation that will affect us for years to come! Thank you Governor Reynolds for your brave stand for Iowa!
02-12-2024
Kristin Dillavou []
CON
Treat all our citizens with respect! Stop targeting those different from you with hateful legislation. LGBTQ+ individuals are valuable members of our communities and deserve to be welcomed and protected in our State.
02-12-2024
Rex E Armstrong []
CON
I am very much opposed to this bill. It discriminates towards many Iowans. We used to be a welcoming state but are becoming a state of intolerance, narrow mindedness, and injustice. Children, minorities, and lower and middle class folks no longer count in the eyes of our governor and many elected officials.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Why do we need this bill? It is completely uncalled for. I fear that it will create more prejudice, hatred, and discrimination against intersex and trans people. I reject discriminating against those who do not neatly fit into a binary construction of male and female. This has no place in the Iowa constitution. Please spend your time passing bills that benefit Iowans instead of tearing them down.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I implorec you to act as a representative of all people, not a particular group and to base your decisions on facts, science and input from professionals in the fields not in opinions and emotions of those who have not had the good fortune to be exposed to the facts. You hold the lives and well being of our youth in your hands. Choose wisely. LBGTQ plus children are children. Theyre parents and they should have equal rights and representation under the law.
02-12-2024
Elizabeth Kapp [NA]
CON
This weekend I rewatched Little Giants. One very simple lesson of this movie for children seven and under, made in 1994, is dont be reductive about gender. My kindergartener was able to grasp this message, was able not only to grasp it but to celebrate it. I wondered if Kim Reynolds would be able to handle this movie. Please do not pass this bill that will compromise the safety and medical privacy of trans people. Please do not pass this bill that will needlessly compromise the lives of noncis and same sex parents. The people you are pretending to protect through this legislation, dont want this and didnt ask for it.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I support LGBTQIA+ Iowans and object to ANY move to erase or remove their rights
02-12-2024
Kathy Haan [n/a]
CON
As a parent of two wonderful children, both of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply concerned and troubled by the 40 antiLGBTQ+ bills currently in the Iowa Legislature. My family's experience in our small town, despite the exceptional qualities and achievements of my children, has been marred by the incomprehensible hate directed towards them for merely existing as their true selves. This is proof of the pervasive and harmful attitudes that such legislation can foster.The proposed LBGTQ+ erasure bill, in particular, represents a direct attack on the dignity and rights of transgender, nonbinary, and samesex individuals and families. Erasing these communities from state code and complicating the issuance of birth certificates for samesex parents are actions that resonate with discrimination and intolerance.I am so deeply ashamed to be an Iowan, and as soon as given the opportunity, will be taking our family and businesses elsewhere. You ignore your constituents and foster hate. Pharisaical views will humble you once you're burning in the pits of your hell.
02-12-2024
Jill M Faucher []
CON
Please vote No on this bill another bill that provides no value to Iowans; another bill that discriminates; another bill that nobody is asking for; another bill that takes away valuable resources for solving problems like high cancer rates in Iowans, resolving the lack of quality childcare (and the ability to afford it)and figuring out how to keep our schools safe. Please stop spending time creating bills to minimize and discriminate against lgbtq+ Iowans and start spending time on how you can make life better for all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Mark Pries [Gloria Dei Lutheran Church]
CON
As you do it to the least of these. You do it to me. Matt. 25:40Love your people!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is shameful, unconstitutional, misogynist, and incompetent.It is shameful because it seeks to oppress Iowans simply wishing to exist within society.It is unconstitutional because "separate but equal" was rejected by the Supreme Court 70 years ago. It is misogynist because women have fought for the better part of a century that their womanhood and position in society NOT be defined by their uterus.And it is incompetent because it was written in full ignorance of medical knowledge. I condemn this bill entirely and beg you to vote no.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
Say no to hate! We dont want this!!!
02-12-2024
Ginny Antrin []
CON
This is discriminatory towards all and should not be allowed to pass
02-12-2024
Colleen Knipper []
CON
Please stop pressing bills that strip rights away from Iowa citizens. We need to work towards making this state more welcoming to all people, not less welcoming.
02-12-2024
Nicole Syverrson []
CON
I am an Iowa resident very much against this bill. It will further discrimination of a group that is already targeted in many ways and does not promote a welcoming and inclusive state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
A person is a person. Whether a person has a penis, but declares she is a girl, I dont care.
02-12-2024
Kristina Gitterman [--None--]
CON
Support ALL PEOPLE Not just your right wing agenda
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Private Citizen]
CON
It is difficult to understand as an Iowan why data and scientific evidence is not being used as the basis for this legislation. It is my belief that government policy works best when it is fueled by facts, not feeling and fear. This bill does not provide clear protections for Iowans seeking services, employment, and housing. A system of separate but equal has not historically resulted with equal benefits to the parties divided by law. It is unclear how this prejudicial proposal will result in a benefit to all Iowans under law.
02-12-2024
Janet Hissem []
CON
As a governing body, The Republicans need to do the work of the people NOT of your individual biases or of those lining your pockets to purchase your beliefs. Each human being has the right to their own autonomy, anatomy, and sexual orientation. None of you are GOD and have not been appointed by him to be judge of jury. Its always been between the human and God its never been about any of you. So get back to the issues of governing and mind your own business when it comes to individual freedoms.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Why must we discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. Seems to me that Republicans need to stop saying they believe in small government. They totally believe in getting government involved in anything that they don't understand or agree with. Govern and stay out of people's personal lives.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Iowans have a right to keep their personal business private. This legislation is intrusive and the work of nosy busybodies who just want to scare people and create monsters where none exist for the sake of power and control.This bill is shameful.
02-12-2024
Shannon Samuelson [NA]
CON
I have been a resident of Iowa for all my life. I am a proud member of the LGBTQ community. I am also a parent to children who also live in Iowa. They were raised by same sex parents. The bills being pushed through to erase LGBTQ individuals are harmful and disappointing. You cannot erase who we are based on legislature. These bills only assist in discriminating practices which I hope Iowa will not be a part of.I am strongly against any bill that will negatively impact the LGBTQ community and feel these are unnecessarily taking time away from real work that can be done to help all Iowans. I urge everyone to vote NO for these harmful bills.
02-12-2024
Michael Pavey []
CON
You were elected to represent the people, not Governor Reynolds and those who hate. Ask Iowans what they want. You will hear things about our infrastructure, supporting public education, drawing new businesses to Iowa, etc. Being known as a hate state where people are persecuted will not bring in business. It will chase businesses and Iowans out of the state. Spend your time and my taxpayer money on positive things!!!
02-12-2024
Nathan Williams []
CON
This legislation will not define away the experiences of transgender Iowans or their place in our families and communities. What it will do is to deny them the safety and equal status that most cisgender Iowans take for granted. What it will do is to place another barrier in front of LGBTQ+ children, parents, and community members. What it will do is lead still more hardworking and fairminded people to reconsider whether this is a state we can call home. I do not need to share the experience of my trans neighbors to believe what they tell me about themselves. I do not need to agree with someone in order to recognize that they also belong in my state. I do not need to wait for my own rights to be infringed before I stand up for the rights of my neighbors. Iowa has a long and proud history of standing for civil rights, which means equal treatment for minority groups. I want to see Iowa live up to that history.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Espinoza []
CON
Iowa is known for Iowa nice. These discrimination bills negate this widely held notion. How can we be inclusive when many are not being accepted. Im truly disappointed in what is trying to be pushed down all of our throats because of the decision of a few. Are these ideas truly the best you can do to improve our state? Im extremely disgusted by the waste of time & money on these petty and divisive bills.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I believe that this proposed bill should not be passed. This bill will out transgender people, which can lead to harassment and violence toward an already vulnerable population. It will reveal their private medical information against their will.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [An Iowa Voter]
CON
I will legislator, should focus on something far, more important Such as better support for our public education Initiatives, protecting our students in their schools, stopping bullying and stopping foreign purchase of our farmland. NOT Putting restrictions on a very very small part of our state population.
02-12-2024
Kirsten McCauley [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
It is simple...hate is wrong. These bills do nothing but support hate. When facing fear, try learning more before you make the decision to hate what you may not understand. All people deserve to be treated with respect.For those who claim to be supporting these bills in the name of religion. I believe Jesus said love thy neighbor. He didn't say love thy neighbor only if he/she looks, thinks, and acts like you.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
I oppose the bills harming our LGBTQ citizens.
02-12-2024
Brenda E Meester [Parent]
CON
Trans and binary people deserve their civil rights to be protected rather than erased. Stop legislating hateful bills
02-12-2024
Pierce-Thomas Edie [N/a]
CON
Treat all humans with care. Vote against this bill.
02-12-2024
Maura Strassberg [Iowa citizen]
CON
This hateful bill is an embarrassment to Iowa and Republicans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I believe we should promote kindness, understanding and acceptance not hate. A person has to be comfortable in his/her/their own skin and we should respect that. LBGTQ individuals/groups should have the same rights as non LBGTQ individuals / groups. They are people the same as you or me and should be treated with integrity and respect.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is so full of hate for LGBTQ+ Iowans and as the parent of a transgender child, I do not support any part of this.
02-12-2024
Eileen Peterson []
CON
This bill is divisive and discriminates against groups in Iowa. I am against it..
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
We have more pressing issues to worry about than taking more rights away from Iowans. Do better.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [citizen of Iowa]
CON
We need to protect ALL Iowans and stop the discrimination that is coming out of the state house. Stop the hatred and fear of the LGBTQ community. ALL Iowans should have the same rights.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is discriminatory and fueled by hate. It DOES NOT represent the people of Iowa. We will not go quietly. IOWANS DO NOT WANT THIS BILL PASSED.
02-12-2024
Renae Ruschill [Myself]
CON
I am against this bill.This legislature is shameful for actively targeting transgender individuals. Let people exist in peace. This bill is not in good faith, this bill is malicious. Utter shame upon this state.
02-12-2024
Kristin Olivier []
CON
The proposed legislation is hateful and dangerous for families like mine. I chose Iowa as my home over 25 years ago, and I refuse to watch it become a state that is hostile or unsafe to LGBTQ+ people. It is already gaining a reputation as unwelcoming to certain groups of people. As a state, Iowa can ill afford to lose its young people as they chose to live elsewhere. We also stand to lose potential talent, business, and innovation coming from diverse corners of the country and world. I am afraid that in the near future, Iowa will be a closeminded, discriminatory place that sacrificed its own people for political gain.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is hateful. Please stop all of this hateful legislation.
02-12-2024
Jodie M Klatt []
CON
CON
02-12-2024
John M. Krantz []
CON
I am ashamed at the hatred and close mindedness that Governor Reynolds and the Republican legislature is promoting in their agenda. I am a lifelong Iowan who used to be proud of the Iowa Nice monicker. I am so appalled and ashamed of what is happening in our state from womens rights being repressed to discrimination against LBGTQ people to the craziness surrounding BOOKS (yes, books dont kill what about GUNS?), putting down public schools and all this other prejudiced nonsense that I am truly embarrassed to live in this state any longer. I just shake my head in disgust when I read the newspaper or watch the news.
02-12-2024
Robert Booth []
CON
It's time you stop trying to remove rights from LGBTQ+ and start writing Legislation for all. Improve our state not decide! Stop the hate and start showing compassion! You Republicans are just modern day elected bullies.
02-12-2024
Gretchen Layli Jentz [IGNYTE GLOBAL Bahai Academy ]
CON
This is the United States of America. This bill creates disunity. Our pledge states: "One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all". This bill goes against all of these. It causes humanity to go backwards in our progress toward being the United States of America and world unity.
02-12-2024
Linda McLaury [Public]
CON
Honestly this state has become an embarrassment. Why are we targeting LGBTQ people and dividing this state further? Our leadership is deluded and seems focused on striking fear rather than solving actual issues.
02-12-2024
Paula Thome []
CON
Again appears to be looking for a solution to a created problem. All peoples civil rights are important.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, I am disgusted at the amount of hate being driven forward in our state. LGBTQ+ Iowans are humans with rights. Simply because someone does not agree with them does. OT mean we have a right to exclude them from our population. We all deserve fair treatment and rely on our representation to do so. To vote for this bill is to refuse to represent Iowans. To vote for this bill or any others restricting LGBTQ+ rights is to vote for hate. As a Christian, I am appalled at the misuse of biblical commandments to spew and contrive hatred. Those who vote for this garbage should be ashamed.
02-12-2024
Jeff Inman [Drake University]
CON
This bill is unnecessary and hate filled. Iowa has long been a tolerant place. As a lifelong Iowan, this goes against everything this state has taught me.
02-12-2024
Lee Robida [Self ]
CON
I do NOT support this bill, and stand for the rights of all Iowans to be able to live in a society that is acceptable to all people.
02-12-2024
Colleen Hjort-Frederiksen []
CON
Please stop the hatred for LGBTQIA+ Iowans. Im not sure why Republicans want to erase humans of their identity, but its wrong. We dont need to put restrictions on how humans selfidentify. Please Vote NO to HF 2389.
02-12-2024
Susan Russ [N/A]
CON
I do not agree with or support the various pending legislation directed against LGBTQ+ Iowans. It is not the purpose of politics to discriminate against anyone. Please vote no regarding these various bills and stand up for the rights of ALL Iowans!!
02-12-2024
Josh Appel [Clio Baptist Church]
PRO
I am grateful for the stand that is being taken to stand for truth. I think it is necessary to pass this bill before more of our words are redefined to blur lines that God has already decreed. God made man and woman and it is clear and should not be changed.
02-12-2024
Dessie Sliekers []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. It is hurtful, cruel and needless. Stop punching down on the LGGBTQ community.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Lellig []
CON
This bill is hateful and discriminatory and needs to be defeated
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop this attack on Iowa Citizens. Stop this discrimination. I do not support this or any of the anti LGBTQ+ bills moving through the Iowa legislature.
02-12-2024
Deborah Schliekelman [None]
CON
There is too much focus being placed on LGBTQ+ by our Republican legislators 40 bills? This is what Iowans' tax dollars are funding? I wish they would find more important things to focus on, instead of obsessing over people's personal life choices, reproductive choices, what books to read, the list goes on. This drive to dictate so many aspects of our lives is appalling and frankly alarming.
02-12-2024
Lenore Howard []
CON
I am strongly opposed to HF2389. I cannot and will not support discrimination of LGBTQ+ and transgender people or any singled out group of people based simply upon who they are or identify as. This bill is a disgraceful sham based on the Republicans' own cultural biases and backwards thinking.
02-12-2024
Liam Shipston []
CON
I'm a masculine tradesman who was born female. If this bill were to become law, I would be required to use the women's restroom. All I want (and all anyone against this bill wants) is to be able to live my life how I see fit without fear of being myself in public spaces. I shouldn't be forced to out myself as a transgender individual every time I have to show an ID; this is a government overreach. I am proud to be trans, but that doesn't mean I should be forced to proclaim it just going about my daytoday life. I urge Representative Gaines to continue supporting LGBTQ and privacy rights by voting no on this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
These people whom you are attempting to erase are human beings who are trying to find their way in the world. It can be a difficult path, and the State of Iowa has no right to minimize anyone, or to make the path impossible and impassable.
02-12-2024
Angelica Freeman [N/A]
CON
Leave people alone, these bills are unconstitutional. Shame on you.
02-12-2024
Melissa Burdock Trumpold []
CON
These types of bills and measures are driving lifelong Iowa residents to consider moving out of the state. We don't feel that our voices are being heard or that you value everything that we do for the community.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
No more anti LGBTQ+ regulations!
02-12-2024
Cecilia Redmond-Norris []
CON
My heart breaks that the state I grew up in (and chose to return to in order to raise my children) has become so filled with hateful legislation that my children do not feel safe living here. Please stop promoting bills that discriminate and get to work passing bills that help Iowans
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
By specifically prohibiting discrimination of males and females, this bill implies that discrimination of transgender and nonbinary citizens is allowed. There is no situation in which discrimination against anyone is conscionable. Unless a law specifically prohibits discrimination against all people, it has no place in our state or our country.
02-12-2024
Carrie England []
CON
I am very much against this bill!! Please do not pass it. Gender is not black and white. All people matter. All people deserve to be protected. This proposal is hateful.
02-12-2024
Jenny Kula []
CON
Vote NO on this bill. It is discriminatory and dumb. Im afraid to go into debt if I go to the dentist, I dont care about what a man or woman is. People in Iowa need help, lifes rough and this bill only makes it even harder to live for a group that is already facing discrimination.
02-12-2024
Vincent Shoppa []
PRO
There is no way to define this bill other than discriminatory. This takes the hate and discrimination trans people already face and puts it into law. Iowa will not become the Florida of the Midwest.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please do not advance this bill which will do little to improve the lives of anyone in this state. It may very well harm plenty of your constituents when they cannot attract employees to work or send their kids to school here. Please focus on issues that will benefit Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop legislating hate against our lgbtq family
02-12-2024
Lori Durian []
CON
LGBTQIA+ individuals have existed here in Iowa for decades without incident. What has changed to require the passage of the bill? What is the state's interest in passing this bill other than to simply foment hate. What an incredible waste of time when there are real issues that need to be addressed in the state the nitrates in our waterways, the rising rates of cancer, and our failing bridges just to name a few. Not to mention how utterly unconstitutional this bill is. Your duty is the serve the people of the State of Iowa. We don't want, nor do we need, this bill.
02-12-2024
JoEllen Bunch []
CON
This HATE bill is just like what the Nazis did in World War II. We cannot be this way. History will show us to be as hateful as they were.
02-12-2024
Aiyanna []
CON
I urge you to vote NO on this bill. We have seen an increase in harmful bills towards trans people in our country and especially in our state. We have seen an increase in anti lgbtq+ bills shocking considering Iowa was one of the first states to legalize samesex marriage. Our state was first in many things, but a little over a decade we have seen more and more bills harming iowans. Especially over the past several and more recent years. Trans Iowans deserve to feel safe in our state. They deserve to live their lives in peace. Creating these bills only causes them more harm, and fear in their day to day lives. Its hard enough living as a trans person and LGBTQ+ during these times, but every day we fear for our safety, if well be able to get gender affirming care, whether well be allowed in one place or not, if well be respected in our homes and schools, and the list goes on. On this bill there is no check box for those who are intersex. No check box for those who are nonbinary. This bill would out those who are not out to the public, to their friends or family. This would be dangerous and put those at risk. Making separate identification and markers for trans people seems oddly familiar if we take a look at history and current times of governments making a certain group of people wear pieces of clothing or having markers on their identification as a way separate them from people who are considered normal human beings. During these times the LGBTQ+ community has been villainized, seen as less than human, and its terrifying for a lot of people not just LGBTQ+ living in this country. These a people with lives. Who have families to care and provide for.If you care about Iowans, vote NO. Protect the children. Protect the youth. Protect the LGBTQ+ community. We deserve to live full and happy lives. At the end of the day we are people just like any other person, trying to survive and make ends meet.
02-12-2024
Christy McNeal []
CON
Focus on setting SSA for education on time vs creating problems where there arent problems. Let people live their lives and love who they want to love!
02-12-2024
Carol Wehr [none]
CON
Maybe the legislature should worry about nursing home abuse, nursing shortage, lack of mental health providers and inpatient facilities. And Gov.Reynolds you DO represent ALL iowans just not white heterosexual Iowans.
02-12-2024
Rhonda Miller []
CON
Dont erase LGBTQ+ Iowans!
02-12-2024
Lindsay Park []
CON
Stop creating problems for people with legislation instead of solving existing problems. And stop attacking vulnerable people.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I wholeheartedly encourage our governor in support of this bill. Confusion only produces more confusion and it is extremely evident that our state and our nation desperately needs Truth. Feelings cannot supersede fact. To imply that they can is to propagate and encourage more delusion. Our nation is facing a crisis of mental delusions and disorders and we must return to Truth!
02-12-2024
Amy Stickrod []
PRO
I do not wish to live in a state that continues to push an agenda of persecution and hate. No one forces anyone to become transgender,or homosexual,or bisexual, or anything else. Yet, Evangelicals and others who fear anything or anyone they don't understand to conform to their standards. LGBTQ+ human beings are NOT threatening your way of life, so stop threatening theirs. How about acting like the "Christians" you claim to be. How about some bills that address feeding the hungry,providing housing and clothing for the poor and homeless, and addressing the huge shortage of psychiatric services in our state.
02-12-2024
Rachel Martin []
CON
Why are we doing so much to erase the LGTBQ+ community instead of helping them? There are so many great people in this community and they have done nothing to deserve being erased. We all have the same rights and you should focus on protecting everyone's rights and not just the people that look like you and share your same beliefs.
02-12-2024
Leah Plath [DSM Peoples Pride]
CON
This bill is discriminatory and unnecessary you cannot legislate queer people and their experiences and lives out of existence. There are millions of other things to spend your time on that actually help and improve the lives of Iowans, this is not one of them.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
How about taking care of our fellow Iowans instead of seeking to bully and erase?
02-12-2024
Kathi Arnold []
CON
I am solidly against this bill as it will force me to act against my religion as a Christian. Erasing the LGBTQIA+ community is preventing people from living as God has created each of them, in his image. Additionally, as a health care professional, I am very concerned about the unsafe environment this bill creates for the LGBTQIA individuals in Iowa. I strongly urge representatives to seek additional research about the false risks and unsubstantiated fear they are using to advance an antiChristian AND anti trans/anti gay agenda.
02-12-2024
Rick Leyendecker [None]
CON
It is really hard to believe people of this state were early to recognize same sex marriages. Now we have become a true MAGA state with all the hate that entails. Why?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The newest version of the LBGTQ+ erasure bill would erase transgender and nonbinary Iowans from state code while also causing issues for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children. This is discrimination and Iowans dont want it. As a cis white woman living in Iowa I am strongly AGAINT this bill! This does not represent Iowans and I would be ashamed to live here if such a bill was passed.
02-12-2024
Lisa Lima [National Alliance of Mental Illness]
CON
Our LGBTQ community members need our love, protection, and acceptance. Laws that counter their ability to live meaningful lives destructs a person's mental health.
02-12-2024
Apple Amos [Foodcorps]
CON
This bill is discriminatory. You can not legislate queer people out of existence we will continue. Iowa is one of the worst states for public lands, resources, hunger, etc and you waste our resources and time on the impossible task of legislating how people can exist and what they believe about themselves.
02-12-2024
Janice Hawkins [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
This legislative session has been touted as for the people. Just what people are you representing? Why would anyone want to cause the further ostracizing of a small segment of folks who actually need to maintain the protections they have? This issue hasnt arisen from the people. It comes from people who dont understand what it is like to walk in the shoes of a transgendered person & most importantly DOESNT WANT TO. Those supporting this bill need to reexamine their motives which on the surface, seem tied up with creating a lower class of people. Shame on you. I
02-12-2024
Kodie Esparza []
CON
We should be looking for ways to be inclusive rather than stripping rights of already an already at risk population.
02-12-2024
Annette J Yousse []
PRO
I am in support of properly defining these terms. It is a shame that it has come to this, but since it has, let's define these terms with the traditional definitions and require them to be used on legal documents. We have had enough!
02-12-2024
Amanda Greubel []
CON
This bill is oppressive and does nothing to improve the lives of Iowans or address the *real* concerns of this state such as healthcare access, strong education, and clean water.
02-12-2024
Chelsea Bassett Wachholz [LGTBQ+ rights ]
CON
I am writing to you today with a heavy heart concerning the current state of LGBTQ+ rights in Iowa. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a resident of this state, I am deeply troubled by the recent efforts to restrict the rights and freedoms of my friends and family who identify as LGBTQ+.I am writing to express my concern and solidarity with my loved ones who identify as LGBTQ+ and who call Iowa home. I am writing on behalf of not only myself, but also the countless individuals who cannot speak out due to fear of discrimination or persecution.The proposed legislation, particularly House File 2389 goes against the principles of equality and fairness that should be upheld in our society. These bills would allow business owners and service providers to deny services to individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This not only goes against the fundamental values of our nation, but it also creates a dangerous and discriminatory environment for the LGBTQ+ community.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
HF 2389 is a harmful bill that does not reflect the values of Iowa. The birth certificate and driver's license requirements in the bill force people to disclose private medical information for routine daily activities. Transgender folks deserve to feel welcome and safe in Iowa, and this legislation would instead segregate and endanger them. The bill is a government overreach and should not be allowed to pass.
02-12-2024
Korina Loudon []
CON
Republicans are pretty much known now as the party of HATE! Quit picking on people because they are different than you!No one is less than we are all equal. Stand up for people no matter how they identify they are humans just like you!Leave them alone!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is discriminatory and harmful to so many Iowans.
02-12-2024
Stephen Edward Waugh [Citizen ]
CON
I believe All people have the right to exist in peace and feel comfortable in who they are. I know several Trans people and I am also a proud gay man.
02-12-2024
Kristi Larsen []
CON
Stop the hate.
02-12-2024
Cyril Mandelbaum []
CON
Stop this hate!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Self]
CON
This bill is unnecessary and hurtful. Shame on those who proposed it and who vote for it.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to all proposed bills that will or may restrict and or eliminate any LGBTQ rights in Iowa.
02-12-2024
Lisa Bussard []
CON
Stop subjecting LGBTQ citizens to discrimination, hate, bullying and harassment.
02-12-2024
Mike Eilers []
CON
I am a registered republican and have always believed in limited government. What is the Republican Party doing trying to legislate religious beliefs. It is wrong and needs to stop.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Discrimination has no place in civil society. Iowa used to be a leader in protecting civil rights. Do not codify discrimination. Protect the rights of all. Protect the rights of our LGBTQ+ citizens.
02-12-2024
Natalie Gruss [Gruss Therapy Services]
CON
This bill is harmful to the LGBTQ community and has no purpose other than to cause emotional harm.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please stop trying to make life harder for people who just want to live happy as themselves. While maybe some dont agree with the views and values of LGBT+ culture, theres no need to impose unnecessary restrictions on them. Theyre not hurting anybody.The happier people are, the better theyd be to help the culture and community of the state of Iowa grow and prosper.
02-12-2024
Janice Binder [x]
CON
This is just plain wrong. Gender is not just a simple, binary, either/or biologic proposition. Science now looks at gender as more of a spectrum and involves many different genes. The number of genders is not definitive and depends on the context. Even genetically, there are more than just XX or XY genders. Some people are born with an extra X or extra Y chromosome. About 25 genes go into sex differentiation. Some people are born with both female and male genitalia, formerly known as intersex, now better described as DSD or differential sex development. About 2% of births have a congenital difference in chromosomes, hormones, gonads or genitals is different than what many people expect of males or females.Some of these infants are assigned male or female at birth (AMAB or AFAB). Many times, intersex babies assigned a particular gender at birth, are subjected to medical interventions to have their outward appearance conform to the gender chosen for them. These children can then grow up to feel as if they are in the wrong body, known as gender dysphoria.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [private citizen]
CON
I am opposed to this Bill. There are and have always been people who have gender identity challenges and for some reason our state has decided this is a major issue and that these individuals need to be further attacked and marginalized. Why? Show us some evidence this is even necessary. We have so many more important issues here, addressing lack of mental illness providers & treatment, fully funding PUBLIC education, addressing the need for child care. Thank you.
02-12-2024
Elizabeth Oâ??Loughlin [N/A]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. Everyone should be able to express themselves however they please and not be shamed for doing so. Lets be Iowans where we care about and love one another.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Voter ]
CON
Please do not move forward these discriminatory bills. Iowans deserve to live their lives without the government interfering simply for existing.
02-12-2024
Lucinda Hoskins []
CON
Protect our rights!
02-12-2024
Michael Platt []
CON
I have lived in Iowa for fifty years my parents are buried in Iowa I served and was sent overseas. My father fought in World War Two and his brother died in France fighting against Facism. You should all be ashamed of yourself and your promotion of Racism Bigotry and hate. You are not the Iowa I grew up in. You have become the Iowa of the 1950s that I have seen and hated. The segregation and racism and bigotry of that era against others and Americans not like the white supremacy era in that time. Have you not learned history and continue to do the bidding of Bigots Racists. Shame on you Chuck GRASSLEY you of all people who fought FACIST hmm where is your backbone. Im ashamed of claiming Iowa as my state now with a goverment bent on destroying FREEDOM and EQUALITY for ALL!! Shame
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Stop the hate
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Alcott]
CON
This bill is harmful and infringes on individuals equality and privacy.
02-12-2024
Liz George []
CON
I am a lifelong Iowan who came out in 1978! I've never experienced such a ridiculous and ongoing display of hate in my entire life. It is embarrassing to even say I'm from Iowa! I spoke the same night as Zach Wahls to a Legislative Committee, along with others, in 2007 I believe it was. We made so much progress, including Marriage Equality in 2009. To be where we are today is like being in the dark ages again, but even darker! WE WERE ALL CREATED EQUAL!!! This blatant, hateful discrimination has got to stop! This Governor is not in any way, shape, or form, governing for the people. She cares nothing about anything besides herself. OBVIOUSLY!
02-12-2024
Clark Smith []
CON
I have been a registered Republican for 44 years. I am a fifth generation Iowan. Please, please stop spending time on issues that affect personal preferences and in particular sexual preferences. Please focus on taxes, transportation, finances, healthcare and public safety and economic development. What a huge waste of my tax dollars being spent on these bills that are harming Iowans and keeping people from moving here and causing people to leave. If it werent for minorities our population would be seriously declining. Why do we want to scare more people away!? My wife works at a large company and they have seen people quit and moving to another state because of the proposed bills in this session relating to LBGQT. Plus taking time away from the much more important items listed above. We need to be welcoming and accepting of everyone. Thats the state I want to live in and the state I grew up in. I will not support anyone that votes to advance these bills further even if they are a Republican.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am vehemently against this bill! More harm will be caused by this! The emotional toll is already significantly higher for LGBTQ+ children and adults. I honestly think this is discriminatory in basis. This is not welcoming and causes pain for Iowans. Stop hurting people!!
02-12-2024
John B Zamojski []
CON
It is a violation of someone's human rights not to respect their gender identity and or sexual orientation. People who are straight and heterosexual have no idea what it is like to fight for your existence every day and just be seen and respected and treated equally under the law. They are afforded so much more privilege than those of us who are gay lesbian bisexual or transgender. It's easy to try and erase people from your legislature when you're not one of those people. I'm extremely against this legislation.
02-12-2024
Candella Foley- Finchem []
CON
No Hate in Iowa code.If you don't understand something, learn more Accor it don't legislate hate towards our fellow iowans
02-12-2024
Dillon [Private citizen]
CON
I find this legislation disgusting and a waste of time and taxpayer dollars do something with that surplus like buy and forgive medical debt like michigan did. Do something productive for fucksake.
02-12-2024
Jason Gavin [Iowa City School Teacher]
CON
This bill is nothing but hatred. The majority of Iowans do not want it and did not ask for it. Listen to the people of the state, the people who voted for you and get rid of this bill. Work on bills that help all Iowans, not bills that discriminate and push hatred against others!
02-12-2024
Rachel Regenold [N/a]
CON
I do not support the bill.
02-12-2024
Melissa Rogers [Self]
CON
What will this actually accomplish that betters the lives of Iowans? It seems like this is just performing for your base at the risk of the safety of others and contrary to the loving your neighbor I hear but dont see. Maybe do some actual good like addressing the sharp increase of cancer risk for Iowans?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I love Iowa. Im an 8th generation Iowan and Ive lived here my whole life. This bill and the values behind it do not represent the state I know. As a woman, I find it frankly appalling that this is being billed as a Womens Bill of Rights. Are there ways womens rights could be improved in Iowa? For sure but this bill absolutely doesnt do that. The only thing this bill does is strip rights from one of our most vulnerable communities. Even if this bill did do anything for women, rights for one group should NEVER come at the expense of another groups rights. And again, as an Iowa woman, these are not the rights I want, and Id be ashamed if this bill were to pass for my sake.
02-12-2024
Stephanie Caffrey [None]
CON
This bill is a waste of time and it dehumanizes an entire group of people. What this bill does is no different than what the Nazis did in Germany during WWII.
02-12-2024
Dawn Hinds [None]
PRO
I believe in LGBQ rights
02-12-2024
Kendra McCauley []
CON
Please focus your time doing work Iowans voted you into office for, not to please the governor. And have the balls to campaign on these bill issues if thats what youre actually running for. You represent ALL Iowans whether you like it or not, and should be ashamed of yourselves for not focusing on business most Iowans are expecting you to do.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [resident]
CON
I am firmly opposed to this harmful bill. It is a bad idea and the wrong direction for Iowa to head in. It is discriminatory and damaging to residents who have made their homes here.
02-12-2024
Kim Callahan [self]
CON
This legislation is harmful and unnecessary. It will hurt Iowans. Stop legislating hate.
02-12-2024
J Fifield []
CON
I oppose this unnecessary and meanspirited bill. Iowans are not demanding legislation like this because Iowans prefer an Iowa that is open and accepting of all human beings. An Iowa where legislators allow Iowans to live their lives without worrying that their essential humanity will be questioned by the State. Bills such as this serve only to distract from substantive issues of real concern to Iowans, such as clean water, protection against carcinogens, labor shortages, and availability of medical and child care in all Iowa communities. Please stop this bill before it progresses any further. Thank you.
02-12-2024
Jeff Couch []
CON
This bill is contrary to the wishes of most Iowans, contrary to the wisdom of most experts on the topic, and illconsidered with many potential ramifications waiting ahead should the legislature make the mistake of passing this legislation. I strongly urge you to vote against this.
02-12-2024
Diane Howe []
CON
Stop the hate & focus on our real issues facing Iowans
02-12-2024
Joane Amick []
CON
Please stop all these bills which are attacking theLGBTQ people. These are real people who just want to live their lives and be accepted for who they are, just like you and I want for ourselves and for our families.
02-12-2024
Martha Tabor []
CON
Iowa has a reputation of being kind and accepting "Iowa Nice" This attack on our LBGTQ+ citizens is hateful and will reduce the diversity in Iowa. Our young adults will have yet another reason to move away.
02-12-2024
Jeremy Brezovan []
CON
The Governor's attempt to frame the intent of this bill as "common sense" only underscores her contempt for actual biology, psychology, and other established sciences that recognize the variety and reality of human existence. This bill erases the legal existence of my trans and nonbinary friends and neighbors, and it cannot pass.I was born and raised in Iowa. I can't imagine growing up or living in Iowa now, and having so much utter hate directed at me for no valid reason. Even when I was young and in the closet, things never felt as toxic as the Iowa GOP has made them in recent years. History will not look upon them kindly.
02-12-2024
Terry Bates []
CON
Republicans are driving good, intelligent citizens out of our state because of your bigotry and hatred. Its time to treat ALL Iowans with respect and dignity.
02-12-2024
Denise Rathman [National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter]
CON
The National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter is opposed to HF 2389On page 1, lines 17 through 21, the bill states that 17.A person born with a medically verifiable diagnosis of18.disorder or difference of sex development shall be provided the19.legal protections and accommodations afforded under the federal20.Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and applicable state21.law.Certainly, a person born with a medically verifiable diagnosis of disorder or difference of sex development could be protected by the ADA for other reasons, but just being a a person born with a medically verifiable diagnosis of disorder or difference of sex development is not an automatic disability under the ADA. Earlier this session, during a full committee meeting on an entirely different topic, a state legislator asked what else could be done to recruit and retain a highly trained workforce for our state. Perhaps the legislature should consider decreasing the level of hostility they are perpetuating legislatively when they write bills that specifically target vulnerable and historically marginalized groups of people and their families.
02-12-2024
Tim Gossett []
CON
I find the fact that the Iowa Legislature would take up this bill utterly appalling and a complete waste of time. We have real problems in Iowa to deal with healthy waterways, climate smart agriculture, underfunding of public schools, kids who don't have enough food, terrible mental healthcare, and so many more. For legislators to waste even one moment on a bill like this which benefits no one, is opposed by many in the medical profession, and has the potential to harm many is truly sad. My gender, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs have no bearing on my ability to see that this is an immoral bill that targets vulnerable Iowans, but sadly it is apparently important that I clarify that I say this as a straight, white male who is Christian. I urge our leaders to have common sense and reject this bill.
02-12-2024
Lisa Riggin []
CON
Please consider the wellbeing of individuals who are born into a body that doesn't match who they are. There is no greater harm than being forced to live a life that is not authentically yours.
02-12-2024
Raechel Sittig-Esser []
CON
The attempt of this legislation to remove civil rights and dignity from any group of people is at best misguided, and at worst completely heinous and intentionally hurtful. I stand strongly against legislation that seeks to strip any person of their civil rights and dignity, and I strongly urge the legislature to abandon any proposed legislation to do just that.
02-12-2024
Lindsay M [None]
CON
I am utterly opposed to HSB 649, and I cannot overstate the gravity of the issues it presents. This bill, under the guise of administrative measures, seeks to strip away the privacy and dignity of transgender individuals by mandating that they disclose deeply personal information on official documents. Such a requirement not only violates basic human rights but also sets a dangerous precedent reminiscent of historical injustices.Forcing individuals to carry special designations on their IDs and birth certificates solely because of their transgender status is not only discriminatory but also opens the door to potential abuse and harm. It echoes the dark days of the past when marginalized groups were singled out and subjected to targeted discrimination. The comparison to the Nazi's pink triangles is chilling and should serve as a stark warning of the potential consequences of such legislation.Moreover, the bill's implications extend beyond the realm of personal privacy. By enshrining "separate but equal" into law, HSB 649 perpetuates systemic inequalities and sends a message of exclusion to the transgender community. It undermines efforts towards equality and inclusivity, making Iowa a less welcoming and safe place for all its residents.As someone deeply invested in the wellbeing of our community, I urge lawmakers to reject this bill unequivocally. Instead of wasting time and resources on divisive and harmful measures, our focus should be on addressing pressing issues such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Let us stand together against discrimination and bigotry, and work towards building a more just and equitable society for all. #NoToHSB649
02-12-2024
Teran Buettell [Citizen]
CON
Stop this senseless hatred! There is no reason, other than religion, to be against the LGBTQ community and it is decidedly unConstitutional to make laws based on religious beliefs! I learned about separation of church and state in elementary school! Isn't that why the Pilgrims came here, in the first place? You, who are so quick to condemn Sharia law, are creating exactly that, on American soil! Stop already!!!!
02-12-2024
Patricia Hogan [State Cotizen]
CON
This bill nullifies the existence of REAL people. It reduces them to a statistic. For the life of me, I cannot understand why the Republican legislature cannot just let people be people. This bill is morally wrong.
02-12-2024
Sara Hughes []
CON
This is a reprehensible bill that needs to be stopped. We are driving away Iowans to other states. No one will want to move here to raise their family with these laws of homophobia on the books. Please listen to your constituents & dont fall into lockstep with the governor. This bill spreads hate. We need to do better.
02-12-2024
Chase Meester []
CON
The fact that we are debating whether or not human beings should have rights is absurd, all humans on this planet are entitled to equal rights, and the government shouldn't have the power to take it away.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
People of the LGBTQ+ community deserve rights just like any other American, STOP TRYING TO TAKE THEM AWAY. They just want to exist happily same as anyone else.
02-12-2024
Sheryl Nichols []
CON
I fear we are turning Iowa from a place that was once welcoming to all and top in the country in education, to one that is becoming filled with closed minds and hatred. We are not only hurting the once vibrant state that was a great example to everyone across the country, but we are sending a message that anyone who doesnt fall into the category of conservative Christian is not welcome here. These closedminded positions will only serve to the detriment of Iowa for generations to come. I am deeply saddened and finding it much more difficult to be proud to be an Iowan or encourage young family members to go into education (something that has been a strong career path in our family). Now is your chance to stand up for what is right for EVERYONE, not just the loud few or a Governor who wants her way regardless of what that means. Listen to what your constituents are saying with open hearts and open minds. The ones you may end up hurting in the end are your children and grandchildren.
02-12-2024
Wesley Brueland []
CON
Stop spending our tax dollars on discrimination and focus instead on enabling all of our citizens.
02-12-2024
Pat Wilson []
CON
76yearold boomer here. Frankly these bills are TOTAL BULLSHIT. I don't mince words. The Iowa GOP is a group of misogynist, racist, homophobes with your heads up your ASSES including the racist prejudiced excuse for a governor. My disrespect for ALL of you is BOUNDLESS. You DO NOT represent most of Iowa. I am embarrassed by you and your sanctimonious beliefs that you represent Iowans. YOU DO NOT. I pray for ugly karma to all of you. What you have done/are doing will be paid back at the ballot box. YOU TOTALLY SUCK.
02-12-2024
Emily Rayhons []
CON
Im opposed.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
Keep Hate out of Iowa!!
02-12-2024
Jonathan Loveless [Baptist Church]
PRO
Taking a wide angle view on history, society, culture, and science. It is without question that sanity can only be maintained through upholding objective truth! These ideas of subjectivity and moral relativism are toxic and not in keeping with the Average man. For this reason, I support the movement of this bill!
02-12-2024
Kristen Slater-Scott [private citizen]
CON
Do you all realize that you are no better than Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany. Wanting to label, permanently identify and remove the LGBTQ community. Iowa you are a disgrace.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
As a 20 year old whos proudly lived in Iowa all her life, the threat of antiLGBT+ bills terrify me. This is not what Iowans want.
02-12-2024
Alden Ross []
CON
This bill is an embarrassment to the state of Iowa. It serves no purpose other than to bully, spread fear, and discriminate against an already marginalized community. It proposes unnecessary solutions to problems that do not exist and is a waste of government time and money. LGBTQ+ Iowans deserve far better than this.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is discriminatory and hateful. Do not vote to pass this bill
02-12-2024
Jess Krob []
CON
We need to stop finding reasons to hate and discriminate. You have bigger issues to be spending time on than antiLGBTQ+ legislation that erases individual rights. Do better and stop the hate.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Nine]
CON
Please do away from gate fir those who are different from the majority
02-12-2024
Jeremy Richardson [None]
CON
This is just another blatant attempt by the cowards that should be representing us to, instead, use their authority to bring hate to a group of people. Literally nothing is accomplished from this legislation other than exposing how big of cowards our representatives are. Our state is better than this. The people here are better than this. Stop using your own insecurities as an excuse to hate people.
02-12-2024
Patricia Benson [NA]
CON
Protect all Iowans, no to antiLBGTQ legislation.
02-12-2024
Jacob Cranston []
PRO
I support HF3289 to defend the Natural Law
02-12-2024
Amber Beitzel [None ]
CON
This is state sponsored hate and focuses on solving problems that aren't real. Please do something to help starving or homeless folks instead of interfering in peoples privacy
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop this madness, Gov Reynolds and Republicans and, start treating others as you would like to be treated, love others more than yourselves and love all equally.You are no better than any other person,stop acting like it, you should all be ashamed of yourselves, start listening to people and to God.
02-12-2024
Mary Ferguson []
CON
I am against the LBGTQ Eraser Bills!Discrimination is wrong on any level! Shame on those who put these bills forward!Separation of Church and State has always been good for our Democracy! This happened in Europe against the Jews and other groups including LBGTQ groups. What is wrong with our elected officials?STOP This now, wake up because other groups will be next,Maybe white males, farmers, so called Christians with no moral compass. Iowa gas bigger issues to deal with! Do your jobs and stop following a Fascist leader.
02-12-2024
Stacy Kluesner []
CON
I am the Mother of a transgender child, who I am incredibly proud of! We are a typical family of 5. My husband and I will be married 30 years in November, both employed in longterm jobs, who volunteer frequently in our community. We have 3 children, our oldest a Naval Officer, our middle an honors student at Iowa State who plans to attend Law School and our youngest, Evan. Evan plans to attend college next year and major in business and ultimately sell realestate. Evan has been active in Cross Country, Track and Show Choir, has held the same job for 2 years. Evan is a wellloved child, grand child, sibling and friend. Our Evan turned 18 this last Saturday and truly, has battled from the beginning of Elementary School to find their true self. I feel so blessed that this sweet, smart, beautiful child is ours and most importantly, is still alive. There have been many days, months, and years that we weren't sure that would be the case. This child has been relentlessly bullied and, although an incredibly strong young person now, still is today. I firmly believe that by passing all of this ridiculous legislation, will only create more opportunities for bullying throughout their life. It just simply isn't ok for the great state of Iowa to encourage and perpetuate the hatred and misunderstanding that exists. Life is hard, for all of us why implement laws that are unnecessary and make it more difficult for those who already face many challenges?My child's gender and transition is not a disability nor does it cause harm to ANYONE, it is just simply living their life as their true self. For many years, I worked with and on behalf of people with disabilities. I know that a person with a diagnosis or label of any kind is no less of a human than any of the rest of us, but the reality is, many people do think so. Regardless of disability rights, it's a battle that individuals & families fight daily. This battle does not need to include those Iowans who are transgender. Their fights are many, there is much discrimination without adding permission from the State of Iowa to do so. I implore you to think about the people this legislation would adversely effect, my child and so many others that are daughters, sons, brothers, sisters, moms, dads, friends, colleagues, aunts, uncles valued humans! There is truly no danger to anyone in society because of someone's transition. Please stop the state sponsored hatred.
02-12-2024
Shawna Riggins [Individual ]
CON
I oppose HF2389. This bill seeks to divide and deride Iowans. The job of legislators is to work to improve life for Iowans, but this will help no one. It only wastes legislature time, energy, and money. Regardless of your personal beliefs, focus on helping Iowans and drop this bill. Focus on getting us some clean water.
02-12-2024
Amy Fickbohm []
CON
I stand firmly against this bill!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
We have actual problems to solve. This is not one of them. This is discrimination (not to mention a huge a waste of time and resources) and Iowans dont want it.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
If you wish to eradicate LGBTQ peoples rights because of a religious belief, the state cannot (and should not) make that happen. Not everyone is a Christian, and not everyone conforms to this specific ideology within Christianity itself. If you wish to stop teachers from mentioning any form of sexual orientation, then they cannot mention their spouses/children/grandchildren due to heterosexuality. Because a child can infer how that spouse/child/grandchild came to be. And dont forget about teaching ANY book with heterosexuality mentionedAny finally, what happens after the mention of these people and their rights are eradicated? Will the people themselves be eradicated? Something tells me that bill isnt too far behind
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Do NOT vote for this legislation. It is dismissive and discriminatory of those in the LGBTQ+ community. It sets a bad precedent and provides the opportunity for misuse, segregation, and discrimination.This should not be approved.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
We should be doing more to be inclusive instead of going backwards and inciting hate with these types of laws. This does not represent what the people of Iowa want.
02-12-2024
Jacob Rodgers [University of Iowa]
CON
Hey all, Writing to demand that you vote no to HF 2389 and stop trying to erase LGBTQ+ Iowans. I do not support this bill in any capacity and it will only seek to further deny people their full humanity. Thank you, Jake Rodgers
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
As a physician, I've seen firsthand the emotional damage that occurs from othering people based on their sexuality and/or gender identity. Legislating this will only lead to further opportunities for discrimination.
02-12-2024
MIchael and Rebecca LeDuc []
CON
HF2389 Comment 2/12/24:Human sexuality is complex, and like other scientific fields, our understanding of sexuality now is much more advanced than it was 50 years ago and it continues to evolve. This bill is based on an outdated understanding of human sexuality. It wrongly conflates biological sex and gender identity by treating them as synonymous, when in fact, they are two different things. It is the combination of biological sex and gender identity that defines an individuals sex.The biological sex of an individual is determined by several physical identifiers including but not limited to chromosomes, genitals, gonads, hormones and internal body systems (reference: any modern biology textbook).Gender identity is socially constructed and refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being masculine or feminine in a particular society. It varies from society to society over time and is distinct from biological sex. (source, any modern dictionary).This bill assumes that a persons sex is defined by their biological sex alone when their sex is actually a combination of both biological sex and their gender identity. This bill harms trans people because their biological sex may not match their gender and it forces them to function with an identity incongruous to who they actually are. It is unconscionable that in 2024 we would erase transgender rights that have been protected by the Iowa Civil Rights Code since 2007.Michael and Rebecca LeDuc
02-12-2024
Mathew Martinez []
PRO
VOTE NO!!! There is absolutely no need for a bill so incredibly hateful. If youre actually pro life, then do your job and take care of your people. I have so many family members who have been lifelong republicansuntil now. You are pushing your own supporters far away from you and causing them to vote democrat for the first time in their lives. If you pass these bills, people will die. Blood will be on your hands. We will never sit back and be quiet over this. Do what you know is right and VOTE NO!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Private citizen]
CON
Let the people be already! People will be who they want to be and that individuality is a huge part of what makes us humans. Who are we to assign the terms sex or gender to anyone?? They are just words, after all. Maybe Merriam and Webster got the definitions wrong.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I say got no to this blatant discrimination, against a group that already experiences so much.
02-12-2024
Randy Black [Iowa Democratic Wing Ding]
CON
The Govenor and her regime have been trying to destroy the Lives of all LGBTQs rights. Im am a happily gay man married to my Husband. I do not tread lightly when there screwing without marriage. Further more gay couples should have the right to be parents, when it comes down to gender, its the individual thats should be happy in there own skin Govenor Reynolds needs to go, and her cronies need to go with her
02-12-2024
Jean McDonald [private citizen]
CON
VOTE NO FOR HSB 2389, an act that is at the least riddled with scientific inaccuracy and prejudice, and most significantly a dangers to the lives, lives, the health, and the freedoms of LGBTQ+ citizens, who enrich our families, our communities, and members of our leadership. The bill proposes unprecedented and shocking measures that blatantly forecast political desire for a return to "separate but equal," and promotes violence with proposals that would result in unprecedented inequity and infringement on privacies protected in the larger population.
02-12-2024
Jim Johnson [N/A]
CON
Do we really have nothing better to do as a society than create all of these meaningless bills aimed at making it easier to discriminate againsr already discriminated individuals? Following Citizens United precedent logic that corporations are people, will all businesses be required to register as a particular binary gender when they are incorporated?Bills like these are a waste of time and taxpayer money. Please spend less time trying to marginalize people through legislation and focus those efforts on actually helping our citizens and youth.
02-12-2024
Joseph Brown []
PRO
The greatest threat to the next generation is stripping away the security and confidence of knowing who and what they are. Science, biology, nature, natural law, common sense, and most importantly the Bible support this bill. God is not the author of confusion. I encourage each of you to have courage and do the right thing. Vote for this bill!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a bill that will directly and negatively affect many Iowans and their families (and continue to give Iowa a bad name nationally). Please consider actually protecting our children (and adults) by allowing people to have their gender identities reflected on official documents and continue to exist safely. There's significant research that suggests that allowing people to live in their preferred identities (without forcing them into male/female categories according to their birth assignment) is healthier and safer for those individuals and thus the surrounding community. Make the right choice, save lives of Iowans, and let trans, nonbinary, and all other LGBTQ+ people live in peace.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is incredibly one sided, short sighted, and overall frivolous. It is an unjust and an unnecessary measure meant to undermine the very real struggles of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Iowans are better than this.
02-12-2024
Jane Balvanz []
CON
The proposed bill seeks to nullify and discredit transgender individuals. It endeavors to define people by law and mandate instead of trusting what the individual knows and believes about themselves. This is Big Brother law.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Riggs []
CON
Stop legislating hate! We need to be a more inclusive state!
02-12-2024
Brette Deaton []
CON
I urge a vote against this bill. It is a violation of privacy as well as government overreach to police a person's gender and how their doctor treats them for gender dysphoria (which includes societal integration as their identified gender). Rigidly defining sex terminology will not only work to other and endanger trans people, but also affect cis people who may not meet the qualifications. The rationale behind this is also assumptive and theoretical. Far more children are harmed by their church leaders than have ever been harmed in single sex spaces. This kind of government policy is exclusionary for the sole reason of discrimination and harms people who have no impact on others besides wanting to live their lives. This solves for nothing, it only discriminates. Please do not support this. Thank you.
02-12-2024
Michael Ode [None]
CON
Stop being stupid Republican middle school bullies. Grow up and do your job.
02-12-2024
Brena Schwartz [Self]
CON
I DO NOT SUPPORT THIS LEGISLATION!!!
02-12-2024
Ariele Andalon []
CON
I am deeply saddened that the people of Iowa have to come back week after week to fight these nonsensical bills. Particularly, I am sad that trans, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, and/or intersex people have to continually show up to fight for their own right not to be legislated out of existence. But I know that no matter what the law says is right, the people will provide for one another. We will never let your transphobia go unchallenged.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I am in support of Governor Kim Reynolds and the common sense bill of HF 2389. As a mother of a young daughter, who has not been protected from males in places where fairness, privacy and security are necessary (ie sports, bathrooms, dressing rooms etc), I fully support the passing of this bill. We can no longer indoctrinate our young girls to disregard their intuitions and their needs for safety.
02-12-2024
Lexxis smith [Dem ]
CON
We cant hate people for what we dont understand. We need to educate ourselves and try to understand each other! Dont we have enough hate in our world already? If we keep showing people they dont matter watch crime rates and suicide rates sky rocket!
02-12-2024
Cindy Carrillo []
CON
Im against this bill that Governor Reynolds is proposing. Its harmful to the LGBTQ community which make up a large part of Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
It's getting sadder and sadder that Iowa is backing up in time.If the Governor won't do anything then the Senate and House must.
02-12-2024
Merriel Conde [None]
CON
This is statesponsored hate. Please vote no
02-12-2024
Quentin Misiag [No affiliate/concerned Iowan]
CON
The newest version of the proposed LBGTQ+ erasure by Gov. Reynolds and many Republicans bill would erase transgender and nonbinary Iowans from state code, effectively eliminating them from the public. In addition, this would open up a Pandoras box of issues for samesex parents, for which I hope to be one day (with the goal of raising children in Iowa). Full stop: This is statesponsored hate and lifelong Iowans like myself don't want it.As a proud gay man who loves Iowa, bills like these would cause further harm in the states ability to attract and retain top talent and businesses. We need to protect ALL Iowans and stand up to examples of hatred and discrimination like this!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
This is complete and utter discrimination used to advance a political agenda and nothing more. During a time when bullying has become an issue among our youth, this bill does nothing more than encourage bullying.
02-12-2024
Kendra Starkey []
CON
We are better than this! Please, I beg of you to say NO to any bill which discriminated against a person who doesnt fit the mold youve deemed acceptable. STOP the HATE!
02-12-2024
Jeff Warren []
CON
Please stop harassing our LGBTQ+ citizens. As the parent of a transgender child I find it distressing that our governor is so hell bent on legislating against this alreadyvulnerable group of people. You cannot legislate transgendered people out of existence. The insistence of this administration to try to do just that is shameful and embarrassing.
02-12-2024
John Bonsall []
CON
As a traditional Iowan I support traditional values like Freedom and Liberty and Big Government minding their own business. This is why I strongly oppose this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Let's think Iowa a welcoming state, not a hateful state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
STOP this state sponsored HATE and intolerance!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to the bill against LBGT community they are people also just like mentally and physically disabled individuals and the State has no right to discriminate against any group of people that is pure hatred and racism.
02-12-2024
Robin Maharry []
CON
What happened to Iowa nice? Stop the hate!!
02-12-2024
PEGGY PEARSON [none]
CON
Stop your madness All people are equal
02-12-2024
Zak Buffington []
CON
This bill directly endangers all of those who identify as LGBTQ+. For a party who strongly boasts of individual freedom, I would have hoped for a more empathetic view towards those who already face so much oppression.
02-12-2024
Alissa Philipp []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill.
02-12-2024
Steven McCauley []
CON
I always thought Iowa was a state for opportunity for everyone. Seems like now if your white, rich and thinks they are good christians your in. Pathetic
02-12-2024
Megan Thibodeau []
CON
This is discrimination and I alongside so many other caring Iowans dont want it. I stand as an ally with my many loved ones representing the LGBTQ+ population of our state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
As a business owner in Des Moines, a Public school parent of DMPS, and a resident of Des Moines, I am deeply concerned about bills like this whose sole purpose seems to be harassing, outing, and degrading LGBTQ individuals in this state. We have so many other priorities that would benefit the people of Iowa (mental health funding and childcare to name a few) instead of this nonsense. Shame on Kim Reynolds and every Republican lawmaker that is supporting discriminatory legislation such as HF 2389. No wonder we are having a problem keeping businesses in this state when we already have a population that is shrinking and our lawmakers are focused on making Iowa a less welcoming place to live.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a horrible abuse of power by our governor. We are not second rate citizens. We are productive members of society and deserve the rights As our heteronormal counterparts. Anything else is a violation of our civil rights.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop hate.
02-12-2024
Trevor Burke []
CON
This hatred and dehumanization of the LGBTQ community needs to stop. It is not a disability to be LGBTQ. Iowa can do better.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. As an LGBTQ+ cis woman, I feel the rights of my community are being threatened more and more every day in the United States. We are people. People who deserve privacy, respect, and affirming healthcare. I believe that this bill is rooted in the misconception that trans people are to be feared, judged, and othered within our society. This bill would only create another point of dysphoria for trans people, and another way for transphobes to identify and potentially harm trans people. It is my opinion that there is no legal, medical, or moral reason to denote the gender that someone was assigned at birth on vital records. This bill aims to "solve" a problem that does not exist. We should be focusing on how to protect members of this community, not protect the world from us. We are not a threat we are simply trying to exist comfortably. The LGBTQ+ community is so full of love and acceptance, and it's absolutely soul crushing to see my peers with such wonderful qualities being treated with so much hate and animosity.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote against this antiinclusive bill and protect all our citizens. This is hateful and discriminatory and has no place in our state.Lets focus instead on important things like clean water and affordable healthcare, child care and food assistance.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support protecting women by legislation from males invading all women defined sports, public spaces and Title 9 protecting biological women
02-12-2024
LM Fendt [G-N School Board]
CON
I am appalled by the meanspiritedness of our state government. Republicans are supposed to be all about "local control", but then they (or the governor) take away federally funded extra weeks of unemployment payments, refuse federal money to fund parents of kids in free/reduced lunch programs so they can buy groceries for those kids during the summer, and have passed or tried to pass laws to keep parents from being able to make decisions about their child's health care, especially if it's gender affirming. Local control is fine only until the city, the local library, the local school or small business has different priorities than the governor or the stateor big business. Right now, it seems like pigs have more rights in Iowa than people do. Why won't our elected officials spend time figuring out how to erase a few pigs instead of legislating LGBTQ+ people out of existence in Iowa?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Why are we devolving into such a hateful state? & to everyone claiming its how God made us, whatever happened to separation of church & state? Why are your beliefs more valid than others? Im ashamed that my state legislature seems set to revert back to the 1950s & undo progress that has been made since then.
02-12-2024
Joseph [Clarine]
PRO
I've been a registered Republican all of my life, and these bills that are targeting people is such a disgrace to the Iowan Republican Party. Thank you Governor Reynolds for showing us your true colors. You will never get my vote.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support this bill.Not long ago, these definitions were extremely selfevident. It is time for commonsense to prevail and if that requires formal definitions of terms that we all know to be true, then so be it.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Discrimination at any point against any human or person is a direct stand against every aspect that is The UNITED States of America. We deem ourselves the greatest country on earth yet the only thing we are great at is driving ourselves back to the days of segregation and dont ask dont tell. I hope for all humans that one day there is no question about who has the right to be themselves, to get married or to raise a family as that is the American Dream.
02-12-2024
Lynn McCallum [Private party]
CON
Stop legislating hate!
02-12-2024
Amy Davison []
CON
It is difficult to live here. In a state that constantly attacks queer and trans Iowans. In a state that used to be known for our forward thinking, and one of the first's to accept and embrace our diversity and differences to now where it is full of hate, division and unwelcoming rhetoric. Everyone belongs in Iowa, as a life long resident I believe this our differences make us stronger. Queer and trans people belong in Iowa. Please to not pass this bill. It is hateful, discriminatory, and in violation of basic human rights.
02-12-2024
Lynn Madsen []
CON
Please use your time and energy to help Iowans with truly important issues such as health insurance, affordable housing, jobs and things that truly make a difference in each and everyones lives.
02-12-2024
Carmen Golay [Lifelong Iowan]
CON
No. Strong opposition to this bill as it doesnt help Iowans. Please refocus the legislature on fixing actual problems not these bills designed to disenfranchise specific groups.
02-12-2024
Julie Fee []
CON
Why is this law necessary? If the push is for smaller government, why do we suddenly need legislation for something that hasn't been a problem? It's just another way to harass people who don't fit the GOP's definition of "normal"; straight, white, Christians.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is not something we need to be wasting time on. These people are not hurting anyone. Let's solve some real problems.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Iowa should not promote hate & this bill is hateful towards lgtbq people of our state.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Since when is it a legislature's responsibility or right to legislate how people live their personal lives because "religious" beliefs and/or unrealistic situations are involved. Not everyone has the same religious beliefs; they should not be legislated in response to the minority opinion. People should be allowed to live their lives, especially when they don't actually interfere with the lives of others. The antiquated beliefs about LGBTQ+, again based on religious beliefs or fear of what "could" be but there is no proof it is definitive problem. A person's sexuality is their own private business.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
There has been no major news stories about a failure of the current civil rights law, there is no reason to change it other than as a targeted attack against trans people
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Iowa has a brain drain issue and intolerant and unnecessary bills like this will only encourage more young people to leave the state. My two children will leave as soon as their graduate level studies are done and they wont return unless the climate of intolerance and hate fades away. Weve already lost friends who have fled for more welcoming and inclusive states. How about focusing legislative efforts on water conservation issues after 4 years of drought?
02-12-2024
Meg Schaeffer [Aperio]
CON
This bill is an unnecessary abomination. I will move my family and my business out of this state if you pass this bill. There are five doctors in my family FIVE and we will leave this state if you pass this legislation. We will encourage others to do the same.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Self]
CON
We should be supporting everyones rights, not eliminating or erasing them from existence. This goes against everything this country stands for, and what we have been taught as humans/Christians to be. Stop choosing hate when you are uncomfortable or do not understand someone else instead choose love and acceptance. It does not eliminate any of your rights as a cisgender heterosexual person to allow others the same rights because they are different from you.
02-12-2024
Amy Jones [NA]
CON
This bill is hateful bigotry and has no place in Iowa. I strongly urge representatives to vote against it.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
Con Oppose
02-12-2024
Dulce Escorcia [N/A]
CON
Passing this bill will hurt countless people in our state, as well as drive away potential future Iowans. As less and less people are protected in Iowa, less and less people are keen to live in this state. This is a shame because Iowa could be a flourishing state full of families, funded schools for their children to attend, and a loving and welcoming community. Iowa does not have to be the dying state that bills like this are creating. Trans Iowans have been under attack for over a year for merely existing. We have done nothing to hurt those around us, yet remain the scapegoat for everyones perversions and actions. Please consider the ways that this bill will hurt trans Iowans there is already so much stigma around being trans. This also will be affecting intersex people, whose existence cannot be boiled down to man or woman based on their genitalia. Even people who one may consider cisgender can have slight variation in genitalia, reproductive systems, and/or hormones. A cis woman may get labeled as a man if her genitalia is too big. Overall, this bill is ridiculous and only seeks to single out and further put ALL Iowans in danger of transphobic attacks.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The Governor is trying to force her radical policies on the people of Iowa. This has to stop.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
This bill is absolutely awful. It is not well worded and, aside from inviting discrimination and hatred, will open up the Iowa government to lawsuits challenging its' legality which the state is almost certain to lose. I completely oppose this bill.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The newest version of the LBGTQ+ erasure bill would erase transgender and nonbinary Iowans from state code while also causing issues for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children. This is discrimination and Iowans dont want it. We need to protect all Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this bill as it discriminates against a small and marginalized group of Iowans who are just trying to live their lives.
02-12-2024
Jeremy J Guenther []
CON
This does not help Iowa. This hurts Iowans and makes things more difficult for people that are already facing unique challenges. It's outrageous that Iowa has regressed to the point of introducing separate but equal legislation in 2023 and the governor should be ashamed of herself. The sustained attacks on trans Iowans are hurting people that I know and care about.
02-12-2024
Alanna Levin [ALL FAMILIES MATTRR]
CON
Our daughter identifies at a member of the LGBTQ community. Shes a highly educated healthcare provider at Brigham Womens in Boston, MA. She WAS considering moving back to Iowa to continue her compassionate care in our rural areas.a much needed profession!! She is rapidly reconsidering her decision with all the unjust, nonChristian rhetoric and politics. Actually, she is fearful about moving to a state where she would be judged by her label rather than by her value as a human being!!!!! VERY SAD!!!!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I support this bill that would legally define male and female based on their biological sex at birth. It is sad that this bill is even necessary, but it is time to protect boys and girls from being exposed to predators and confused individuals, who take advantage of whatever their "feelings" say they identify as. It is time to take a stand on basic biology, science (DNA), truth, and common sense.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
On behalf of my child and their friends, I advocate for their freedom. I advocate that the government mind their business and stay out of my childs private life. I am a Catholic (and have history of voting both parties) and believe all humans are beautiful souls and have their gifts to share to the world. Please do not oppress the beautiful lives of the LGBTQ community. Stop the fear and invite them to the table; you may even find that there are more commonalities than you have ever perceived. This bill is a cowardly grasp to control something thats out of all of our control. Embrace the paradox and find legislation that is productive for all Iowans.Reject HF2389
02-12-2024
Kris Dahlstrom []
CON
This is the most needless, useless bill. Why arent you doing something about our dirty water, high cancer rates, low funding for education. The Republicans say they are for less government but here you are trying to ban books, control libraries, ostracize so many people who just want to live. Just stop!!
02-12-2024
Kelsey Finch []
CON
I am a mental health therapist. I oppose this bill, as it would harm significantly certain individuals. This would have a negative impact on the lives of many people I serve and care about and negatively impact their mental health. It is unnecessary and harmful.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly disagree with singling out a group of people for discrimination.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
We need unity, not division. I have slowly seen the Iowa nice were supposed to be known for deteriorate as we try to pass more equal but separate laws. If we start making certain races, genders, and religions carry specific documents its no better than the Nazis branding Jews with the Star of David. Learn from history, dont repeat it. Why are we doing this to our fellow humans under the banner of religion, my God is accepting of all. He will judge the people at the end of their time, we are not to judge we are to love everyone.
02-12-2024
Pamela Mohr [N/A]
CON
I do not support HF 2389 which would legally define the terms "man" and "woman". This bill would cause issues for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children. It uses the highly discredited language of "separate but equal" to openly discriminate and would completely erase transgender Iowans from state code. This is a direct affront to the lives and liberties of Iowans. Citizens of our state are facing a multitude of concerns of much higher priority than this bill which targets our LGBTQ+ community members. Please vote 'NO'. Thank you.
02-12-2024
Meleah Cue [None]
CON
This bill is a travesty and is the exact kind of hate that we want to eradicate from the world.
02-12-2024
Kaitlin M Byers []
CON
I stand with all LGBTQ+ Iowans and am vehemently against these acts of discrimination that are coming out of the state house. Hateful bills like this one are forcing my friends and family members to flee the state of Iowa. Please cease these attacks on Iowans that we all know and love, and instead spend time fighting to protect our LGBTQ+ friends and family members ensuring they feel welcome here in our great state. These bills are in violation of human rights and are rooted in hate.
02-12-2024
Abs Wheeler [n/a]
CON
NO TO THIS BILL QUEER PEOPLE WILL NOT BE ERASED WE ARE LIVING BREATHING HUMANS WE WILL NOT BE ERASED
02-12-2024
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Please take into consideration all different types of people when you are making such drastic bills/changes as these. Understand how many people these changes will hurt and the large set back this is creating for all Iowans, not just those who it is directly impacting. This is the year 2024, why are you trying to regress and segregate people further when this is the time to create more equality!?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop hating on marginalized Iowans. Spend time on real issues.
02-12-2024
Paige Bouslog []
CON
I urge you to vote No on this bill. This type of discrimination is no different then discrimination due to race or disability and has no place in Iowa. I urge you to no to the antiLGBTQ+ bills that are being worked on. Iowa should be an inclusive place for ALL!
02-12-2024
Michelle Phillis [NA]
CON
I truly believe in small government. This is not it. Leave Vulnerable people alone.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
PRO
Please support the Governor's bill HF 2389! This is a much needed bill in the day and age that we live in. Defining these terms Biblically is very important!
02-12-2024
Jennifer Garner []
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, I am strongly opposed to this bill that erases an entire group of people. The government should have no role in gender identity or sexual orientation beyond offering protections to all humans. Stop the government overreach. All families, all people deserve basic protections and rights. Start focusing on real issues were facing in Iowa education, environment, kids leaving our state after they graduate, rural communities and farming. Take your pick, just stop picking on people!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is so wrong and not what the people of Iowa want or are about.
02-12-2024
Laura Berardi [parent]
CON
Spirit of Life, in your infinite wisdom you have made live more vast, more grand, more magnificent than we can comprehend. In your unending love and compassion, you have made life precious, and loving one another essential to caring for this web of existence. In your care, you have made this world a spectrum of possibility and abundance. Be with these lawmakers now and in the coming days. They are attempting to take on a role far above their station. Open their hearts to humbleness and humility. Remind them their role is not to define others' existence, but to help their fellow beings flourish. Their role is not to limit the beautiful spectrum you have created, but to open themselves up to all that this world is. Make them more curious, less full of contempt. Bring them patience to truly listen, and take from them the need to control others. Open their hearts to love, and remove the seed of distrustfulness and hate. Make them, truly, instruments of peace and mercy.
02-12-2024
Linda Mount [Citizen]
CON
I strongly oppose any and all legislation to erase any individuals identity or family.
02-12-2024
Mark Levin [All Families Matter]
CON
I use to be proud of being from Iowa. I am ashamed of our state with all the hatred and discrimination coming out of the state house. Our daughter from Boston was considering moving back to Iowa. However, with all the negative hate from the State of Iowa government she is probably NOT going to move back. She is a Nurse Practitioner and could be an asset to Iowa.
02-12-2024
Nick Phillis [N/a]
CON
Please solve real problems and stop making up fake issues.
02-12-2024
Becky Maddy Harker []
CON
You are creating a state from which many will flee due to your unchristian thoughts, statements and actions. Or, is that your intent?
02-12-2024
Doug McBride [Private cutizen]
CON
Hate has no place in our state. Dont know why this is happening, but STOP IT! I think a bill should be passed that limits the legislature to meeting every 2 years. You all have too much time and my dollars in your pocket.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a poorly thoughtout bill that will only hurt those already facing incredible and growing amounts of hate in our state. Legalized discrimination is disgusting and the lawmakers that put forth this bill, and the nearly 40 other bills that target the LGTBQ+ Iowans in this session, should be ashamed of themselves.
02-12-2024
Stacy Grooms [Therapeutic Alliance Iowa]
CON
This is not the Iowa I want to raise my kids in. I want my children to be safe and secure in the whole state, not just the liberal counties. Stop driving people out of the state with these horrible bills.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is abhorrent. Not only does this negatively effect LGBTQ Iowans, but forcing these definitions completely erase intersex Iowans as well. Iowa should not be forced to live under these bigoted laws.
02-12-2024
Deb Wiley []
CON
These culture wars against PEOPLE OF IOWA need to stop!Let's get to work on REAL ISSUES that affect all Iowans, like our drinking water. Second highest cancer rate in the country mean anything to you?
02-12-2024
Linda Cron [Self]
CON
LGBTQ need fair laws. Do not duscriminate.
02-12-2024
Megan McDonough []
CON
Please hear our cry! I can't be there in person to show my support, but HF 2389 is blatant discrimination and I implore you to allow ALL Iowans to maintain basic rights and freedoms guaranteed to us by the Constitution of The United States. There is so much hatred and privilege pouring out of our leadership please choose the right thing and help us stop these bills now!
02-12-2024
Jann Ream []
CON
These bills are not only legislated discrimination but totally unnecessary. What is the problem you are trying to solve with these bills? Transgender and LGTBQ individuals are no threat to anyone. They just want to live their lives in peace with the same government protections that everyone is entitled to. The stated fears that the bills are purported to address are just misinformation and false flags thrown up to justify the hate and discrimination against these individuals. Aren't there real problems the legislature should be addressing like water quality and quantity, eminent domain, child care, children going hungry etc. Please stop these ridiculous bills.
02-12-2024
Bryce Kibbel []
CON
Terrible idea and cruel
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Do not take our rights away.
02-12-2024
Claire Ritz Matthews []
CON
LGBTQ+ citizens are exactly thatcitizens. ALL humans have rights, whether you agree with them or not.
02-12-2024
Joseph Thien [Educator]
CON
As an educator, this is appalling. Its seems like the GOP is scared of children. I am very much against this bill and all hateful rhetoric being pushed by the GOP.
02-12-2024
Lou Milks [None]
CON
Protect all Iowa citizens!
02-12-2024
Quinn [NA]
CON
This bill echoes early stages of Nazi Germany with requiring Jewish and other minority groups to have special IDs. Do not lead our state down the same path. This country was founded on freedom of expression and religion and being able to live your life how you want as long as you are not harming other people. LGBTQ people and specifically trans people are not harming anyone. We are not the problem that the republicans make us out to be. Research shows that trans people are actually at a higher risk of being sexually assaulted by more than 3 times cisgender women. Do not let our state take away our freedom that we deserve and are entitled to just like every other American.
02-12-2024
Jane Remmen [Myself]
CON
I feel the Iowa Republican legislators are trying to erase anyone that does not conform to their narrow view as.
02-12-2024
Bruce Bachmann [Individual]
PRO
I believe we should be making life easier and more peaceful.
02-12-2024
Katie Little [Hope family counseling]
CON
Stop bullying and harassing peoples who are not like you. You have no idea the damage you are doing to their mental health, but I do. First hand knowledge and you are making people want to die. Thats just a fact, and its not what the majority of this state wants. Stop pushing your hate filled agendas and get back to doing whats right for Iowans and what WE the people want. I can assure you, this isnt it.
02-12-2024
Michelle Logsdon [none]
CON
As a mental health professional who works with the LBGTQIA+ population. I know firsthand the mental health struggles these individuals deal with, especially within the state of Iowa. There is no reason to pass these laws, which only cause the state of Iowa to regress at people.
02-12-2024
James YARDLEY []
CON
These bills are not needed. Treat all persons the same and dont legislate hate.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Equal rights for everyone
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This is a waste of time and money. Why do we need this senseless effort to bring attention to something that never asked for it nor needs it. WHO or what are you protecting? And when did it become a problem? People of varying differences both big and small have existed and lived amongst each other for decades, doing just fine. And now we need to categorize and limit freedoms in the name of protecting women? Last time I checked someone going into a bathroom to rape or harass someone is illegal. It will make no difference what it says on a license or birth certificate if a person is intent on doing that, they will. Why are we so scared of difference? So threatened? WHY NOW? Youd think transgender people were abusing people left right and center last time I checked they arent, they just want to be left alone. So leave them alone and vote this bill out of circulation forever. Start working on problems that we have and stop creating them.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is political theater that only serves to divide Iowans based on basic immutable characteristics. It is textbook discrimination. Trans panic is a rebranded form of gay panic championed by the same hateful people with enough awareness to know their internal homophobic beliefs aren't palatable anymore. In 10 years your transphobia will also not be tolerated in polite society, and many Iowans are already wise enough to see your bigotry for what it is. Stop this bill now.
02-12-2024
Joan []
CON
Absolutely & completely against any bill that infringes against the rights of the LGBTQ community. Governor Reynolds bills are hateful & target individuals that she deems as unwelcome in Iowa. The bills are unneccsary & counter to what she claims. They are extremely damaging to children & to say that she is only caring for the children is a lie.
02-12-2024
Britney Kaufman [trans youth parent organization]
CON
Iowans need to get with the times and science. LGTBQIA+ individuals need support and care. Signed mom of a queer kid and behavior analyst.
02-12-2024
Lillian Stewart []
CON
Folks, Legally defining the terms "man" and "woman" causes issues for samesex parents when issuing birth certificates to their children, seeks to use the highly discredited language of "separate but equal" to openly discriminate, and would completely erase transgender Iowans from state code. You also need to consider 2% of people born intersex: a term used to describe people with sex characteristics that do not fit the standard binary medical definitions of male or female. These sex characteristics can include chromosome patterns, gonads, or internal/external genitals. Some intersex traits are noticed at birth, while others dont show up until puberty or later in life. If you define "man" and "woman", it will just continue to encourage harmful and invasive genital surgeries performed on children with intersex variations. Some intersex people are not able to have kids due to nonconsensual surgeries that resulted in sterilization. Please do not make intimate decisions for other people. Please do not make decisions for other people's bodies.
02-12-2024
Hudson Bontrager []
PRO
I would like to voice my support HF 2389. Our nation was built on Biblical principles and one of those principles is that God created male and female. These are two distinctive genders and man has no right to mess with what God created. As a Christian and an American I fully support Governor Reynolds in this bill.
02-12-2024
Tina Fulton []
CON
Stop all the hateful legislation and start showing some compassion for your fellow human beings. You are not judge and jury. I am embarrassed, saddened and angered by what our state is becoming. Do. Better.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose any legislation that limits the freedom of the LGBTQ+ community. Discrimination of any kind should not have any place in Iowa.
02-12-2024
Michael Henriksen [Retired State of IS employee ]
CON
Stop pretending you are voting for your constitutes. You are legislating hate,bigotry, conformity. Keep your church,hypocritical religious views out of my government. Each and everyone of you who supports these discriminatory bills are proving the party I once truly believed in has moved so far right you're one step from wearing Jackboots crying out "Sieg heils mein Fhrer" and "Heil Trump!"
02-12-2024
Carol Narak []
CON
There is nothing Iowa nice about this bill. By passing a law, you cannot erase people. All people are created equal. Leave our friends and family members alone.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop legislating hate!
02-12-2024
Kindra Petersen [n/a]
CON
At first glance, this bill is limited in its scope because it states "indication of a person's sex on certain vital records". The issue I take with this begins with the individuals who are born intersex for whatever biological reason. This happens all the time when people have more than one X chromosome or parts of their XX chromosomes have fallen off. What would their sex LEGALLY be if they did not have the appropriate reproductive organs for the two binary genders? A "female" is described as someone who has a reproductive system to produce ova, but some women (like those who suffered from Agent Orange side effects) have no reproductive organs. There is a line that says "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal" which sounds strikingly similar to the Jim Crow laws from the 1960s. Later in the bill, it defines school districts as needing to collect "vital statistics" for the purpose of complying with state discrimination laws or for the purpose of accurate state public health records. What public health records are being kept that NEED to identify gender? Are health records not private and protected by HIPPA? Why would the state registrar need to have access to make further investigations or require further information to determine whether a sex change has occurred? Will you violate privacy laws and require individuals to send you photos of their genitals to make sure that every individual is appropriately labeled 'male' or 'female'? What purpose does an individual need to have both pre and postsex change genders present on their birth certificate? How is this valid information necessary for elected political officials? What about HIPPA? I am not certain how this law falls under the purview of the elected officials in the state of Iowa. We currently have students who are starving at school, underpaid teachers, money being funneled inappropriately, and other important political matters being ignored by old MEN and WOMEN can sit around and discuss whether someone has a penis or vagina between their legs. I didn't know my tax dollars were paying for so much.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This truly is a very serious matter. In our culture today we have people who want to change things that have already been established by God. They want to blur the lines and interjects there ways, there desires on us and confuse our youth and try distort what God has already established. Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him;Male and female created he them. Are youth already have a hard enough time with fatherless homes, neglect, abuse etc. Let alone trying to take there true gender from them. This is nothing but a attack on Gods word. I know today we live in a world that does not reverence God and some may not even know who God is, God is love God is giving but God is also a righteous judge and when you go against what God ordained and created you wont deal with anyone on this post or that you have to face. It doesnt matter that it pleases your friends or colleagues. You will face The God of the universe and you will give an answer and an account for your life and your action one day. God is good he saved me and He can save you. Confess your sins and put your faith and trust in Him alone and you will have a relationship with the Almighty God and a home in Heaven. Sincerely, a sinner who was saved by Gods grace
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I oppose this harmful, misguided and unnecessary bill.
02-12-2024
Dr. Andrew Counterman [BEME-LA]
PRO
I am very disappointed that a portion of our culture so detests natural order that it seeks to rename the birth genders. As a Christian, this is a direct assault against my rights and my God. Shame on the LGBTQ. Lets not forget the men that want access to womens sports, locker rooms, and bathrooms. Shame? Its gone.
02-12-2024
Pam Childers []
CON
Please stop the discrimination against and erasure of LGBTQ+ and allow people freedom of expression!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I don't know why the Iowa Legislators under the instruction of the "Governor" are totally focused on destroying peoples lives!!!!! It is shameful!!!!!!!
02-12-2024
Anjie Myer []
CON
Children need birth certificates & other vital records & same sex parents need to be able to provide for their children. Children should be protected regardless of the sex of their parents. Furthermore, government should not be intervening in issues parents face regarding their childs feelings about sexuality or idenity. There are laws that are in place to protect children from parents that are not able to meet the needs or provide proper care for their children
02-12-2024
Candace Pawson [NA]
CON
You need to listen to the people you represent, not just the ones that agree with you! You are violating peoples privacy! You have no right to redefine words to fit your narrative and personal belief system. Defining these words is dangerous not just for the LGBTQ+ community, but all of us. Leave your archaic stereotypical attitudes at home and do your job protecting Iowans privacy and freedoms. Say NO to this bill and the 39 other antiLGBTQ+ bills the Governor and GOP lawmakers are working on this year. I do NOT support this statesponsored hate and discrimination bill and neither should you.
02-12-2024
Lisa Coffey []
CON
stop trying to impose markers on records to force outting trans persons. this sets them up for disenfranchisement
02-12-2024
Tara Kane [Parent ]
CON
As a parent this is beyond hurtful and inhumane. Please dont diminish our transgender children. Their mental health is at stake. It could be life or death for some children if this is passed.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [citizen]
CON
I vote no for all antiLGBTQ+ legislation. All people matter.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
This is ridiculous legislation. Quit wasting our time and focus on actual issues harming Iowa communities: mental health support and gun legislation that will actually make an impact
02-12-2024
Dan Carver []
CON
This bill does not fix any problems, it only creates them. I am against this bill.
02-12-2024
John Preston []
CON
Leave these Iowans alone and solve some actual problems.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is based on ignorance and hate. Instead of taking the time to learn about a group of people that are different from you your first reaction is to discriminate.
02-12-2024
David Barker []
PRO
I would urge you to affirm that there are only two genders, male and female. This is how God created people. It has been this way since the begining of time. Man cannot change this. Please affirm all of the traditional definitions of male and female, mom and dad, and any others as the Governor has purposed. This is common sense. I know there are a lot of loud voices on the other side of this issue, but please do what you know is true and right for Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please focus on something that benefits all Iowans instead of singling out a small group that should still be treated with respect regardless of your religious beliefs.
02-12-2024
Carolyn Stephenson []
CON
Stop these discriminating bills against lgbtq+ persons. They pose no threat! I'm angry that Iowa would even consider such discrimination.
02-12-2024
Steve Frevert []
CON
Again the right wing legislature is wasting time on conservative dog whistles. Have some sense and dump this garbage proposal.
02-12-2024
Michelle Servadio Elias [State Chairwoman Vererans Caucus Iowa Democratic Party ]
CON
In the Constitution, we the people demanded a future for our infant Democracy. A hope for our more perfect Union, one in which we could all be free, have equality in justice and that as society would grow and change, that our Constitution would grow and change to meet societys challenges and protect democracy and liberty for all of our citizens, laying out inalienable rights of pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. The entire spectrum of humanity has these inherent human rights and not rules of law should ever seek to strip away the Constitutional rights of any of our Citizens. As a Veteran, my oath was to protect and defend the Constitution, it is terrifying that I must protect children, transgender, non binary, lesbians or queer or whatever any is or has become, from the tyranny of governance making one religions beliefs rules of law. Clearly unconstitutional. 1rst Amendment rights protect Physicians in every discussion they have with patients. 9th Amendment and 4th Amendment protect privacy, intimacy and birth control privacy rights of everyone. ( since the 1960s). Veterans Caucus cannot ever support any legislation that takes away the Constitutional or Amendment rights, human rights of our citizens. We the people is all the people.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I dont support this statesponsored discrimination.
02-12-2024
Julie ulrich []
PRO
Hey everyone! my name is Julie Ulrich.with some amendments and clarifications I am here today to show support of house bill 2389. I am an Iowa girl born and raised never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that there would be need to have a bill to define a man and a woman. But here we are, and I believe That it's time and we do need a bill that defines the difference between the two genders. Men And women should be celebrated, the word play that the LGBTQ community is promoting is silliness. Iowa has supported gay rights and marriage a decade before gay marriage was recognized Nationally. Yes, Chemicals and hormones can make the visual presentation of your gender change and then with cosmetic Surgery genitalia can be made to look more realistic, but it is plastic surgery. gender identity Is a combination of physical and behavioral traits it evolves over the course of an individual's lifetime as it is your personality. and bottom line the acronyms that are being used in the LGBTQ communities describe sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is a choice; biology or genetics is not A choice. Yes, intersex is a Somewhat rare phenomenon, and it is real. Iowa supports these individuals through the American with Disabilities Act. Science says we have male or female and this is not hurtful hateful or demeaning. Facts are facts, north is north, south is South and Sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression is just that, an expression. We do need to know what gender an individual is for many different reasons in our society The most important is to keep our children safe it is also to keep the person who is expressing their gender differently safe as well because doctors do need to know what is your Actual true gender is so they may treat you and treat your body properly as many illnesses and diseases present themselves differently depending on the sex of a patient. the chemicals and hormones and the cosmetic surgery may make you look different, but it does not change who you are you are either a man or a woman. Xx or xy
02-12-2024
Lynn Kassel [N/a]
CON
Please stop targeting vulnerable individuals in our state. Vote NO on any antiLGBTQ legislation!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Stop this bill. The language included will make it possible for discrimination on the basis of same sex couples. The invasion this body has taken into our homes and personal decisions needs to end. Your job as public servants is to ena t laws that impact the MAJORITY interests for the better . Not restrict the rights of minorities. I am extremely disappointed in the direction this body has been pursuing. You have so many more worthwhile topics that you should be spending your time on like, making sure families have affordable child care, making sure families can afford groceries. Making sure them Iowa minimum wage is set in such a way that single parent homes are able to survive without public assistance. You need to stop delving into private lives and morality issues. It is not up to a public body to issue edicts regarding morality to the degree of this body has taken. Please redirect your activities towards finding topics and causes that will benefit the majority of the Iowa population and stop focusing on restricting rights of the minority.this bill will in no way help children in the future it will only restrict and allow for discrimination against those that are different.
02-12-2024
Laura Hansen [Self]
CON
How dare you take away human rights and say it's from kindness and love. Surely you know you're all forever going to be seen as people on the wrong side of history and a huge step back from progress.
02-12-2024
Jim meyer [Still american]
CON
Stop the hate business with the gay community. The way things are going if he gets in we are going to have trains again to somewhere. But oh your eliminating that part of history also. Shame on you all
02-12-2024
Roger Smith [Berean Baptist Church]
PRO
I support the governor's position on this bill.
02-12-2024
Laura Blacksmith [Private Citizen ]
CON
Please dont do this to our LGBTQ+ community.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I want my LBGTQ loved ones to be protected.
02-12-2024
Cassie Peters []
CON
Stop the hateful attack on LGBTQ+ Iowa used to be nice and was one of the first states to allow gay marriage. Don't go backwards in time now and take away rights.
02-12-2024
Kara Grady [NA]
CON
I'm saying NO TO HATE!LET LGBTQIA Iowans LIVE!
02-12-2024
Steve Shaner []
CON
This is a governmental overreach both in its broad wording and for the outcomes it seeks to achieve. HSB 649 was suppressed partly because it sought to empower state authority to decide private matters of gender identity that injured Iowans seeking only to be free.This rewrite does not improve on the fundamental policy perspective of our government and its bureaucracies. Please retract this and do not pursue similar means of violating our citizens rights to equal protection under the state constitution.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I do not support all of the restrictive and hateful legislation against LGBTQ community members. Legislators need to put their own personal beliefs aside when it come to making statewide polices. You are elected to represent all of the people...not just the ones you deem appropriate. There is already too much government in our daily lives. Please focus your attention on budget issues, infrastructure, property tax reform, mental health, and education funding. There is absolutely no need to keep bogging the legislative session down with your ridiculous rules on individuals.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Iowan]
CON
Stop trying to erase the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa!!
02-12-2024
Phillips Peters [None]
CON
I am registering against HF 2389. I have worked with many members of the LGBTQ+ community over my long career as a public school teacher. I value each person for who they are. Bills such as this one and the others that seek to diminish fair treatment under the laws of Iowa are counter to the notion of "treat others as you would have others treat you." We must seek ways to be more inclusive, not to treat anyone as "others" or to create means for discrimination.VOTE NO on this bill!
02-12-2024
Susan Pundzak []
CON
As a former teacher, I know just how hateful these numerous bills are. Until you've known a transgender person, or a child or teen struggling with his/her sexuality you cannot fathom the depth of this travesty. We don't need more restrictive laws in Iowa; with every Legislative session more and more rights are being removed from citizens. Stop this purge and these cruel bills!
02-12-2024
Emily Wright []
CON
This billIs hateful, noninclusive, and divisive!
02-12-2024
Jan [Aiels]
CON
This bill is terrible discrimination against Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [none]
CON
Why should people of the LGBTQ+ community be hated on just for being who they are? People of that community are humans too, nobody in the world has any right to tell them they cant be who they want to be. This goes especially for kids and teenagers. Parents always say that kids can be anything they want to be, but they cant if theyre gay? Nobody should have a right in saying who gets to love who because it shouldnt matter, love doesnt change if a boy loves a boy or if a girl loves a girl. Everyone should be able to protect their children, no matter what.
02-12-2024
Teresa Carter-Lewis []
CON
No to this bill. And no to all the bills that are hateful and unfair. Leave trans people alone. Do some work on something appropriate for government to be concerned with, like Iowas high cancer rates.
02-12-2024
Diane Thayer [Private citizen]
CON
ALL people deserve to be seen and respectedNO to all antiLGBTQ legislation
02-12-2024
Julie Murry [Retired]
CON
Anothe discrimination bill by the party of hate! Iowans are better than this bill!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
I transplanted to Iowa 25 years and have loved this state. I am watching the current legislative developments with horror. What happened to people making the choices that were appropriate for their families, without the government meddling? The same people who said that 3 years ago seem to have no such compunction when the laws won't directly affect their children and their friends' families. Not only will I encourage my children to choose safer states to work and live in as adults, we are also looking to relocate. So much for attracting well trained, working families with kids. It's heartbreaking.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Trying to erase any kind of human is disgusting. Focus bills pm actual issues in Iowa. Enforce strict gun laws, use finds to what matters. These bills trying to erase lgbtq+ people goes to show how heartless people in politics are. Republicans are being so insanely backhanded and do not give any cares to Iowans. If they did, they'd leave us the heck alone and actually try to protect us. It's disgusting I even have to fill this stupid thing out. If their kid came out as transgender they are basically saying they would kick them to the curb just because of genitals. Yet these are the same people who are prolife. Double standards. Disgusting. Leave the lgbtq+ the hell alone and focus on actually doing good in Iowa LIKE MAKING GUN LAWS MORE STRICT BECAUSE IM TIRED OF BEING AFRAID OF MY LITTLE BROTHER GOING TO SCHOOL AND GETTING HURT BECAUSE FOR SOME REASON HIS LIFE IS LESS IMPORTANT THAN A GUN. I used to love Iowa. Now all I want to do is leave.
02-12-2024
Charlene Ahern [- None -]
CON
Why are people so hateful to others?!People are people, Everyone should have rights like every other human. Be decent.
02-12-2024
Sherri Peterson L Peterson []
CON
This is a violation of civil rights. It is time to say NO to this campaign of hate against LGBTQ Iowans. Our state must welcome all Iowans!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I feel that these antiLGBTQ+ laws are wrong. They seem like nothing but hate and the need to cancel or erase these people. In a recent picture of Gov. Reynolds, she was wearing a cross on a chain around her neck. Just ask, What would Jesus think of these bills. It should not matter where on the gender spectrum are. All that should matter is that they are decent human beings and good citizens.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
We have much bigger concerns than attempting to make any of the LGBT community feel less than or to make them more of a target for hate crimes than they already are.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Please do not try to erase these people. These are productive wonderful humans!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
No matter who we are or how we identify, all people deserve love and respect. Vote No.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this ignorant and evil bill.
02-12-2024
Jeff Nichols []
CON
It is illegal to discriminate. All people deserve representation.
02-12-2024
Susan Olesen [Retired]
CON
Your obsession with denigrating LGBTQ people is disgusting. We have serious issues in this state dirty water, rising insurance rates, childcare, low funding for public public education, and more. Enough with your social agenda. Our economy will tank and no one will come here for anything. So stop.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I am in favor of this bill. As our nation continues its downward spiral into depravity, please do the morally correct thing and pass this into law.
02-12-2024
Kristi Keast [Retired Teacher]
CON
It is past time that the Iowa legislature stops being mean spirited. No LGBTQ person has hurt them. ALL people have rights. This isn't pie, rights for others will not take your rights away.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am against this bill.
02-12-2024
Patricia Olsen []
CON
I am so tired of such small minded people! If anyone has had a loved one, ostracized because they were gay and watched them struggle for acceptance, they would be more understanding. I hate to see our state moving backwards.
02-12-2024
Belinda Holbrook []
CON
This bill is discrimination and only wants to erase the rights of some Iowans. DO NOT PASS IT!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Nome]
CON
My family says no to hate! Please do all you can to protect the rights of all Iowans no matter who they love! We will not stand for hate, division, discrimination. Its embarrassing to watch the GOO divide Iowans. Do better.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
Stop this hateful legislation that is harmful to Iowas future. This is going to hurt Iowas ability to attract businesses and talent. We need to encourage more people to come to Iowa instead of maliciously attacking a minority population for political points. I work with students who want to flee Iowa as soon as they graduate because they think Iowa is going backwards.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
The discrimination evident in HF 2389 has no place in Iowa. We are a welcoming people.
02-12-2024
John Olsen []
CON
My name is John Olsen. HF 2389 is called by one organization as the LGBTQ Erasure Act and this name is appropriate. The definitions spelled out in this bill would eliminate the legal existence of transgender individuals. The problem is that transgender individuals will still actually exist in real life and as human beings, Americans, and Iowans, they deserve the same human and civil rights as any other Iowan. Iowa has a duty to protect their health, safety, and privacy. But this bill does exactly the opposite and puts their lives at risk. Section 1.4 of this bill requires state data collection to identify individuals as only biological men or biological women. By not recognizing their existence in state data collection of any kind, the record of the transgender community just magically disappears. So does their protection from state antidiscrimination laws.My daughter is a loving and caring person whose career goal is to be a nurse. Iowa has a very severe shortage of nurses, but Iowa will not likely benefit from her services because she no longer feels at home here. The fear my daughter experiences prior to every interaction with a stranger is real. Her fear is a result of the plethora of antitrans legislation introduced and passed by the legislature and Gov. Reynolds.If this bill is passed into law, the trans community will not be the only ones who will feel it. Montana passed a similar law to this one and their legislative services estimated that Montana would lose $7 Billion in federal funding due to antidiscrimination requirements. How much will Iowa lose? $7 Billion represents 82% of the 2024 annual budget. I strongly suggest to the legislators reading this testimony that you request a fiscal note on this bill. I strongly urge members of the Iowa House to vote against HF 2389 and maintain the rights of ALL Iowans.
02-12-2024
Sora Anderson []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 2389 because it effectively erases LGBTQ+ Iowans from the picture. As a transgender man, I am afraid of this bill becoming law because I would have to out myself as transgender everytime I show my government documents. Transitioning my gender has been a long road filled with hardship, bureaucratic red tape, and other obstacles. As transgender Iowans, we already face an uphill battle right from the moment we decide to come out. I am glad I came out and transitioned. It saved my life and has also saved the life of many other transgender Iowans. We should not have to justify our existence every time we turn around. Regardless of what stage we are in our journey to transition, we have the right to live our lives in peace, use the bathrooms that feel right without the fear of tyranny, discrimination, and persecution. I strongly urge you to vote no on HF 2389, we don't deserve to be erased from the narrative. Even if this law passes...I expect it to be challenged in the courts for this bill is inherently unconstitutional. It wasn't about drinking fountains then, and it isn't about bathrooms now. how does somebody being transgender and transitioning hurt you? Spoiler alert, it doesn't. Separate but equal is not equal...it is unjust. And quite frankly, this is a distraction when we could be working on other issues to improve the lives of Iowans. Trans rights are human rights, LGBTQ+ rights are human rights! Don't judge a book until you know what's inside it...We are humans just like you..I am human...I have a right to live openly as a transgender man. Trans men are men, transgender women are women and nonbinary and gender nonconforming folks are valid. I have come too far to go back now. Iowa should be going forward, not backwards.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This legislation being considered is HATEFUL, DISCRIMINATORY and is not what Iowa stands for! Nobody asked for it and we DO NOT WANT IT!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
LGBT Iowans deserve equal rights and protection under state law. They are taxpaying citizens of the state with a reasonable expectation of equality and protection under the law. This legislation represents unfair discrimination and is unethical. Discriminatory legislation based on personal and/or religious belief has no place in state politics.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [None]
CON
I am really tired of all this ridiculous legislation trying to impose your rule on the people of this state in reference to many things but as this is about LGBTQ+ I am writing in opposition to the hate mongering that is and has been going on in the legislature of our Stste. You should be protecting those in need!!!!!!!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
No to hateful discriminatory legislation. How does this improve the lives of Iowans? Why do you waste taxpayer money enacting legislation that hurts your fellow Iowans? This does nothing but send a message Iowa is not a welcoming place to live.
02-12-2024
George McKeever [None]
CON
Young people are who they are. Even gender udentity is organic in expression until the person decides what fits for them. And it is the U.S. Constitution that is the Law of The Land.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I absolutely abhor this proposed legislation. Stop it in its tracks.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is a thinly veiled attempt to remove lgbtq+ rights and has no place in Iowa. Let people be who they are and don't be so scared of people who are different from a typical "Christian".If someone is born a male and needs/wants to be a woman, let them. 99% of them just want to be left alone and live their life, they aren't doing it because they want to do bad things. They do it because they need to in order to not feel awful.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is not necessary and is not in the spirit of Iowa. The bill harkens back to the 60s.
02-12-2024
Michael McKenzie []
CON
End hate in Iowa. This bill is LBGTQ+ erasure that is not welcome in Iowa.
02-12-2024
Janice A Reinicke []
CON
Please oppose this bill.
02-12-2024
Dr Kent Boyer []
CON
I am ashamed to be an Iowan as you continue to deliberately harm our most vulnerable citizens. Shame on you all.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to this hateful, discriminatory bill. You should know that when most of the people who speak in favor of this bill are members of the extremist group Moms for Liberty or are members of Eternity Church or the Family Leader, that its an awful bill. Whats next? Will you take away our right to vote? Are you gonna make people wear a big scarlet letter on their clothing? I wouldnt be surprised if you started making people live in internment camps. This is disgusting and the bill sponsors and supporters should be ashamed for putting forth such a hateful, homophobic bill!! Iowans arent stupid.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [LGBQT+ Iowans]
CON
House File 2389 is an "erasure" of transgender and nonbinary people and a violation of privacy.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Fixing things that aren't broken is a waste of time, carried out in this case to endorse hatred and gain votes by dividing Iowans. Not my Iowa.
02-12-2024
Jennifer Oredson []
CON
My daughter Lora and I were signed up to speak at the hearing tonight, and we were only a few slots away from our turn before it was cut off. While I share the fury of the protesters, I am frustrated that we were not able to be heard tonight. I don't believe we will make any progress with this approach, but we also haven't made any progress in the past by being civilized. It feels like there's no good way to be heard.We came home and filmed the speeches we would have given tonight, and we would appreciate if you could take the time to see what we had to say. Thank you.https://youtu.be/3UyZ0KMU7KE
02-12-2024
Anonymous [No organization]
PRO
Thank you, Governor Reynolds, for bringing forth HF 2389 that defines nine genderrelated terms. I entirely agree to it's passage in both chambers, and am hoping as you have brought it forth, that you will also sign it to become law. It is now necessary for the Iowan elected, governmental officials to define these nine genderrelated terms to safeguard the furtherance of governmental action through law or mandates towards those groups of people mentioned within it's definition. It is evident that in Iowa's culture there is a percentage of Iowans now trying to redefine those genderrelated terms for all Iowans in a way with which I do not agree. I do believe this law will help to alleviate problems regarding the cultural redefining from a percentage of Iowan's for those genderrelated terms that will represent the majority of Iowans.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
PRO
I would encourage you to pass and sign HF2389, the bill defining the 9 genderrelated terms. I was in the hearing tonight and heard both sides. I would encourage the passing of this bill and seeing it signed into law as written. Thank you for all you do for Iowa.John
02-12-2024
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
No comment except I am against anything regarding the LBGQ that takes away any of their rights. Let them live their lives as who they are.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Iowans are an inclusive State. This bill will cost lives to be lost in the long run.
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Cornerstone Baptist Church]
PRO
This bill will be helpful in protecting women and our children and the future of Iowa.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Without regard to how it is characterized this is an effort to further state sponsored hate/discrimination. Shame!
02-12-2024
Kristen Beech []
CON
The LGTBQ people in my life are making plans to leave the state. It is hard to get up each day knowing a gang of old white "christians" spend their days dreaming up ways to malign and alienate them. LGBTQ people are just trying to live their lives. LEAVE THEM ALONE!! There are so many issues in Iowa right now. Concentrate on something that uplifts people in this state instead of proclaiming each day how much you hate people who are not like you. I am not like you. I hope to never be as close minded and hateful as the IA Legislature.
02-12-2024
Janice E Ellsworth []
CON
I am so so sorry I saw this email too late to respond. It is so wrong to discriminate against any of our citizens. May Karma respond to those who sit in judgment in kind. I am appalled by this line of thinking.
02-12-2024
Kristen Beech []
CON
What is the problem this is solving? How does this help Iowans?I know it helps little old white men and the governor score points with their donors. As for me and my circle, it just adds to the list of reasons we will leave this state. A state governed by hate is not one I want to call home.
02-12-2024
Sarah A Klemuk []
CON
This bill invades privacy of individual Iowans and fundamentally obstructs the a free and fair society. No person or entity, governing body, or individual has the right to tell me as a citizen how I define my sexual orientation or gender. How can anyone supporting this bill also believe in a pluralistic society, the U.S. Constitution and a democratic government? Are we not a diverse people, who aim to sit sidebyside with all sorts, knowing that we cannot possibly know what will bring happiness to someone else?
02-12-2024
Jeremy Faden []
CON
It saddens me that those who govern our state feel the need to identify people as either a man or a woman. Why elected leaders feel we need to have this identity codified is beyond me. All Iowans deserve the same respect, especially from our government.
02-12-2024
Susan [Cover]
CON
Please return Iowa to an earlier, more welcoming state!
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I am absolutely against this bill. It does nothing to help Iowa, but actively causes harm to a marginalized community. Our trans Iowans want to live their lives in peace, but this constant attack on their rights makes that impossible. They are not the danger Gov. Reynolds makes them out to be. They are not the enemy. They are our friends, our coworkers, our neighbors... and we should be making laws that protect, NOT harm people. Allowing trans people to find affirmation in their identity is not hurting anyone.Time and time again through this process, Iowans have shown up in overwhelming numbers to say we do NOT want this bill passed. I urge our representatives to remember that they are not there to push their personal beliefs. They have taken an oath to serve their constituents. Please do your job and listen to the overwhelming outpouring of Iowans saying they do NOT want this.
02-12-2024
Sandi Tucker-Stanbro []
CON
Stop introducing hateful legislation against Iowa citizens! Your efforts are hateful, ignorant and make me embarrassed to be an Iowan.
02-12-2024
Mercedes R Lackey [High Flight Arts and Letters]
CON
LGBT+ folks have a hard enough time in life. They don't need government getting all up into their personal business. If you are for "smaller government" you cannot possibly be for intrusion into peoples' private lives in matters that have no impact on anyone else. Keep governmental noses out of private lives!
02-12-2024
Anonymous [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Please stop legislating hate on our trans community. With all of the crime that happens on a daily basis in Iowa, transwomen are not the issue, in fact, they are more likely to be victims of crime than cis women. Let's also note this legislation will require transmen to use women's restrooms and will create the very issue you say you are concerned about.
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
People of all Ethnic races and sexuality are good and honest people and the type of people we need to encourage to live in Iowa. We do not need to be known as Iowa Nasty Or the state that hates. Ive had friends from out of state comment They are watching the hate that is growing In our Iowa legislature.
02-12-2024
Patrick Walters []
CON
Mean spirited bill!!
02-12-2024
Joe Stutler []
CON
Joe Stutler, Decorated Disabled Combat Veteran, born and raised in the City of American History, I am without a doubt the most senior Patriot here today.I served two tours of duty in Germany. I learned a few things.Consider Niemoller's poem: First They Came....Youve said screw those hungry childrenYouve continued to attack public education and educatorsYoure gunning for the Trade Unionists, gutting Chapter 20 furtherYoure trying to criminalize religions you dont like.Today youre trying to dehumanize my family and friends.You're doing the Nazi stuff again.Today, instead of doing your job and telling our school districts what they have to work with so they can plan their budgets, were here to discuss your perverted obsession with other people's genitalia. Its interesting that the only speakers in favor of this abomination of a bill are theofascists whose deity could have banned slavery, instead it banned pork, and yet theyre not protesting hog farms. Others have and will tell you how your reduction of women into having functional ovaries or they don't matter is disgusting.I'm here to remind you that Nazis are never the good guys. I'm here to remind you that while at the moment you're giddy with power as were your analogs in 1930s Germany, in the end you're going to end up just like they did. And given our technological advances and the good kids studying STEAM, I don't believe it's going to take 10 years to eradicate the Nazis this time. While I'm too old to to be a foot soldier in the upcoming war you're demanding, I'm happy to share the skills Uncle taught me with those who will be taking advantage of our lack of firearms regulations and the availability of resources at our big box stores and home improvement centers...after all, Uncle made me an instructor of such things.Keep doing your Nazi stuff. Foxtrot Alpha, Foxtrot Oscar.
02-12-2024
Shelly Silver [Polk City Democrats]
CON
I can't believe that this is what the legislature is spending time on when we have so many big issues to solve. For example, we're last or close to last in the nation with mental health beds and maternal care. People are tired of low wages and don't want to be exploited for their work. We're going to continue to hemorrhage our population for individuals to go elsewhere with higher paying jobs. We also have a homeless population and a lack of affordable housing. If you want people off of welfare then they need to be paid a decent living wage. Trans people are about 1% of the population. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. I know this is very hard for some people to understand. If you don't understand, please be curious and educate yourselves without being judgmental of things you don't understand yet. But if you believe in freedom and liberty and leaving people alone, then please don't bother with this insignificant bill and address these other issues.
02-12-2024
Sarah Cramer []
CON
This bill is discriminatory. Everyone deserves equal right no matter who they love
02-12-2024
Martha Peterson [Private]
CON
Please stop wasting my tax payer money fixing things that are not problems. Love thy neighbor. Solve REAL problems like our mental health crisis, homelessness, and helping raise the minimum wage so families have a fighting chance!
02-12-2024
Amanda Lovell [Art Teacher]
CON
Im not for bills that are discriminatory towards any human being. Many of my loved ones would be discriminated against if this bill became a law. Why is it anyone elses business to know another persons gender identity/ sex/ orientation? Let people be who they are; if someone has transitioned from their biological sex then that individual deserves to identify however they would like and if that means changing their birth certificate to have the sex changed from their biological sex then they should have that right.
02-12-2024
Marie Gookin [none ]
CON
Lets not discriminate on other who cannot change the way they are. Lets help protect others and help them feel loved and welcome and safe in this world full of hate.
02-12-2024
Virginia A Harlow [retired]
CON
This bill will be a giant step backwards for our once free and accepting state! What are these Republicans afraid of? Why is this such an issue in an election year? Certainly there are more pressing issues to be dealt with? I was Iowa's first Male to Female sex reassignment paid for by insurance! Get MetLife, it pays; look it up! I have never been arrested or a trouble maker, I'd rather be remembered for setting a trend towards freedom and justice for all! Will you be sending me a pink triangle shortly?
02-12-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Government has no business parenting or blocking parents from parenting
02-13-2024
Brian D. Gray [Fellowship Baptist Church]
PRO
Psalms 139:14 InContext 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. 15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Deuteronomy 22:5The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.King James Version (KJV) John 14:1531King James Version15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 2 Chronicles 7:14King James Version14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
02-13-2024
Anonymous []
CON
I'm opposed to this bill.
02-13-2024
Anonymous []
CON
Absolutely against this hate filled bill.
02-13-2024
Justin Botterbrodt []
PRO
I support the Governor introducing both HF 2389 and HSB 649. Women and men are created differently by God. This cannot be changed. Gender is not fluid, and is determined by God our creator. I appreciate the Governor standing for traditional family values and introducing these bills. I emphatically encourage all legislators to pass these bills.
02-13-2024
Bryn Pangburn []
CON
This bill is a horrible excuse to persecute people in the state of Iowa. This bill is dangerous unethical bigoted! The great majority of Iowans do not believe in this nonsense. I have talked to many people in my district Republicans and Democrats and Independents and they are sick of the hatred on display by this Republican Party and are ready to vote them out. This is not Iowa! This is NOT DEMOCRACY! Bryn Pangburn
02-13-2024
Alyssa Jaques []
CON
Iowa should be a safe place for all. If this bill is passed, it will just spread hate and danger to many Americans. Iowans do not deserve this. No one deserves this. This bill is not reflective of the Iowan people. It serves no just legislative cause. Please put aside your biases and leave people alone to live their truth.
02-13-2024
Anonymous [Student]
CON
This bill is absolutely horrific and infringes on people's freedom of speech and expression. The way someone identifies has no effect on anyone but themselves.
02-13-2024
Kimberly Bahrenfuss []
CON
I oppose this bill
02-14-2024
Anonymous [Community Member]
CON
As a community member of Iowa, I am deeply disappointed and disgusted at this blatant attempt to create more systems of hate and violence towards noncisgender folks. This bill is oppressive in every sense of the word and the lives of people should not be policed or be utilized to promote the hateful persons agenda. The lives of people should be celebrated, honored, valued, and respected. This bill affects everyone and it should enrage you that the conservative and oppressive politicians in this state want to focus on this bill and other hateful tactics rather than addressing the real issues affecting Iowans, for example, Iowa is in a clean water and air crisis, our minimum wage is not a living wage, and we are severely lacking mental health resources. Do better and end this bill.
02-18-2024
Anonymous []
CON
HF 2389 is a disturbing attempt to single out transgender Iowans from the rest of us and bring back the idea that separate is not inherently unequal. Why are Republicans so absorbed with needing to identify transgender people? This seems like a clear step in a plan of discrimination. As an Iowan, I absolutely do not agree that transgender Iowans should be forced to single themselves out on their birth certificates.