Print
Permanent LinkIowa Legislature Public Hearings
Public Hearings and times are as follows:
HF 583 - A bill for an act relating to sex and gender, including those and related terms for purposes of statutory construction, indications of a person’s sex on certain vital records, gender identity under the Iowa civil rights Act, and school curricula related to gender theory.(Formerly HSB 242.)
Sponsored by the Judiciary Committee
Thursday, February 27, 2025
9:30 AM (introductions begin)
11:00 AM (conclusion of the hearing)
RM 103
02-24-2025
02-24-2025
Jess Bierling []
CON
This bill goes against the State motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful and unnecessary.
02-24-2025
Ysandril Morrigan []
CON
The hateful legislation targeting transgender Iowans must be halted. This is unconscionable. Removing civil rights from a marginalized community not even representative of more than 1% of the population will cause undo stress and harm. Do not advance this bill. Do not inflict harm on us. The majority partys lack of humanity is immeasurable. This is wrong and evil.
02-24-2025
Meaghan Kochheiser [Concerned citizen ]
CON
Hello, my name is Meaghan Kochheiser. I'm originally from Waukee, currently residing in Des Moines, and I am asking you to oppose this bill. This bill could bar LGBTQIA people from access to banking, housing, and employment. Where do you think these people will go if it's legal to deny them jobs, housing, and more? They're not going to disappear. Trans people have always existed, and they will continue to exist. I remember growing up in Iowa, being proud of what a progressive, safe state we were. That has all changed and it makes me sick. Gone is the Iowa I was once proud of, now it festers and rots with hate. I ask you to please oppose HSB 583. Thank you for your time.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My name is Izzy, I am a trans Iowan, and I am asking you to please reject HSB 242Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Does this sound familiar to you? It should because not only is it on our flag, it is our motto. Passing HSB 242 is a direct violation of this very motto. Liberties that are against basic human rights are no prize. This bill is baseless and unconstitutional, with no data or evidence of any kind to back it. Yet again, it is a written attempt to normalize hate for anyone that does not fit the norm. I ask you to reject HSB242 and not take our state backwards.
02-24-2025
Naoma Byrnes [Concerned citizen]
CON
My name is Naoma Byrnes. Im a constituent from Des Moines, IA. I was born and raised in Ankeny and have lived in this state all my life. I am a proud lesbian and am in a loving relationship with my partner. This bill doesnt just affect transgender people it also affects people like us who are gender non conforming. In Arizona there has already been a case of a cisgender (or biological) woman who had the police called on her for simply attempting to use the womens restroom, just because she dresses in a more masculine manner. This bill doesnt protect women like me, it hurts us. Our state motto is our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain what are you doing to maintain womens liberties and rights? I for one dont want my taxpayer dollars funding senseless hatred.
02-24-2025
Carol C Chesnutt [Mothers who love their Children]
CON
Taking away the civil rights protections of the most marginalized of citizen groups, transgender people, is the antithesis of our state motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain."
02-24-2025
Betsey Monnot [Episcopal Diocese of Iowa]
CON
Jesus taught his disciples to love God and to love their neighbors, In both the gospel of Matthew (7:12) and the gospel of Luke (6:31), Jesus told them Do to others as you would have them do to you. In the gospel of Matthew (25:40), Jesus said Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.This bill legalizes discrimination against transgender Iowans. Legal discrimination against any class of people is contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ and contrary to the promise of our great country. Every Iowan should have equal access to housing, employment, credit, education, and public accommodation.Transgender Iowans are members of my congregations and members of communities across the state of Iowa. They are your neighbors and my neighbors. Jesus calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves. It is unthinkable to remove civil rights and legal protections from people that we love.
Attachment
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am here to speak my mind on the injustice of this bill. A bill stripping Transgender Iowans of their civil rights is an embarrassment to this country, state, and the people within. Transgender people are your family members, neighbors, the people bagging your groceries, and brilliant scholars. We are not a threat to society. Our agenda is to simply live a happy and fulfilling life like everyone else. Many of you probably interact with trans people without ever knowing it. The bill introduced by Chairperson Holt would infringe on trans Iowan's right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But that's the point isn't it? The only benefit this bill would provide is the ability for individuals like Chairperson Holt to punish trans people for existing by removing job and housing security, and allowing open discrimination. If this bill is passed, which group is next on the chopping block? Disabled people? Women? Blacks? I ask that you consider the implications that moving a bill like this forward would have, consider historical precedent. I leave you with a quote from Angela Davis "If they come for me in the morning, they will come for you at night".
02-24-2025
Cynthia Weeks [Personal]
CON
As a parent of an empathic and caring transgender son, I am outraged that you are actually advocating to take away my sons civil rights in your zealous campaign of hate. Hes hurt no one. Hes not affecting you or anyone else as he lives his life. I strongly stand against this bill and the state of Iowa for the legislatures action of hatred towards transgender people.
02-24-2025
James Baldwin [Private Citizen]
CON
I am a transgender business owner who does business in Iowa and Illinois. I will be speaking about the various impacts that this bill will have on me, my customers, and Iowa businesses.
02-24-2025
Angie Ellerbroek []
CON
I am strongly opposed to HF 583. I am a cishet woman, a nurse, a farmers' daughter, a.mother, a wife, a caring person. This bill is horrendous and I **almost** cannot believe it got this far. Everyone who votes yes to this bill (and this type of hate & bigotry) is contributing to discrimination. It's bills like THIS which prove we need gender identity as a protected class. When will it stop?Also, I find it amusing that your instructions list that "no hateful comments" should be posted while the legislature had been proposing all the hateful BILLS against transgender folks: taking away their options for medical decisions to be made, prohibiting them from playing little league, prohibiting them from using bathrooms, attempting to erase them from public. You CANNOT stop transgender people from being BORN. They've always been here and always will be here. Get educated.
02-24-2025
Jack Goodman []
CON
I am a transgender Iowan in Mills County. This bill is completely scientifically inaccurate and needs to be thrown out. First, it states sex and gender are the same. They are not. Sex has to do with reproductive organs and gender is the outward appearance/habits of an individual. While sex is assigned at birth, if a person inherited the transgender attribute, which is a physical medical condition, they can change their sex through hormonal and surgical means and an outside observer will not be able to tell the difference between a person born sex and a fully transitioned individual. Furthermore, this legislation is attempting to take away civil rights from the 7100 Iowans who happen to be transgender. This is shameful. Iowa legislators should be concentrating on improving the lives of Iowans, not trying to harm them. Transgender Iowans are citizens of this state and must be protected with all equal rights under the law.
02-24-2025
Sandy Wilson [Citizen Engagement]
PRO
Citizen Engagement declares IN FAVOR of HF 583. Thank you for bringing this bill. Please advance the bill.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [Protect My Innocence ]
PRO
On June of 2021 a 15 year old girl, who identified as a boy, showed up topless at the Pella public pool. The community was shocked and outraged. After seeking help from the Pella City Council, they proceeded to tell us that no further action will be taken as the Gender Identity law would lead to litigation. Two weeks later an adult couple from Des Moines attended the pool. The man wore a bikini bottom with a poorly covered scrotum and the woman wore a bottom but was topless with tape covering her nipples. Several lifeguards, ages 1522, were extremely concerned. A supervisor resigned from the pool after being there 30 years. Younger concession workers quit. Ten employees were told theyd lose their job if they quit. They decided to resign. Anyone who resigned was red flagged which prevented them from ever obtaining a city job. Thousands of dollars of city revenue has been lost because of this as private pools are now being utilized as parents want their children to be able to feel safe from unnatural exposure.We have garnered signatures from thousands of people across Iowa who want their legislators to strike Gender Identity out of the civil rights code. As a member of a Republican Central Committee, I would also like to point out that Plank #1 under the Liberty section in the 2024 District Republican Party Platform calls for this repeal as well!There is no better time to get this done and Republicans and parents across the state WILL be watching.
02-24-2025
Erin (Wren) Wickering [none]
CON
I am a trans Iowan who would like to speak and share my experience in regards to this bill.
02-24-2025
Aria Huizenga []
CON
We should not be the first state to remove a protected class. How have we gone from first to add gender identity as a protected class to first to remove it? If this the legacy we want for Iowa? Why are we focused on taking away rights instead of ensuring the safety of all Iowans? Please vote no on this hateful and cruel bill
02-24-2025
Ariella Crouse [Behalf of myself]
PRO
I am a Detransitioner and current high school student.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [The family leader]
PRO
02-24-2025
Shea Daniels []
CON
This bill is not in the public interest. It's common sense, and moral, to protect those that are different and have been discriminated against historically. That's why gender identity was added to the Iowa Civil Rights bill in 2007. That reasoning remains sound today. Making it open season on transgender Iowans helps no one, especially not women, and hurts many. I have been told this by literally all of the women in my life. It is also directly counter to Iowa's motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we shall maintain.As an American patriot, it's embarrassing to live in the first state of Union to consider removing civil rights from an entire class of people. It's also embarrassing to live in a state that is at odds with science. This legislation attempts to define language such as "male," "female," "man," and "woman" in ways that are scientifically simplistic and opposed to common use, which is a violation of the first amendment.As a transgender person myself, I have experienced gender dysphoria, which is a disorder that requires treatment. Through transition I have dealt with that dysphoria and am a generally happy and productive citizen, taxpayer, and member of society. I did not choose this myself. There is no medical treatment I can undertake to not be transgender. Accepting myself was the only way to reduce my suffering. Yet, my transness remains. It, in itself, is NOT a mental illness or a disability.It's 2024. We are better than this as Iowans and as Americans. It's time to get back to work to help every day Iowans afford food, housing, and medicine. It's time to help young Iowans get a quality education and good jobs so they don't leave the state. It's time to make sure that older Iowans have a retirement and safe nursing homes. It's time to stop playing political games with the lives of trans Iowans.
02-24-2025
Angie Ellerbroek []
CON
A rare incident in Pella does NOT justify bigotry & discrimination to transgender folks. Did anyone in Pella get murdered at the pool? No, some patrons just couldn't stop staring and were so troubled that they couldn't stop staring. Do transgender folks get harassed, discriminated against, and MURDERED for just being themselves? Yes, it happens way too often.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Laws should be based on truth, fact and reality. If we pass laws in this state that are based on feelings, delusions or lies we will have a society in chaos. For example, this week during the first hearings for this bill and many other times over the last 4 years we have seen the chaos caused in our capitol building by the people who oppose this legislation. They are disrespectful and lack self control. Their behavior in the Capitol is just one more reason to vote yes on this bill, and restore truth to the Iowa code. Currently Iowa law says gender identity is a protected class in the civil rights code. Federal civil rights code does not say this. 27 other states do not have this law either. This law passed in 2007 is errant, because according to our Creator and to the biology of humans, there are 2 genders aka sexes, and no gender identities. That is reality, truth and fact. That fictional term gender identity, is based on delusions of those who are struggling with their mental health about their identity. The most loving thing we can do for anyone, including those who are struggling with gender dysphoria, is to tell them the hard truth rather than an easy lie. Speaking and living the truth sets us free. Iowans have made it clear in the past few legislative sessions with the bills we have passed to protect women and girls in their sports, their locker rooms and bathrooms, in k12 classrooms, as well as public places like the pool they want truthful and common sense laws to protect our society. Having gender identity as a protected class in Iowa civil rights code, means that our biological daughters could have to share bath and locker rooms with biological boys and men, and compete against them in sports. It also has resulted in the state of Iowa paying for elective genital surgeries and artificial hormones for those who want to attempt to change their body to that of the opposite gender. Of note, there are just two of those gender options available when seeking sex change treatments. This bill will still protect the right of a person to identify however they choose, dress how they choose, and all of their other rights just the same as the rest of us are afforded. This bill will simply protect our female designated spaces for biological females only including bathrooms, locker rooms, shelters, prisons, sports, and will end the discriminatory practice of the state of Iowa paying for hormones and genital surgeries.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [Concerned Citizen]
PRO
Over the last few years, Iowa has attempted a reasoned approach in response to the many problematic situations that have arisen from the consequence of including gender identity in the civil rights code. The legislature has passed bills to protect womens spaces in restrooms and sports, compelled speech regarding pronouns, gender surgery minors. I advocated for these bills after my own daughter experienced a biological male in the high school restroom. But in the end, all of these current and future laws are and will forever be in jeopardy of being struck down by the Iowa Supreme Court because gender identity is included in Iowa code. This approach is not working. It is eroding the protections of women and girls. Protections we have been promised for decades. The main concern from those in opposition to this bill is regarding housing and employment discrimination, yet 27 other states do not have these civil rights protections. This argument is a red herring. The rights of citizens with gender dysphoria will continue to be protected like the rights of ALL Americans through the US constitution, bill of rights, federal law, and Iowa constitution and Iowa law. But when the rights of women are inevitably in conflict with the rights of men with gender dysphoria, we must prioritize the rights of women and protect our girls. The real problem is that this law is not based on reality. Any law not rooted in objective truth is an unjust law. It is a law based on the ever changing whims of human desire. It is untenable, is at odds with the truth, and cannot stand. You can include gender identity in the civil rights code or you can include women, but you cant include both. To any Republican legislator against this bill or on the fence, I would like to remind you that removing gender identity from civil rights code is part of the Iowa Republican platform. I promise you this issue is not going away. Your vote will not go unnoticed. Choose wisely.
02-24-2025
Elisabeth Lewin [self]
CON
Please do not allow this hateful, unconstitutional bill to advance. As state representatives, your work is supposed to be to uphold the state motto, "Our liberties we prize; our rights we will maintain." You should be working to ensure and *maintain* the rights of all Iowans, not to rip away the human rights of an already marginalized minority group. There are so many other, much more pressing issues, that deserve the full attention of the state legislature: funding our public schools and universities, cleaning up polluted waterways, helping our poultry farmers deal with the devastating effects of bird flu, improving maternal health care outcomes, fixing decaying infrastructure in our rural areas, making this state an attractive option for starting or expanding small businesses. Why are you spending all this time and attention on stirring up fear of trans people when, really, they just want to ... exist in the world? Maintaining gender identity protections in Iowa's civil rights law in no way erases or inhibits my womanhood or my rights, nor does it infringe on yours. Is this how you want to be remembered? Is this hateful law going to be your legacy? I hope you will be brave and do the right thing, and vote against HF583. Sincerely, Elisabeth Lewin, Des Moines
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This will affect my brother as he is trans female to male. Why is it necessary to take away the ability to change gender on a birth certificate or take away rights in general?
02-24-2025
Jen Ferguson. [N/a]
CON
Please vote no on HF583. Gender hurts no one. Trans people hurt no one. Someone having a gender marker outside the binary hurts no one. This bill is effectively removing civil rights from the citizens of Iowa. It removes rights from all of us. It will drive people out of the workforce in this state. There will be a rise in mental health issues and the costs associated with them. Please take care of all Iowans by voting no. Thank you.
02-24-2025
Melissa McCollister [Educator]
CON
Iowa's Misplaced Priorities: Protecting Women and Girls or Targeting the LGBTQ+ CommunityEvery human being deserves to have their civil liberties. However, this bill threatens the rights and civil liberties of LGBTQ+ citizens. Why are they under attack? What factual data exists that proves the LGBTQ+ community is a threat to anyone and undeserving of civil rights protection?The facts are clear: the primary threat to women and girls comes from those who commit sexual assault and harassment offenses, predominantly cisgender heterosexual white males. However, rather than confronting the actual threats to women and girls, the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa, many of whom are transgender individuals, are being unjustly scapegoated for endangering women and girls, whether its a bathroom issue, drag performance, or any space where transgender and fluid gender identities exist. This narrative is both misleading and harmful. Approximately 1.7% of the population is intersex, which means theyre not binary (ACLU). This includes differences in anatomy, hormones, and chromosomes, scientifically proven facts, not opinions. Gender and sex are not binary. All human beings should be protected by civil rights laws, especially trans and nonbinary individuals who experience hate crimes at four times the rate of their cisgender counterparts (ACLU). The real issue, the failure to prevent actual predators from engaging in sexually predatory and obscene behaviors with women and girls, has been ignored for far too long. Iowas focus should be on preventing and addressing the real threat, yet these legislative efforts are using our tax dollars to alienate and scapegoat the LGBTQ+ community, specifically the transgender community.Reality of Sexual Predators in Iowa Who Harm Women and Girls: There are 6,850 registered sex offenders in Iowa (as of February 18, 2025). 97.2% of registered sex offenders in Iowa are men compared to women. The number of transgender offenders is unknown, though transgender people make up approximately 1% of the population. 86.4% of registered sex offenders are white compared to other races.Where Should Iowas Priorities Be? Strengthening child protection laws to address real threats. Increasing funding for child welfare services and social workers to protect children from sexual predators. Addressing abuse in schools, churches, and homes, where most child abuse occurs. NOT taking away LGBTQ+ civil rights. NOT taking away the rights of individuals who were assigned the wrong gender and sex at birth, as well as those with hormonal or chromosomal differences, or those with both genitalia.Why is the LGBTQ+ community constantly being targeted and erased? The real question that should be on the legislative agenda is: what are we doing to prevent cisgender heterosexual white males from engaging in these sexually deviant and predatory behaviors against women and girls? Once you shift these priorities towards the scientific data, the real harm will disappear. Sources: Iowa Sex Offender Registry Williams Institute U.S. Sentencing Commission Iowa's Misplaced Priorities: Protecting Women and Girls or Targeting the LGBTQ+ CommunityEvery human being deserves to have their civil liberties. However, this bill threatens the rights and civil liberties of LGBTQ+ citizens. Why are they under attack? What factual data exists that proves the LGBTQ+ community is a threat to anyone and undeserving of civil rights protection?The facts are clear: the primary threat to women and girls comes from those who commit sexual assault and harassment offenses, predominantly cisgender heterosexual white males. However, rather than confronting the actual threats to women and girls, the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa, many of whom are transgender individuals, are being unjustly scapegoated for endangering women and girls, whether its a bathroom issue, drag performance, or any space where transgender and fluid gender identities exist. This narrative is both misleading and harmful. Approximately 1.7% of the population is intersex, which means theyre not binary. This includes differences in anatomy, hormones, and chromosomesscientifically proven facts, not opinions. Gender and sex are not binary. All human beings should be protected by civil rights laws, especially trans and nonbinary individuals who experience hate crimes at four times the rate of their cisgender counterparts.The real issue, the failure to prevent actual predators from engaging in sexually predatory and obscene behaviors with women and girls, has been ignored for far too long. Iowas focus should be on preventing and addressing the real threat, yet these legislative efforts are using our tax dollars to alienate and scapegoat the LGBTQ+ community, specifically the transgender community.Reality of Sexual Predators in Iowa Who Harm Women and Girls: There are 6,850 registered sex offenders in Iowa (as of February 18, 2025). 97.2% of registered sex offenders in Iowa are men compared to women. The number of transgender offenders is unknown, though transgender people make up approximately 1% of the population. 86.4% of registered sex offenders are white compared to other races.Where Should Iowas Priorities Be? Strengthening child protection laws to address real threats. Increasing funding for child welfare services and social workers to protect children from sexual predators. Addressing abuse in schools, churches, and homes, where most child abuse occurs. NOT taking away LGBTQ+ civil rights.What are we doing to prevent cisgender heterosexual white males from engaging in these sexually deviant and predatory behaviors? Why is the LGBTQ+ community constantly being targeted and erased?Sources: ACLU Iowa Sex Offender Registry Williams Institute U.S. Sentencing Commission
02-24-2025
Shannon Grogan []
CON
I oppose this bill because it is blatantly wrong to only classify people as male or female since there are so many other people with a mixture of male and female primary and secondary sex characteristics. This applies to intersex people, people who have XXY chromosomes, people who have diseases that specifically cause a genetic mutation with three X chromosomes, and more. Furthermore, gender identity and sex have never been the same, to the point where many past and present cultures have specific terms for people who identify as a third gender out of the gender binary. Trying to only make it seem like the only sexes are male and female or the only genders are men and women erases the lives of many people who deserve respect and protection because they are amazing, beautiful human beings just like everyone else.
02-24-2025
Nicole VanderLinden [none]
CON
Ive heard the arguments favoring passing HF 583, and they dont add up. Ive heard that this is about protecting women, but Im curious what you think about, for example, transmasculine men in womens restrooms or transfeminine women in mens restrooms. The only way to avoid harassment and discrimination for these people, it seems, would be to . . . stop being who they peacefully are. How is this not a violation of rights? How is this in the interest of "all Iowans"? Who is this protecting?Cisgender women? I dont buy that and am tired of being propped up as the group legislators are trying to protect."On the flip side, who does it harm to remove protections and take steps to erase transgender Iowans from public life? It harms transgender Iowans, of course, but also nontransgender women and men who dont fit one particular conception of how a woman or man should be perceived. (Are we pulling pants down now to see whos real and whos not?) It harms our children, who watch how we show up for our fellow Iowans and human rights.History, of course, is always watching.Bills like HF 583 come at a dangerously high price. They condone more of the heightened violence and discrimination transgender Americans already face. They tell our transgender neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family that they are not real Iowans who deserve equal opportunity.If we believe in a meritbased society, we must live up to our state motto and give people the Freedom to Flourish. Putting conditions on who deserves this freedom cheapens our national experiment. Ive heard the arguments that some states dont cite gender identity in their Civil Rights Act, but Im proud that ours does, and Id be ashamed to see us take the unprecedented move of stripping existing rights.Transgender people have always been here. They are not a TikTok trend. They will be here long after attempts to erase them have failed. The only question is how readily our lawmakers are going to try to erase a group of Iowans from public view, greenlighting actual harm in the process.Please vote no on HF 583.
02-24-2025
Sara Clemenson []
CON
Gender identity needs to remain part of Iowas civil rights, be taught in schools, and transgender people should have the right to have official documents reflect their gender identity.Just because you may not understand what transgender means or how it affects people does not mean civil rights should be taken away from IOWANS. The repercussions of this on the transgender communities are innumerable and unacceptable.Please do NOT pass this bill.
02-24-2025
Evander Ellsbury [Myself ]
CON
I am an Iowan and a trans man. I am proud to be one of those things today. It is not an Iowan. I take care of your sick family members in service to humanity, yet you want to make me homeless and deny me healthcare. How exactly are YOU serving humanity here? If this bill passes, people are going to die. You will have blood on your hands. Kids are going to kill themselves because you are taking away their healthcare. Adults are going to lose their jobs and not be able to care for their children. Families will be homeless. Who are you to define who people are? Who are you to play god? Stripping Iowans of their civil rights is unconstitutional. Which side of history do you really want to be on here? What you are doing is wrong. Please do not pass this bill.
02-24-2025
Rev. Lewis Cox [Ames Collegiate United Methodist Church and Wesley Foundation]
CON
To the Members of the Committee,I am writing to express my deep concern regarding HF 583, which I believe poses a significant threat to the rights and wellbeing of transgender individuals in Iowa, particularly those among the youth in our communities.As a progressive pastor and campus minister, I have the privilege of working closely with transgender youth, many of whom are already navigating complex challenges related to their identity. This bill not only denies the legitimacy of gender identity but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that could exacerbate the struggles of transgender individuals. I have seen firsthand how essential it is for young people to have the support and affirmation of their identities, both from their families and communities. This bill undermines those supportive spaces by imposing rigid definitions of sex and gender, which will likely lead to further discrimination and harm.Additionally, the bill's removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is alarming. It strips away vital protections that ensure transgender individuals are not discriminated against in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations. By codifying a narrow understanding of sex and gender into law, SF418 sends a dangerous message to trans youth that their identities do not matter, and that their rights are expendable.Transgender youth already face significantly higher rates of mental health struggles, bullying, and even violence. This bill, by denying the validity of their lived experiences and identities, could only further compound these difficulties. The exclusion of gender identity from legal protections directly contradicts the values of inclusion, dignity, and respect for all people that are central to my faith tradition.I strongly urge you to reconsider the impact of SF418 and to stand with the transgender community in Iowa. We are called to protect the most vulnerable among us and to offer support, not harm. I implore you to oppose this bill and to work toward legislation that respects the rights and humanity of all Iowans, regardless of their gender identity.Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,Rev. Lewis CoxPastor and Campus Minister, Collegiate United Methodist Church/Wesley Foundation
02-24-2025
Cara Muta []
CON
This proposed legislation is hateful, hurtful, and harmful. It is exactly opposite of our state motto. It bullies an already small and marginalized group of people who just want to live their lives in peace. This SHOILD NOT PASS!
02-24-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
Dear Iowa Lawmakers,I am writing to you today not just as a concerned citizen, but as a parentone who is deeply invested in the future of this state and in the wellbeing of my child. HF 583, a bill aimed at restricting the recognition and rights of transgender individuals, is not only a direct attack on the freedoms and dignity of thousands of Iowans, but it is also a catastrophic step backward for our states future.As written, HF 583 seeks to redefine sex and gender in ways that will have profound and damaging consequences. The bill would alter statutory language, vital records, and gender identity protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. It would also restrict school curricula related to gender theory, directly interfering with education and the ability of schools to create an inclusive learning environment. This legislation is harmful, unnecessary, and a blatant attempt to erase the existence of transgender individuals from public life.Iowa has long faced the challenge of retaining young, talented individualsa phenomenon known as the Iowa brain drain. This bill will only accelerate that problem. Young people today are looking for states that embrace diversity, equality, and opportunity. When lawmakers target marginalized groups, they send a clear message: Iowa is not a place for them. Instead of encouraging innovation and inclusion, bills like HF 583 push our brightest minds to leave for states that respect and protect their fundamental rights.My own child is a testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Iowas transgender youth. My child maintains straight As, takes college courses, and contributes meaningfully to their school and community through mock trial, jazz band, marching band, and symphonic band. They are a leader, a role model, and someone who embodies the very best of what Iowas future could be. They believe in themselves and in their ability to accomplish anythingsomething every child should have the right to do without fear of discrimination or legal erasure.Protecting my child is paramount, and I am asking youimploring younot to pass this bill. HF 583 is not about fairness or justice; it is about exclusion and harm. If this bill becomes law, Iowa will not only jeopardize the wellbeing of thousands of its own citizens, but it will also cement its reputation as a place where intolerance prevails over progress. I refuse to accept that as the future of my home state.Iowa can and must do better. I urge you to reject HF 583 and stand on the right side of history. Protect my child, protect Iowas future, and protect the countless transgender individuals who call this state home.
02-24-2025
Shellie Flockhart [Speaking for myself]
PRO
Yes
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am beyond frustrated, outraged, and insulted that the once progressive state of Iowa is currently wasting time and taxpayer resources to consider a bill introduced for no other reason than to hurt and discriminate against one of our most vulnerable protected classes. The only goal of this bill is to allow employers, public organizations, landlords, lenders, and places of worship to more easily discriminate against and exclude transgender and gender nonconforming citizens in Iowa. As a transgender Iowan who was born here, grew up here, attended Iowa public schools, and chose to continue living in the state to build a career in a highdemand industry, this bill is a slap in the face. But mine is a position of privilege. I think about the transgender minors in our state who are being told by Iowa state officials (whose job it is to serve our citizens) that their very existence will not be acknowledged. I think about the transgender folx who may soon be refused housing and will be forced to rely on our state's underfunded organizations to support the unhoused. I think about the transgender public service employees who have worked demanding jobs in service of our citizens who, upon passage of this bill, can and will be fired simply on the basis of their gender identity. By passing this bill, you will be telling Iowans that you do not care to educate yourselves or express empathy to members of this very real and vibrant community. Countless studies have shown that diversity makes us stronger as a state, but you would prefer to erase an entire group and strip us of protections in our own communities. The Republican subcommittee members may choose to ignore their blatant hypocrisy as members of the party supposedly opposed to "big government" and promoting "freedom", but Iowans know that any official supporting a bill calling for "separate but equal" accommodations, a phrase ripped straight from the pages of Plessy v. Ferguson, is on the wrong side of history. I urge you to preserve the rights of ALL Iowans.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.Government is meant to be for the people, by the people. Perhaps it is time to start using your time of service to lift people up, instead of targeting vulnerable populations of citizens and finding unique ways to strip them of their rights.
02-24-2025
Callie Bui []
CON
Please do not pass this bill. It is oppressive and cruel. Marginalizing a group of people will hurt our communities and open the door for discrimination and violence against transgender individuals. It is plain wrong. Trans people have goals and talents and would like to live happily just like everyone else does. This bill will not be a positive change to Iowa. Please do not pass this bill.
02-24-2025
C. Hutchinson-Reuss []
CON
Vote NO. The State has a responsibility to protect the civil rights and liberties of each of its citizens, to honor each persons identity. It is not the States responsibility to impose strict sex categories (that its own proposal acknowledges are not even always biologically evident at birth), to erase the identity of any individual, or limit identification in ways that require people to deny who they are. This proposal is unnecessary. It targets a small and vulnerable population of Iowans. It seems to provide a solution to a nonexistent problem. Its proponents claim protection when it in fact does harm to trans people, many of whom are young and unable to vote in their own best interests. Why not protect trans and gender nonconforming Iowans instead? Why not enact legislation that improves peoples lives? I urge you to oppose HF 583.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
As a transwoman whos lived in iowa for 18 years, i want the people spitting on my face to look me in the eyes while they do so.
02-24-2025
Fannie Hungerford []
CON
As a marriage and family therapist working in the state of Iowa, it is clear to me that this legislation will cause more harm than good in an already vulnerable population. The mental and physical well being of trans people and their families is at jeopardy. No one should have to worry about being whether their civil rights will be protected or violated. Iowa can do better. We must do better.
02-24-2025
Joe Stutler []
CON
DRAFT REMARKSJoe 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've toured concentration camps. I learned a few things.Consider Niemller's poem: First They Came....Youve said screw those hungry children.Youve continued to attack public education and educators.Youre gunning for the Trade Unionists, gutting Chapter 20 further.Youre 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.
02-24-2025
Ellie Alberhasky [Neighbors of Iowa City]
CON
No one benefits from increasing freedom to discriminate. On the contrary, Iowans who are already vulnerable are made to fear for sufficient work opportunities, stable housing, or education. Removing protections for a named group of people is an affront to all groups of people who want to trust that the government will always work for everyone not just some. Compassion, care for suffering, and a basic understanding of governance should lead elected officials to put energy into bills that promote wellbeing, opportunities, a sense of belonging and safety for all. This bill needlessly produces fear, isolation, and division.
02-24-2025
Nathaniel B Chesher [- Select -]
CON
That ANY American, much less an Iowan finds it necessary to rescind human rights to a fellow human is disgusting. To read Iowas motto on her flag, Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain; it is NOT a joke. You mock the founding of this nation as a just, free and good nation, free from the tyranny of religion. Vote no on this bill. It is absurd and a diversion for the thievery happening in Washington DC by the party of the bills sponsors.
02-24-2025
Mitchell deGroot [n/a]
CON
Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. You must vote no on this heinous bill.
02-24-2025
Eric Gidal []
CON
If you are working hard to take rights away from your fellow Iowans, that should be a red flag that there's something very wrong with your soul. Try love, not hate.
02-24-2025
Jacqueline Briggs []
CON
To judge someone according to their sex or gender identity and assess what rights they have is wrong. All people are equal under the law. Don't attempt to go backwards in the law by removing rights.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [ ]
CON
02-24-2025
Jaina Woodward []
CON
As one of the trans Iowans this bill will directly impact, I look forward to speaking against it on Thursday.
02-24-2025
Linden Thompson []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. I'm a trans Iowan. My grandparents were both born and raised on small farms outside Davenport. My wife and I moved back to Iowa five years ago, excited to live in a state where we could afford to become homeowners and put down roots. Unfortunately, while our immediate community and city has been nothing but kind and welcoming, our state legislature has spent the last few years trying to make Iowa an openly hostile place for LGBTQ+ people to move or live. Trans people like me just want to live our lives. These legal protections to prevent discrimination against our community have been in place for nearly 20 years without issue. To roll back these protections now is cruel, disgraceful, and frankly embarrassing for us as a state. Our legislature should be working to address the many actual problems facing our state. I urge you to vote no on this bill.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
What is or isn't in another person's pants is their business and not yours. He or She or They is a ridiculous fight. The State government has wasted too much time, money and resources on this nonissue, and all you will accomplish is allowing haters to hate harder and feel justified in their violence and bigotry. Everyone ... EVERYONE has a right to safety, security, fair access to employment, housing, education, and health care regardless of your opion of what should or shouldn't be in their pants. You will fail too many young adults if you remove access to information and support through the schools and other agencies.Stop trampling on Iowans' right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
02-24-2025
Kara Connor [none]
CON
I am writing in opposition of bill HF 583 formerly HSB 242. Removing an incredibly small group of vulnerable people from the protection of discrimination is appalling. As a mother and a woman, we don't need you to define what we are. There has got to be a better use of our legislators' time and energy than passing gross bills obsessed with what is in our neighbor's pants.
02-24-2025
Michal Hampton []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population. This bill is harmful, unnecessary and does reflect the values of most Iowans.
02-24-2025
Berry Stevens []
CON
Im a 14yo queer nonbinary Iowan and i deserve protection! My civil rights are important!
02-24-2025
V Fixmer-Oraiz [Resident]
CON
I oppose this bill.
02-24-2025
Alex Schuerman []
CON
I am a straight cis Christian mother who believes discrimination has no place in our state and In strong opposition to HSB 242 to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. The instructions on this form state comments go into a que for review to make sure no profane or hateful comments are posted. And the irony that Im writing to stop a hateful bill from being passed is not lost on me. The Iowa Civil Rights Act has ensured that everyone in the state, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity, can live without fear of unjust treatment or discrimination. Stripping gender identity from this law would go against the very principles of fairness, respect, and equality that Iowa is proud to uphold. I am demanding a full stop of any attempt to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Transpeople are hardworking members of the Iowa community. This bill is an unfair attack on the Iowans who are simply trying to make a living, be good community members, and raise families. Without the basic security of people able to get housing or a job without being discriminated against this will be unfairly difficult for trans people. Iowa is loosing young people each year who cannot consider building their lives or raising a family in a state that continues to attack innocent members of their communities. I am one those people. I was once proud of my home state that once stood at the forefront against the fight against slavery, and it protected gender identity in the civil rights act at time when most people had never heard of a transperson.Now I watch my home state through away so many of it's achievements and strip away the rights of thousands of Iowans and I am sick. This bill is morally wrong and there isn't a single economic benefit. This bill is motivated by hate and prejudice. A long time ago I would have said these aren't Iowa values but those who authored this bill seem to want it to be. I ask this committee to take a stand and don't let hate become a value.
02-24-2025
Rev Brigit Stevens []
CON
As an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and a parent of a nonbinary queer teenager, this bill harms my family and my soul. It is cruel and immoral to remove protection from harm from some of the most vulnerable Iowans among us.
02-24-2025
Timber stevens []
CON
This bill is dehumanizing and backwards. It harms people that I care about. Trans and nonbinary people are victims of discrimination and hate much more often than the general public. They just want a fair shot at housing, employment, and safety. This bill strips that from them.
02-24-2025
Jasmine McAleavey [Jasmine McAleavey]
CON
I do not support this. Removing Civil Rights is ethically bankrupt.
02-24-2025
Amy Kremer []
CON
Oppose! Gender identity should be protected under the civil rights ammendment. Spread knowledge and education instead of ignorance. They are people just trying to live their life. They should not have to justify their life to anyone else or fear persecution. Its their life..
02-24-2025
Ryker Fuller [N/A]
CON
My name is Ryker Fuller and I am against bill HF 583. This bill is unconstitutional we just want to exist. You are tired of us but we are just as tired of having to fight to exist. Women's bathrooms have stalls if your looking in stalls to see what a person has in their pants is insane. I'd rather a transwomen walk into the restroom behind my sister before watching someone like myself who is a man walk in behind your daughter. WE just want to go to the bathroom in peace to pee or poop and wash our hands and walk out. I'm not worried about a child being in the bathroom. I just want to do my business and walk out. I want equal rights to further my education I don't want anything more than you cis gender people have. I just want to not worry about walking out of my home and being beat to death. I want to help people I want to be able to buy a home, further my education, and proper medical treatment. Is that to much to ask for? Is that to much to just want to be equal? We don't hurt you guys but you hurt us! Make all this make sense. The current legislation doesn't give us any more rights than cis gender people. It just dumbs it down for the people who need to be told "caution contents in cup may be hot" because gosh forbid someone didn't think their coffee would be hot and got burnt. Like the song by Wrabel "The Village" states quote" there's nothing wrong with you its true its true. There's something wrong with the village" end quote. You guys who are for bill HF 583 are the village. You guys are like the birds in nature who attack a bird who's more colorful. Because In nature a flock will attack any bird who is more colorful than the others because being different is seen as a threat. Is that what this is about you guys feel we are a threat to you? Because in my eyes you guys are more a threat to Transgender people than we are to you cis gender people. My name is Ryker Fuller and I hope you take my statment into consideration. Imagine if this was you having to fight to exist. You don't want the blood on your hands of Transgender suicide because of your unconstitutional bill taking away civil rights.
02-24-2025
Kristian Maul []
CON
My name is Kristian Maul. I live in Urbandale, Iowa. I am a husband, father, and smallbusiness owner who happens to be a transgender man. I want the same thing as most Iowansthe freedom to flourish. I worry about the same things as most Iowanswill my business continue to grow, will our health insurance premiums go up again, how will we pay for our kids college tuition and expenses, whose family are we going to spend Christmas with, will the Hawkeyes (or Cyclones) win this week. If this bill passes, I and all other transgender Iowans will have a whole new set of worries every daywill I be fired from my job tomorrow, will my landlord evict me, will I be denied that small business loan, will my familys favorite restaurant refuse to serve me or sit us in a separate section, where will I use the restroom in public. Ive been using the mens restroom and locker room for 20 years. No one will feel that their privacy and safety are being protected with me in the womens facilitieswhich is what this bill will require me to do.Have the guts to own what this bill is really abouterasing transgender people from the state. Those of us who have the financial means and ability will move. Many of those of us who dont will be forced to live a lie in order to keep our jobs and a roof over our families heads. Tragically the physical and mental toll will be significant.If you don't personally know a transgender person, I encourage you to sit down and talk to someone who is transgender before voting on this bill. I would be happy to talk to you about the real experience of living as a transgender person in Iowanot the stories circulated by groups with no actual knowledge.If this bill passes and gender identity protections are removed for all Iowans, thousands of us will have no recourse for discrimination that limits our freedom to flourish. I urge you to do the right thing for Iowa and all Iowansvote no on the Iowa Civil Rights Removal Act HF583.
02-24-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
PRO
I am coming before you today as a mother, a homesteader, a sexual health educator, a birth provider, a sister, awis, and a daughter of a king. These are things I identify myself as. However, for my gender, I am a woman.You see, my identity has changed many times in my life. it is a very fluid thing. I have identified as a rebel, as a tomboy, as a gypsy traveler. As well, when I was young, I spent days playing and would have identified myself as a cat, as a dancer, as a servant, as the daddy in our play family. But you see, the only thing that has been solid, and never changed in my life is my gender.I try to be someone that is always consistent. I will speak truth and be consistent when educating on sexual health, birth processes and homesteading.I spend a lot of time explaining how the male and female bodies work. So much time have I spent on this, that I have written a curriculum for slaves being freed from brick kiln's in Pakistan with no prior education. Because you see, when it breaks down, it is very simple to teach what the male & female body does and how it reproduces. When it comes down to it. I cannot use any of my identities to classify, or legally document, who I am. However, I can speak truth about the one fact that is never changing, and that is that I am a woman. How I feel is not facts, my feelings are not to be trusted as they often change. So I will not share my feelings about the identity that I am resignating with most today. But I would ask that you pass this legislation on facts, and firm truths. Help me protect my children, and the next generations from trying to walk as grounded young men and women in a world that is swirling around them. Let's give them a factually based foundation to stand and grow on, that there are 2 genders. This should be a very easy place to start in protecting a society rooted in truth. Thank you for moving forward HSB 242.
02-24-2025
Victoria Aden [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I strongly oppose this legislation and urge you to vote NO. This legislation will legalize hate and discrimination of trans Iowans and is morally reprehensible. Arguing that protecting people based on their gender identity somehow takes away rights of women is absolute nonsense. Just stop the hateful legislation and let people live their lives with basic civil rights protections. Please work on legislation to help all Iowans such as legislation to clean our water or protect residents in Iowa nursing homes or improve public education or or feed kids or improve access to child care, rather than this hateful, culture war rubbish. Please vote NO.
02-24-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to you to ask you to protect the future of my baby daughter, Eloise. My name is Taylor Layden, I live in Urbandale, Iowa, and I am pleading with you to consider the implications of HSB242, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. Obviously, my toddler is not transgender. She does, however, have a genetic variance that would classify her as "intersex," a term you may have heard, but may not understand. You see, when my daughter was about 14 months old, she developed a hernia in her labia and we discovered that she actually has testes, and has a 46XY chromosome. Externally, she appears completely female, but her internal sexual organs do not match. Eloise is a beautiful little human and everyone who meets her just gushes about how perfect she is. She loves bows and "nacks" and cars (she's a big fan of Lightning McQueen who she calls "Queeeeeen!"). She shows empathy for others in a way that I didn't realize was possible in a 20 month old person. I am terrified of what the future may hold for my daughter because of things beyond her control. Because of her genetic variance and intersex traits, I don't know what gender Eloise will identify with when she gets older, and as much as I LOVE having a baby girl, I will cherish and love and protect my child no matter how she identifies. I fear that the world will not be so accepting and loving.HSB242 weakens protections for intersex Iowans like Eloise. It makes it so that she would be unable to change the gender marker on her birth certificate if she ends up identifying as male, despite the fact that we had no idea she had an XY chromosome when she was born. This bill sets a precedent for discrimination against anyone who doesn't fit into a gender binary. Some of you are under the impression that you are protecting women, despite there being no cases of harassment of a woman by a trans person in a public space. The truth is that this reasoning is a scapegoat to excuse fear that is a seed for hate. We have no place for that here. If you are worried about protecting women, please consider a legislation to protect victims of domestic violence and rape. I know that YOU are someone's child, just like Eloise is mine. Every intersex Iowan and transgender Iowan is also someone's child... someone's baby. Please don't make existing in this state any harder than it already is for people who are different from what is considered "normal," to exist in the world. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, no human should be discriminated against. Please vote against HSB242.
02-25-2025
LINDA SCHNEIDER []
CON
OPPOSED Everyone deserves the right to live their life as they see fit, without interference. We shouldn't be stripping any rights away with this bill. I hate to see what other rights we lose in the future, if this goes through.Please vote NO.
02-25-2025
Emma Caster []
CON
I vehemently oppose this piece of legislation. It is already creating fear and chaos in our communities and causing harm. This legislation will contribute to deaths in our community. I work as a therapist and have already seen the harm this proposed legislation is causing to the mental health of my clients. I am married to a trans woman and this legislation makes me fear for her safety and for our safety. When will Iowans stand up and say no? No more hate, no more fear mongering. Iowans deserve better.
02-25-2025
Robert Raymond []
CON
Comment On The Iowa Civil Rights Removal ActMy name is Bob Raymond. I am the proud, loving father of a son who happens to be transgender.I am calling on the legislature of Iowa to vote against one of the most inhumane pieces of legislation I can ever imagine as a citizen of the United States. It is beyond my comprehension that you would choose to strip away the civil rights of ANY American citizen because you disagree with them. That you would in effect erase them from existence. I can not believe that we as a country have come to the point where we choose to consider any of our fellow lawabiding citizens as less than worthy of the rights we ALL are entitled to under the principles upon which our country was founded.The potential harm that would come from the Iowa Civil Rights Removal Act is immeasurable. I am talking about more than not being able to change ones birth certificate, or weaken the protections for individuals who dont conform to your ideas of rigid gender norms. I am talking about the potential loss of life.I urge you to vote against this bill and not be the first state in the nation to remove the civil rights of any of your fellow American citizens.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please reject HF 583. The lives (yes, LIVES) of children are in your hands. The Trevor Project's 2024 U.S. National Survey with almost 20,000 respondents found that NINETY percent of queer people aged 13 to 25 years said their wellbeing was negatively impacted by current politics. When practically ONE IN TWO (46%) of transgender and nonbinary young people SERIOUSLY considered suicide in the past year...that's an incredible impact. Iowa was one of the most friendly states for queer people in the country just twenty years ago. Many queer people moved to the state when it was the third in the U.S. to legalize same sex marriage before Illinois, New York, California, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Washington, Oregon, and Minnesota. The same survey from the Trevor Project found that 45% of transgender and nonbinary youth have considered moving to a different state because of LGBTQ related politics and legislation. It also found that queer youth living in very accepting communities attempted suicide at LESS THAN HALF of the rate than those that lived in very unaccepting communities. One in SEVEN transgender and nonbinary young people attempted suicide in the past twelve months. I'm a trans man and when I was fourteen, I attempted suicide because I was terrified of the way my community would react if I were to come out. I was convinced that my very rural community would rather have a child die than be transgender. I never came out until after I turned eighteen, and my mental health suffered immensely. I'm genuinely lucky to have made it this far, but I'm scared for the youth that will see this bill and think that their legislators believe they are undeserving of civil rights. Will they be as lucky as I was? These bills kill queer kids every year. When people that are supposed to be representing you introduce bills like this, it's very easy to lose hope that things will get better. It's easy to internalize that other people in power think that you are insignificant and less than. The numbers don't lie. Please don't give these children a reason to believe that they are better off dead.
02-25-2025
Jacqueline []
CON
Please do not take away my right to work and live. All I want is the right to work and contribute to this fine nation and state, just like everyone else. I know you might not understand what it is like to live as a trans person, but the thought that I or others like me might be denied housing and employment without any legal recourse solely because of the type of human being we are is terrifying. Taking away our ability to update our birth certificates will only make us less safe from discrimination, but I am starting to fear that this state wants us to be discriminated against. This is my home, I have only worked to be a productive member of it, please dont take away my rights.
02-25-2025
Jesse Vroegh [Private Citizen]
CON
The Iowa legislature is not working to pass commonsense protections rather bring forth distorted, baseless facts regarding the trans community. Trans having equal rights does not take away the rights of women or any other group of people. In our country and our State, taking away rights of others should not be used in the name of protecting another group of people. Iowa should take a stand to protect ALL people, not just a selectgroup. The negative stigma and inferior status towards nonheterosexual people devalues our existence in the society. Your bill is based on fear from lack of education rather than facts. Vote no to protect human rights.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
This is a cruel targeting of an extreme minority that causes no harm and is already targeted disproportionally with hate and derision. ACTUAL harm is done by this bill by forcing individuals to live inauthentically to their true selves and this harm ripples through communities and generations. Remember when we punished people for being lefthanded? Seems dumb now, but this is very much on the same spectrum. Please, put our governing efforts to things that SUPPORT Iowans, that help us with our actual daily struggles. This obsession with dividing people by 'sex at birth' it ignorant, cruel, and ridiculous.
02-25-2025
Emily Kruse []
CON
Please do not pass this bill. Transgender people always have and always will exist. This bill will not change that fact. All it will do is make life harder and scarier for them. Why is that something you want? Do we want to be known as the first state to remove civil rights protections? If you are ok with doing that for trans people, who is next? Please consider the humanity of what this bill means. A house member said this bill is needed as it rectifies conflicts that currently exist with other laws that have been passed. If removing protections is the only way to fix those conflicts, perhaps that is a sign that those laws are not right either.Finally I am greatly concerned with how much time and energy this legislature is spending on dismantling freedoms for the LGBTQ+ community and others instead of on issues that most Iowans are actually concerned about like public education, cancer rates, assisted living facilities, water quality and the cost of living. Please stop making things harder for one group and focus on improving the quality of life for all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
02-25-2025
Cheryl Knaack []
CON
I oppose this legislation.
02-25-2025
Emma Denney [LGBTQ+ Iowa Archive and Library]
CON
This is the most regressive and hateful bill i have ever seen in Iowa, and i am horrified that this idea has made it this far. Trans people already face increased violence and discrimination with these existing protections, to remove them would open the floodgates to segregation, mistreatment, and violent marginalization. Trans people already face higher rates of sexual violence, but this bill would make it impossible for us to access most care and support services. Trans people already face high unemployment due to discrimination, but this bill would take away what little recourse we already have. This bill would force trans women into men's prisons, where they are subjected to "vcoding," documented systemic rape and sexual violence. This bill wants to exclude trans people from public life and state services entirely, going so far as to seemingly promote the vile language of Plessy v. Ferguson "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal." Vote NO on HSB 242. have some decency in your soul and empathy in your hearts.
02-25-2025
Edward Cranston [Retired]
PRO
It is important to standup for my 14 year old trans grandson. Theres no reason for his rights to be taken away.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I urge all of you to look deep inside your hearts and minds and conscience and consider what it truly means to remove civil rights protections from a tiny fraction of our state. What problem are you actually solving? As a woman who also played high school sports, I can assure you that you aren't solving any issues for me with this bill as having a trans girl on my team wouldn't bother me the male gym teacher who liked to walk in on teenage girls dressing was the problem. I have never felt unsafe or scared by a trans man or woman. I have, however, felt unsafe, been sexually harassed and assaulted by biological men in workplaces, in public spaces and in private spaces. So this bill doesn't make me feel safer in any sector in Iowa. So this bill isn't to make women safer; we know that's just a front. So I ask you to consider once again what the true purpose of this bill is and why it is necessary. We can disagree on many things but civil rights, which are just human rights enshrined in law, are not something reasonable people can disagree on. Do not set a precedent here. It is not cowardice to choose the side of compassion and empathy. It is a strength. And the trans community and their loved ones need your strength of character now. Vote no. Thank you.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is a ridiculous waste of time and money for all Iowa taxpayers. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.
02-25-2025
Judy Winkelpleck [Retired pastor]
CON
America was founded on the principle of freedom. No person being faithful to who they were created should live in fear in their educational, work, or personal life. Please do not support legislation which discriminates. Thank you.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Any bill that targets a marginalized community must be thoroughly investigated by every individual who votes for it. What if they belonged to this group? How would they feel if something about themselves were targeted by their own communities?I have many trans, queer, and genderfluid friends and coworkers, and never has their expression in any way limited my own liberty or freedom. Is politics in the business of policing identity? These are people who simply want their need for authenticity, freedom, liberty, respect, and safety to be valued equally to everyone elses.Voting for this bill is punitive, not protective. The USA I want to believe in is one where we all fight for each other's liberties, not take them away.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The proposal of this bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population. A world without trans people has never existed, and never will.
02-25-2025
Ellen Hansen []
CON
Let me see: Iowa will have only two genders, enthusiasm for glyphosate, declining education, high rates of cancer and a willingness to raise most of its corn for ethanol. Iowans are a diverse group controlled by White nationalists. Iowa tries to project an image of hard working farmers but when you drive in rural Iowa, you see huge farm equipment driven by people in air conditioned cabs wearing headphones that enable listening toRight wing extremists. Why would people move to Iowa? Why would people stay in Iowa? If you had stood with other protesters on the 24th as I did, you might have opened your mind even to notice how much more interesting and vibrant the people were than say those on your committees. You wont notice though because you are afraid afraid of very gentle people.
02-25-2025
Laura Willrich []
CON
I'm honestly not sure what to say. Every other bill that has been considered by this legislature has had some grain of legitimacy to it. They've all been way too broad and sweeping and hurt way too many people for the thing they were trying to accomplish, but there was always some grain of a why. This bill doesn't even have that. The sole purpose of this bill is to make trans people's lives worse. There's not really any rational persuasive arguments left for this bill. I could explain how this is going to hurt trans people, but it's hard to believe that the legislature would think anything besides "yeah thats the point". All I can do now it was appeal to your humanity and say that we're not this Boogeyman that you think of us as, we're just people trying to live our lives. We have families who love us. We have jobs and hobbies and we volunteer in our community. I'm begging you to stop trying to pass laws that exist to hurt us.
02-25-2025
Joseph Stevens []
CON
Saturday, Patriot Front marched through Des Moines. Today, Iowa lawmakers are debating whether to strip civil rights from transgender people. Are we going to sit here and pretend they're not related? This bill is hatecoded as law. If it passes, Iowa will be the first state to remove civil rights protections since the South tried to legislate racism after the Civil War. Thats not leadershipit's bullying, Its bad politics, and it's B.S. Young workers, businesses, kids and parents looking at colleges, and anyone whos ever met a trans person are paying attention to whether Iowa has a future or is a regressive backwater. Thats a lot of lost tax base money for Iowa. If this bill passes today, Iowa will be losing tomorrow.Theres a chance to do something rare in politics: the right thing. Vote no on this bill. Or at least be honest and change the state motto to Iowa: Now With Fewer Rights.
02-25-2025
Riley Larson [NA]
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-25-2025
Nick Covington []
CON
Iowans oppose HF 583, and I urge you to vote against this harmful bill. If passed, it would strip away essential protections for transgender Iowans and create unnecessary challenges for others who dont fit into its rigid definitions.Every hardworking person in our stateincluding transgender Iowansdeserves to be treated fairly and equally under the law. Everyone should have the chance to earn a living, secure housing, and provide for their families without fear of discrimination. But if someone cant rent an apartment, get a credit card, or access basic services simply because of who they are, how can we expect them to thrive on a level playing field? These antidiscrimination protections are foundational to a fair and meritbased society, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities regardless of their identity or how others perceive them.Whats more, this bill doesnt just harm transgender Iowansit also weakens protections for nontransgender women by undermining safeguards against sex stereotyping, which arent explicitly covered in Iowas current sex discrimination laws.Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family members, and coworkers. They deserve to live their lives with dignity, free from discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. Please stand with themand with all Iowans who believe in fairness and equalityby voting against HF 583.I hope youll do whats right to protect the rights and dignity of all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Athena Moad []
CON
HS 583 features a slew of incorrect information, so for it to be considered for enacting into law is preposterous. It seeks to not only erase intersex people (those who do not have a simple Male or Female designation either assigned at birth or later in life) but it endeavors to make sex and gender synonymous terms. The role of gender and gender identity is expression, not biology. Everyone, including cisgender people, choose their gender identity and expression every day. The legislators reviewing this House File and even those reading this comment choose their gender every day. In the clothes you wear, the pronouns you use (because everyone does use them), even your name. Maybe you have a nickname; are we doing away with those? Are we suddenly so worried about people looking different from the way they did 5 years ago? Because thats really just how it works when you get older. So I ask you: why are those whose gender identity and expression match their gender assigned at birth allowed to choose, but trans people are not? Because there should be no difference. We are all people and we are all unique. I oppose HF 583 and you should, too.
02-25-2025
Kristin Dietzel []
CON
I am urging you to reject this bill and kill this cruel, unnecessary legislation. We heard loud and clear from Iowans this week that removing protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is unpopular and unwanted in Iowa. We do not want our state to be known for this first in the country status nor for adding separate but equal style language to Iowa code. This bill does not solve any identifiable problem faced by everyday Iowans and their families. By contrast, Iowa does in fact have the 4th highest rate of brain drain in the countryan actual problem that makes it difficult for employers to find workers and for our economy to thrive. I am a small business owner and also involved economic development in Dubuque, and I can tell you firsthand that potential newcomers and existing residents of the state are scared off by Iowa's draconian scale back of protections and freedoms for hardworking Iowans, paired with lack of support for education and workforce training. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated equally by the laws of our state. We should be encouraging Iowans to live and work here, not forcing family dinner table discussions about leaving this statewhich frankly is happening all across my age demographic (I am 42, work full time, and have children in school).Civil rights protections are a basic human right. They are not a problem that is affecting every day Iowans. Please do the job you were elected for and put your efforts towards actual issues faced by Iowans, like workforce recruitment and retention, educational decline, and land and water degradation.
02-25-2025
Ben Lynch [Ben Lynch Law]
CON
This bill is dangerous and unfair to the LGBT. I would like to speak.
02-25-2025
Laura Berardi [Parent of a trans child]
CON
My daughter was born in 2011. From the time she could speak, she made it known who she really was a girl. We may not fully understand why someone is transgender, but we should believe them when they tell us who they are. She has been protected by the Iowa Civil Rights Code her entire life. Do not take her rights away.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [private citizen]
CON
Why would the state of Iowa seek to promote bigotry and discrimination? The bill conveys a strange obsession with the small percentage of our state's population who are transgender, and who in fact contribute to the state and to our communities in many important ways. The bill would scrutinize, harass, and discriminate against transgender people. Please just let people live their lives. Everyone deserves social conditions in which they can seek happiness and freedom. I most strongly oppose this bill.
02-25-2025
Julie Buscher [Julie Buscher]
CON
Leave people alone. Shame on you for believing that you have the right to tell others about their own bodies! Shame on all of you. Unfortunately, this is the first time in my 55 years of life that I've felt a desperate need to get involved in politics...this is ludicrous! What are you people actually doing in our government? You're supposed to be "for the people" and not "for the billionaires". Jesus would be applaud...and so am I. Shame on you for supporting the garbage just to save your job...or, shame on you for believing that you have the right to control my body! Oh...and for perspective sake...I'm a straight, Caucasian woman who who survived a brain aneurysm and met Jesus... believe me when I say ...he's not impressed. Protect the people. Please. I'm begging you. I can no longer physically fight...I can, however, crochet...and I will continue to spread my love through crochet! LOVE ALWAYS WINS! Have U Got A Healthy Attitude Today?
02-25-2025
Eleanor Dilkes []
CON
Good morning,I am a life long Iowan and retired attorney. I have always been proud of our states long history of supporting civil rights. It is terribly sad to see this attempt to remove gender identity from our civil rights act and thereby condone discrimination in employment, housing, credit, education and public accommodations. Please vote against this bill.Eleanor Dilkes
02-25-2025
Morgan Clark [none]
CON
"Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain" Unless you're trans. Then Republicans want you to be fired from your job for coming out, or denied an apartment, or denied a mortgage, or rejected from your dream school. They also want to be especially sure everyone knows to discriminate, so they're banning gender marker changes. This bill is a blatant discriminatory attack, and would make Iowa the first in the nation to remove civil rights protections from a group of people. It's downright shameful. Jeff Shipley, if you're reading this, I heard your bad faith argument yesterday, saying "a protected characteristic needs to be immutable, so if it changes over someone's life it can't be protected." Is one's religion immutable? Is one's age immutable? Is one's disability status immutable? You don't care about immutability, you just hate trans people. And for the record, I've always been trans. Just because it wasn't safe to come out earlier doesn't mean I haven't always been me. I will continue to be me, and we will outlast you.
02-25-2025
Molly Hanson [Indianola Hills Neighborhood Association ]
CON
When has anyone ever stood on the right side of history by stripping their own constituents of their civil rights? Stop persecuting our friends and neighbors who are simply trying to live their lives. This bill is so incredibly harmful and so incredibly unnecessary. Stop wasting your time and our tax dollars trying to ruin peoples lives and focus on things Iowans actually care about. Fund public schools, feed kids and make sure our water is clean. Spend some time on those issues. By removing protections against discrimination for transgender people from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, you are making our friends and neighbors less safe. They will be more likely to be homeless, more likely to kill themselves, more likely to be cast out and victimized by violence. This would wreak havoc on the lives of transgender people across the state, upending their ability to do basic things like rent an apartment or get a credit card. You are doing that to your fellow Iowans by introducing this bill and othering individuals who contribute to our community and are in no way a threat to you. Its policies like this that drive young people out of Iowa. Its embarrassing to have such closeminded leadership making decisions for a rapidly diversifying population. You have lost touch. You do not represent me. You do not represent the LGBTQ community. You do not represent young people. You do not represent anyone who thinks or looks or worships or moves around differently than you do. Its absolutely unacceptable and unwanted. I urge you to stop HSB 242. No one asked you to do this and the results will be absolutely disastrous for my family and my community.
02-25-2025
Stella Armstrong []
CON
What an absolute farce of a bill were being presented. Any and all lawmakers who support this bill have shown their true faces and should not receive another vote for the rest of their lives. The people of Iowa love their trans neighbors, as evidenced by the 99.9% ratio of comments pleading for this bill to die already. Just because a vocal minority of radicalized evangelicals think we should all live in the dark ages (when they held all the power, notably enough), does not mean that grants ANYONE the power to legislate away entire populations of people. This country was founded on a separation of church and state, but you seem to conveniently keep forgetting that when creating this legislation and many others from recent sessions. To anyone who has pushed this bill as far as it has come and to those who continue to support it, YOU WILL LOSE. Vote NO on HF 583.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Kindness to all]
CON
Shame on the Iowa Legislature! What a total injustice to human rights for all!
02-25-2025
Nat Hall []
CON
Please register my opposition to this bill. Specifically on behalf of transgender and nonbinary youth in Iowa. I am opposed to any bill that seeks to remove civil rights for any group of people. I am especially opposed to this bill as LGBTQ+ youth in Iowa deserve to be protected. In 2023, the Trevor Project found that "over 40% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year" (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey2023/). I have seen proponents of this bill claim that it is intended to "protect children." I am writing today as a voice for LGBTQ youth and I am telling you that this bill will directly harm children in Iowa. There are LGBTQ children in Iowa, including transgender and nonbinary children. They deserve protections too, and they deserve to grow into adults with the same civil rights as all others. Do not pass this bill.
02-25-2025
Mae Peterson [none]
CON
Iowa is going backwards, and stripping the protections and civical rights of marginalized communities. Bill HF 583 is harmful and hateful. No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities based on how they personally identify. Risking one groups civil rights is an absolute risk to everyone's civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population. This bill will do great harm, and Iowans will suffer because of it.
02-25-2025
Lauren Hansen []
CON
Health, safety and privacy. These are the reasons for stripping away civil rights for a protected class? STRIPPING CIVIL RIGHTS AWAY. ARE WE EVEN TRYING TO FIGHT FOR FREEDOM ANYMORE?? If you justified that with any other protected class, that would be sounding major alarm bells. This will help NO ONES HEALTH. Suicide will skyrocket. Medication could be legally not provided to us. Just say you want us dead! In fact, I was here last week for the drag bill. Your republican colleague passed the legislation and had the audacity to say she wasn't transphobic, and no harm would come to us. 3 days later you write up legislation to strip us of our CIVIL RIGHTS. THIS DOES NOT INCREASE SAFETY. HATRED WILL BE JUSTIFIED by YOU to cause harm to us by people on the streets. We can be legally denied life saving care, shelter, and food.THIS DOES NOT INCREASE PRIVACY. You're having to dig deep into our records to know who's what. The extra time this takes when we could be solving real problems like iowas horrendous child labor laws or the fact that Kim Reyonalds made the homeless illegal the day before a major cold spike should be more on your radars, but you continue to hurt us and push down the vulnerable again, and again, and again and again. Why do you constantly want to punch down on Iowans? I've been asking myself that question for a while now.
02-25-2025
Carolyn Wiezorek [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I vehemently oppose this bill. It takes a page from Nazi Germany and the authoritarian play book. I had never understood how the Holocaust happened, however the current Iowa legislature is (and has for the past few years) made it abundantly clear to me how "good" people can do evil things. This bill strips people of their dignity, human rights, and civil rights. Those of you who vote for it will be responsible for the atrocities that will follow.Many of you claim to be Christian, however you cannot claim to profess the faith and take actions that directly oppose the teachings of Jesus. He would never condone this blatant discrimination regardless of how you twist yourselves in knots to defend it.HF53 and other bills that attack our most vulnerable family members, neighbors, and friends mock the "Iowa Nice" slogan and contribute to our state's brain drain and attrition.I will close with a quote from Martin Niemller, a Lutheran pastor in Germany who first sympathized with the Nazis, but then became a critic.First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a socialist.Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a trade unionist.Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a Jew.Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me.May you too, become a critic of these Nazi laws before our people are harmed.
02-25-2025
Eli Dohrn []
CON
If we open the door for this kind of bigotry then we are allowing for harm to come to every vulnerable population in Iowa. This will not stop with just trans people. Granting protections to someone does not take away from others. If we want to protect disabled Iowans, Iowans of color, Iowans in poverty, and Iowans in general then we must protect even those we hate. Even if you hate me and my fellow trans siblings, we are the canary you are killing to allow for other atrocities to flourish.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Our fellow Americans should not have to worry about being fired or denied housing and educational opportunities. Taking one groups civil rights is damaging to everyones civil rights.
02-25-2025
Nicole VanderLinden []
CON
Resubmitting a comment in the hopes of speaking at the public hearing. There are so many reasons to vote no HF 583 . . . about 7100, in fact.
02-25-2025
Elizabeth Arnold [Self]
CON
The granting of civil rights protections is not done to elevate the rights of one individual over another. It is done when the rights of a group of people are frequently violated by others. Removing civil rights protections actively hurts Iowans.Rep Holt has admitted that the bills he has supported that are harmful to LGBTQ+ Iowans violate the Iowa Civil Rights Act. It is clear to me that he knows the hate in his heart and the harm he is doing. He wants to remove civil rights protections for all marginalized groups, because he believes that will make us all equal. Must be rough being a CIS white man, huh, having to treat others with the respect that you get by default.Civil Rights aren't pie. When we give protections to others, we aren't hurting ourselves. We are uplifting and respecting all. We aren't threatening protected places, we are asking to make sure ALL people are safe. We are asking that our friends, family, and neighbors have a safe place to live and work. Respecting us doesn't disrespect you.
02-25-2025
Samantha West []
CON
Dear Sirs and Madams,I'm writing to you today to talk about HSB242 First, some background on me. My name is Samantha, and I was born and raised in Iowa. I have served my communities endlessly, never asking for anything in return. I still do this today, though not in any official capacity.I have ten years as a fire fighter. Fourteen as an Emergency Medical Technician. Twelve as a hazardous materials technician on a stand alone hazardous materials response team that covered 7 counties. Six years as a cop. All of that as a volunteer.I spent fourteen years protecting Iowa's only nuclear power plant, and the surrounding communities.You may be thinking that that is an impressive amount of service. I know I have friends and family that agree. Apparently though, since I'm a transgender and nonbinary individual, none of that means anything. To those of you reading this at least.You see, you seek to erase me. You seek for me to no longer be able to live a happy and meaningful life. You can say that you don't want that, but if that's true, why is HSB242 even a document? Does anything I've done in my 44 years of life even exist at this point? Do I need to track down the countless people I've helped? The dog that survived a house fire because of me? The people that still have that house because I was there that day? Without me, who would have been on that nozzle that day? Do I need to track down the young man that was lost and I was able to reunite him with his parents?You see, I've made a difference during my life. I never asked for any compensation for many of the things I've done. You, however, asked for people in the communities that you serve, to elect you to a paid position with the expectation that you do what is right for those same people. Nothing wrong with getting paid, until you start going against the wishes of those same people.You want me gone. You want those like me gone. Would you prefer that I take myself out of this world? Would that make you feel better? Would it ease your budget somehow if I where no longer alive? By passing this bill, that is exactly what you are doing. You are killing those that you were elected to protect. It's bad enough that national politicians want me gone. I really shouldn't have to fear my fellow Iowans as well.Please reconsider passing this bill.Your fellow Iowan,Samantha W.21 February 2025
02-25-2025
Pastor David Borger Germann []
CON
As a pastor, I am opposed to this bill. It stands in opposition to everything the gospel stands for: truth, love, and redemption. The truth is that human sexuality and gender identity are incredibly diverse. God made us that way. I urge the House to reject this bill.
02-25-2025
Susan Shullaw []
CON
I cannot understand the cruelty behind a bill that would strip basic human rights away from any class of Iowa citizens. HF583 is not only unAmerican and unChristian, but like every similarly discriminatory provision (Jim Crow laws come to mind), it preys on a population already made vulnerable due to longstanding and misguided prejudice. This bill will do real harm, especially among young people already struggling with fear, depression, and suicidal ideation. If this bill moves forward, it will confirm that every Iowan's civil rights are at risk. ALL Iowans should be equal under the law, regardless of race, creed, color, or gender. Please reject HF583 and the hateful views it represents.
02-25-2025
Christina McCleary []
CON
The job of this group is to represent ALL Iowans. Striping rights away from people who already have them is absolutely heartless. Iowa used to be a leader in humanity and equality, care for our neighbors. This bill goes against that and all we stand for and is based in fear and hate, not love and understanding. Please do NOT pass this. Vote no. Please don't be on the wrong side of history. Remember that people are people regardless of their gender identity and we are called to love and care for All people, All Iowans.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This negates a minority population by specifically stating two sexes. Intersex individuals who are born with outward appearing biological traits of either male or female may later in life learn that they also have biological traits of the opposite sex. How are they able to move forward in deciding how to be identified by the outside world if they are restricted by this bill.
02-25-2025
Mic Zilkey [n/a]
CON
We will not be silenced.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
First they came for the CommunistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a CommunistThen they came for the SocialistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a SocialistThen they came for the trade unionistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a trade unionistThen they came for the JewsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a JewThen they came for meAnd there was no one leftTo speak out for me
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this bill. This is discrimination and would be taking a huge step backwards. ALL people should have the basic civil rights to identify in a way that feels true to them. Proposing bills that tell people that they are wrong for being who they are is no better than Nazis being against Jewish people for their religion. We need to move forwards and evolve into a culture of acceptance, inclusivity, and tolerance for that which we might not agree with or understand. This bill would move us backwards and only supports discrimination and oppression of a minority group. Again, I oppose this bill.
02-25-2025
Laurie Zaiger []
CON
This is a cruel bill that allows discrimination of a treasured population in our state. You are using this false danger to distract from all the harmful legislation you are passing. Shame on you.
02-25-2025
Dana Keeton []
CON
I writing to voice my strong opposition to HF583.No Iowa citizen should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups' civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable transgender population. If the bill passes, these risks will very likely increase.Please, please take the welfare of ALL of Iowa citizens into account when considering your vote on this discriminatory legislations. Thank you for hearing my views, of the voices of ALL Iowa citizens.
02-25-2025
Sarah Hedlund []
CON
I am horrified by this bill; why our elected officials are wasting time and tax dollars to take rights away from citizens is beyond me. Trans Iowans are humans; they are our friends, family members, coworkers, and neighbors. They deserve the same fundamental civil rights the rest of us have; if you start taking civil rights from groups of people YOU don't like, we are all in danger, not just Trans folks. Just because a group of citizens live their lives in a way you don't understand or like doesn't mean you get to treat them like less than human. I'm ashamed to be from Iowa right now; this bill is horrific and dangerous. These laws are making young citizens flee from our state and stopping young folks from coming into the state for college; if this passes, Iowa will become public enemy number one for the younger generation. What will our state's future be without young citizens coming in or staying? Please vote NO; all humans are created EQUAL. No matter how they dress or what pronouns they use, Trans Iowans are Iowans, and you work for US. Don't let hate and prejudice win.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
This is America at its worst! We are persecuting lgbtq indiviuals that are harming no one. How can anyone take pride in a state or country that is taking away someone's sense of self based on their own lack of knowledge or biases. It is not ok under any circumstances to harm individuals because you have a different view or belief.
02-25-2025
Rebecca [N/A]
CON
Please Vote No on HSB242.This bill would take away basic protections for transgender Iowans others who dont fit into its narrow definitions.No one should be denied a home, a job, or basic services just because of who they are. If we want a system based on merit, people need equal access to opportunities, free from discrimination.This bill also puts protections for nontransgender women at risk by weakening sex stereotyping protections.Transgender people are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family. They should be treated like anyone elsefairly and equally. Please stand against discrimination and vote NO on HSB242.Thank you.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to this bill
02-25-2025
Bailey Borchert []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill as a lifelong Iowan and as a woman who's an ally to the transgender community. This bill is allegedly to "protect" people like me, but it endangers many and helps no one.
02-25-2025
Jamie Tighr []
CON
My trans sisters, brothers, and nonbinary friends will be greatly impacted by this bill. I do not want this bill to pass. Transgender people have the right to exist and be protected by the law in Iowa. Trans people deserve the right to use the bathroom, play sports, and have their name and gender reflect their gender identity. Restricting such things is an act of transphobia and spreads hateful ideology towards them. People who are transgender are human and deserve to be protected as such.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I urge you to vote against HSB242.This bill would strip essential protections from transgender Iowans and others who dont conform to its restrictive definitions. Everyone deserves fair access to housing, employment, and basic services. No one should face discrimination simply for being who they are. A system based on merit requires equal opportunity, free from unjust barriers. Additionally, this bill undermines protections for nontransgender women by weakening safeguards against sex stereotyping. Transgender individuals are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family. They deserve the same fairness and equality as everyone else.Please take a stand against discrimination and vote NO on HSB242. Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-25-2025
Gavin []
CON
My name is Gavin, I would like to speak against this bill that is a very obvious and flagrant violation of my civil rights.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I vehemently oppose this bill. Please focus on the important issues and not spreading hate and legalizing discrimination.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Sophie Book club ]
CON
After 1933 Nazi Germany targeted transgender people sending them to concentration camps and Destroying communities (Transgender experiences in Nazi Germany, N. D.). Today we are creating laws that target transgender people. We are now red flagged by international genocide watch dogs (Red flag alert for genocide United States:rise of the Nazi salute, 2025).This is NOT my America. This is NOT my Iowa. We should be fighting against this not for it. Stop hurting the transgender community. They are apart of our community and families. Dont let hate create new Nazis. Reference: Transgender experiences in Nazi Germany, (N. D.) museum of Jewish heritage a living memorial to the holocaust. Retrieved on 2/25/25 from: Transgender Experiences in Weimar and Nazi Germany mjhnyc.orgRed flag alert for genocide United States:rise of the Nazi salute, ( January 20, 2025) Lemkin institute for genocide prevention and human security. Retrieved on 2/25/25 from: Red Flag Alert for Genocide United States: The Rise of the Nazi Salute Lemkin Institute
02-25-2025
Anonymous [NA ]
CON
This bill would greatly harm more people than what is publicized. No one deserves to have their rights stripped away regardless. Anyone who is intersex (this is biological not a gender identity) would not be able to receive the proper care to feel comfortable in their body. Any nongender conforming identification would be in danger with this. Science has shown that nongender conforming people in nonsupportive environments tend to higher risks of suicide and self harm in comparison to those who are in supportive environments. Changing gender identities is not a mental condition, please see the DSM 5 for information on this. Please don't discount someone's life for one label they have, you wouldn't want to be discounted for one of yours either.
02-25-2025
Sue Ellingsen []
CON
Please do NOT support HF 583. This would remove civil rights protections for transgender Iowans, making Iowa the ONLY STATE to do this. It is cruel and reprehensible to try to turn back the hands of time. In my Christian tradition, I was taught to love, not hate.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a proud Iowan, I believe in the fundamental American values of freedom, fairness, and limited government overreach. Our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainreflects the belief that all Iowans should have the opportunity to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference.Thats why I have serious concerns about HF 583. This bill would create new government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has long been a leader in civil rights, and we should be ensuring that our laws protect personal freedom, not restrict it.Furthermore, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it could have unintended consequences. It may encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.I urge you to oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas legacy as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-25-2025
Max Umphress []
CON
HF 583 and SF 418 are despicable attempts to remove rights and protections from marginalized and yet extremely important populations of Iowa. Iowa has been abhorrent population growth this century due to a unignorable % of its people choosing to flee to safer, more welcoming, and progressive states and cities.This is a result of Iowa governments failure to secure protections for its marginalized populations. Just because we had that one win for gay marriage doesnt mean that were progressive, safe, or welcoming. In fact, theres evidence to suggest thats the next thing the conservative voter base would like to go after next.Trying to pretend that these populations dont exist, dont deserve recognition, or cannot selfpopulate is extremely harmful and albeit wishful(?) thinking.These marginalized populations are what keeps Iowa in check, what keeps its communities and cities wholesome, and what helps breathe new life into the cultural progress of the state.You should fear for the state without culture.Block these bills.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Government exists to help people secure their human rights, not take them away. People will be seriously, immediately, and irreparably harmed by this bill. Why are you treating people as less than fully human?
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Brianna Stoever [N/A]
CON
I am vehemently opposed to this bill. Hear me as a life long Iowan, I urge any and all legislators to vote no, reject, and put these kinds of bills to rest. They are not needed in our state. Does anyone want to be touted at the first state to revoke rights? Our government is for the people, and yet we are going against all people with a bill this harmful. Trans people are people. They deserve the same rights, respect, and dignity as anyone else. I have never feared a trans person, I will never fear a trans person. I do however fear this government that chooses to revoke the rights to an entire group of people. I ask who is next because historically when one groups rights are taken, others are set to follow. I will not be silenced and will not sit by silently as others rights are taken away. We stand against hatred and transphobia. Fix the issues with Iowas education, health care, and economy. Targeting a group so harshly that has done absolutely nothing is a slap in the face to all of Iowa. Why are we fighting so hard to pass this bill when there is actual suffering happening to all people that has nothing to do with trans people and everything to do with the egregious misrepresentation of our needs and allocation of the time and energy of our politicians? VOTE NO. KILL THIS BILL. HELP ALL IOWANS AND HEAR US NOW. We will remember where your inaction on real issues lies and vote accordingly.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The Iowa state legislature seems more focused on attacking its own citizens than improving the economy. Can you tell us how this bill will improve the lives of Iowans? Can you tell us how implementing this bill will provide support for Iowa's most vulnerable citizens? Can you tell us how this bill does any good whatsoever for hardworking Iowa citizens whose tax dollars are wasted on futile culture wars when so many Iowans go hungry every day? What are you doing wasting time talking about these issues when our economy is performing so poorly? What are you doing to actually improve the material conditions of our communities? Can you tell us why you seem to have no concern for the civil rights of the constituents you have been elected to serve? Can you tell us why you waste time and money attacking those whom you have been elected to serve?
02-25-2025
Taylor Vanatter []
CON
My name is Taylor and I am a born and raised Iowan.I strongly believe discrimination should have no place in our state and I am writing to you today to express my strong opposition to HSB242. This bill would remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.I am asking you to reject HSB242, as it would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create problems for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions.Every Iowan should be treated fairly and justly in our state, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity they should be able to live, rent an apartment, access healthcare systems, and work in our state, without fear of discrimination or judgement, just like their cisgendered straight counterparts.The Iowa Civil Rights Act ensures that, and I am strongly urging you to vote against HSB242.Taylor VanatterCedar Rapids, IA
02-25-2025
Corey Tucker [Registered Voter]
CON
As others have mentioned, this proposed bill is a contradiction of Iowas state motto "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." It is the duty of Iowa State legislators to uphold the civil rights of all of their constituents, including people who identify as transgender. No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing, or denied educational opportunities. The proposal of such a bill is an attempt to further marginalize an already vulnerable population, and will surely lead to an increase of fear, depression, and suicidal ideation within the LGBTQIA+ community.Furthermore, risking one groups' civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. All citizens deserve to have equal rights under the law. This proposed bill goes against the 14th amendment of the US constitution which says that no state can "deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."
02-25-2025
Ronn Munsterman [- Select -]
CON
This is another blatantly discriminatory action by the Iowa Republicans. The only thing these people do is take away rights. Democrats are the people who protect rights. This will hurt many people, and despite what Republicans believe, Trans people are humans. Republicans are frightening the entire LGBTQ+ community because of the Republicans intolerance, hatred of "other", and cruelty. That the Republicans are in power in the state is catastrophe for those who oppose them.Vote no! For the sake of humanity, vote no!
02-25-2025
Whitney Free [Consituent]
CON
Every constituent and legislator who brings their Christian faith into this conversation should be shut down immediately for violating the separation of church and state. This is a gross misrepresentation of Christianity, and cherry picking verses to support one narrowminded viewpoint is such a tired and disgusting tactic.It is also painfully clear that the legislators pushing this bill forward are not listening to trans people and their families when they speak. If they were, it would be obvious to them that this bill cannot pass.Spend your time on legislation that will reduce our growing cancer rates, revitalize our failing education and healthcare systems, and stop the exodus of good people from this state.VOTE NO.
02-25-2025
Laura Hanson []
CON
Our rights we will maintain. Every single Iowans rights. Without exception. Please vote no on HF 583.
02-25-2025
Stacy Broders []
CON
We cannot allow discrimination of any human, this is nothing but pure hatred and Iowa Republicans and those who support this should be ashamed that they're focusing so much attention on a nonissue, like people being themselves, rather than focusing on real problems like food insecurity and houselessness, school safety . Iowa is no longer a great place to live or raise a family.
02-25-2025
Heidi Edwards []
CON
02-25-2025
Rockwell Adamson []
CON
Requesting to speak and testify on Thursday.
02-25-2025
Chris Goodman []
CON
As an Iowan and an American, I am saddened and disgusted with the direction our county and state are heading. We started this "Great Experiment" with only white men having a voice. Now, with a lot of blood, sweat and tears, equality and rights have given a voice to the voiceless. But now, those are eroding away... Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Maintain for who? Who are we to choose who has these rights? To remove gender from protection is too invite hate and violence on an already attacked minority. Transgender Iowans only make up a FRACTION of our population. 7,000 Iowans! The definition of a minority. You would have to be blind or callous to not see the hate and violence against these people nationally. Now imagine if it's a friend, coworker or a loved one. I have heard Republicans use the term "erasing women"... SHAME ON YOU! How low will you go... Do not use women as an excuse for your hate and misunderstanding. Women are NOT being erased! I will not stand here and let you tell ME I'm being erased when I see Nazis parading around Des Moines, people like Sam Nordquist being tortured and killed. I will but stand here while you THINK you know about biology and genetics when all you have to go on is fear and hate. People don't CHOOSE to be Trans, no more than you choose to have brown eyes. It happens during the time of brain development in the fetus. Has anyone even sat down with a Trans person and listened! Truly listened! I listened to the committee hearing the other day and was appalled. There was no active listening or debate. It was confirmation bias, ignorance and hate for someone who doesn't look like you. I am appalled and absolutely furious that we are focusing on this while there is so much more going on in the state, The brain drain, the lack of transparency with the school voucher system In the high cancer rate that islands have to live with. When are you going to do your real job?
02-25-2025
Madeline Smith []
CON
Iowa would make history as the first state in the nation to repeal a protected class from their Civil Rights Act. We use to make history as a leader in civil rights but now we have turned a very dark corner. I am pleading with you reject this bill.
02-25-2025
Cindy Johnson []
CON
I urge you not to pass HF 583. This bill is unnecessary and would only serve to harm many Iowans by denying their existence. The bill seeks to redefine sex and gender in ways that are medically incorrect as currently understood and will have broad and damaging consequences. According to the American Medical Association and the National Society of Genetic Counselors, sex and gender are distinct concepts that should not be used interchangeably. Sex is a concept used to describe people based on characteristics such as internal and external genitalia, chromosomes, and hormones. Many factors play a role in influencing sex characteristics and people may have variations of sex characteristics that do not exclusively align in a male and female sex binary. In contrast, gender describes the selfunderstanding of being a man, woman, both, nonbinary, different gender, or agender. Legislating that gender is the same as sex, doesnt make it so and to pass HF 583 will only serve to place people who dont fall within the proposed strict binary definition at increased risk of discrimination in jobs, housing, and credit.
02-25-2025
Lauren Grask []
CON
02-25-2025
David Dawson []
CON
02-25-2025
Jane Freeman []
CON
Please vote no on this cruel and unChristian bill.This isnt the Iowa nice that everyone told me Iowa was famous for but hateful and baseless. If the most vulnerable of our population isnt safe then neither are we as women, minorities, the older population, etc.
02-25-2025
Heather Riley []
CON
I am the parent of a transgender adult, now 25 years old. My child, who grew up attending K12 classes in the Winterset Community School District, struggled terribly during adolescence yet came through it using therapy and with the embrace of a wildly supportive family and circle of friends. He is now a college graduate, an accountant in the Des Moines area, selfsufficient, and a firstclass human. The transgender population is a very tiny percentage of Iowans, yet each year, bills such as HF583 are proposed which seek to diminish the humanity of these Iowans and make life even more difficult. Singling out this minority group for potential discrimination, mistreatment, persecution, and harassment is unacceptable, wrong, and dangerous ideology. This proposed legislation solves no problem and it's a disgrace that we must continue to fight for the dignity of this small subset of Iowans who just want to be left alone, free from government interference in their lives. Please do not support this bill and focus, instead, on issues that advance the lives and livelihoods of Iowans. ALL Iowans.
02-25-2025
Gwyn Bertocki [none]
CON
I am a born and bred Iowan. I used to be so proud of that fact. Now, frankly, I am embarrassed. I am humiliated to admit I'm from this oncegreat state. But I'll tell you what I AM proud of: my kid. He bravely walked away from a fiance just weeks before the wedding and moved back here to Iowa to make a life as his true self, as a trans person. And now the Iowa Republicans want to deny him that life. They want to take away his basic human rights to have a place to live, a car loan, an education, a job, healthcare... those everyday things many of us take for granted. Defining a person based on what you can see on one piece of an intricate jigsaw puzzle is madness; you need to see the whole picture to know who someone is... or isn't. There are many pieces in a biological puzzle. Hormones, brain chemistry, genes, cell receptors, chromosomes. They are all part of our biology, and we can no more deny them than we can deny our fingers or our nose. Each biological piece can have a message saying it is male, or female, or even nonbinary. When you put them all together you make a unique human being. It is illogical and inhuman to put a binary label on that being when you cannot see their entire self. And no law should ever try. I am here to ask you to oppose this bill that will reduce my kid, my friends, my fellow Iowans to a single piece of an otherwise beautiful puzzle, a piece that can cost them their very existence, that will take away everything that matters in a life, just because a handful of people are uncomfortable with biological truth. Trans people make Iowa what it should be: a great state of wonderful people who care about each other and make a positive difference in their communities. Please don't erase my child. Please don't erase my friends. Please vote against this travesty of a bill.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Civil rights belong to everyone!!! Take away one group's and you're on a slippery slope to losing your own...
02-25-2025
Jane Harney []
CON
I do not support any legislation that discriminates against Iowans. I am a white, married, heterosexual woman in her mid50s that was born and raised in Iowa. This type of legislation is not reflective of the Iowa in which I was raised. And those of my generation and the generations before know that to be true. No good can come from turning our backs on Iowa's strong history of supporting ALL Iowans. Extremism is not at all what our state should be about. It will not garner the respect of Iowans or the rest of the country, and it most certainly will not improve the lives of Iowans. Legislators need to get back to focusing on creating policies that benefit all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Tyler Jacobs-Lewis [-]
CON
Our state has a brain drain problem but it will soon grow to a people drain problem with these actions. Our workforce is aging and not growing. Our rural communities are getting smaller. We need young people to take up the mantle in multiple Iowa industries and professions. However, who will take over if the states loses graduates and working age people when they dont come or leave because they dont want to live in the same communities as their GOP officials who actively show distaste for them with their words, actions, and the law. Simply put: hatred of multiculturalism, diversity, and women will lead to economic collapse in this state. The GOP thinks hate doesnt have a cost and they can continue to legislate hate for political points endlessly. Well the billions of income that young people, BIPOC people, women, and LGBTQIA+ people currently hold will be the cost when its simply withheld because our state no longer represents the slogan: Iowa Nice Catering to some and not all will be felt. When we have less nurses, therapists, doctors to take care of us. And no one will come to help because no one felt welcomed here. Dont pass this bill and find your roots in equality again. Thats the real Iowa and youll be rewarded for it.
02-25-2025
Susan Kosche Vallem []
CON
Please vote NO on this egregious and discriminatory bill. Protect the rights of ALL Iowa citizens. As a Cisgender female, I am at greater risk from regular males, than I have ever been from trans males or females.
02-25-2025
Amy Tagliareni []
CON
I am writing to urge you to reject HSB242, a bill that would strip away fundamental protections for transgender Iowans while complicating matters for many others who do not fit within its restrictive definitions.All hardworking Iowans, including transgender individuals, deserve to be treated with fairness and equality under the law. Everyone should have the opportunity to earn a living and support themselves and their families. When someone faces discrimination in basic aspects of life, such as renting an apartment or obtaining a credit card simply because of who they are, it creates an unfair barrier to competition and opportunity. Antidiscrimination protections are crucial for a meritbased system that allows all individuals to access opportunities without fear of bias.Additionally, this bill risks undermining protections against sex stereotyping for nontransgender women, protections which are not covered by Iowas current sex discrimination statute.Some supporters of this bill argue that it protects women in bathrooms, but this claim is based on fear and misinformation, not evidence. Transgender individuals, including transgender women, do not pose a threat in public bathrooms. The real issue is ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender identity, can access facilities safely and without discrimination. This bill does not address any real public safety concern, but instead targets vulnerable populations and could lead to harassment or exclusion.Another argument made is that we already have protections under the law. While Iowa has some protections, they are limited and inconsistent. This bill would remove important safeguards, leaving transgender Iowans vulnerable to discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. If protections are already in place, why is there a push to strip them away? This bill weakens existing protections instead of strengthening them.The bill is framed as a way to protect girls in sports, but this argument oversimplifies the issue by assuming that transgender girls have an unfair advantage in athletic competitions. The question of transgender athletes in sports is complex and requires further conversation with all stakeholders at the table. Decisions about inclusion should be grounded in science and thoughtful dialogue, not in sweeping changes that may exclude or stigmatize transgender youth. Finally, supporters claim that transgender protections give rights to one group at the expense of another (women). This argument rests on the false premise that rights for one group must come at the expense of another. The rights of transgender individuals do not diminish the rights of women. Protecting transgender people from discrimination ensures that everyone, including women, can live with dignity and respect. The idea that protecting one groups rights harms another suggests that womens rights are fragile and can only be upheld by excluding others, which is not true. Promoting equality for transgender individuals strengthens our commitment to fairness and equality for all, including women.Transgender Iowans are our friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. They deserve to live free from discrimination, just like everyone else. I urge you to vote against HSB242.
02-25-2025
Brooke Pierce [self]
CON
I cannot overstate how disappointed I am that Iowa's public servants have chosen to spend their energy on taking away rights from the people that they are supposed to serve. I am asking that you reject this bill and thus act to PROTECT trans and nonbinary Iowans, as well as other Iowans who do not fall into the bill's narrow definition of gender.All Iowans, regardless of gender identity, should be regarded as equal by the state. This bill would mean that certain individuals may not be able to obtain housing, make a living, or even get something as basic as applying for a credit card, simply because of who they are. The Iowa Civil Rights act as is affords ALL Americans the opportunity to thrive in this country. Who someone is or how they are perceived by strangers should not alter this fundamental right.Trans Iowans are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to make a living or being served by those like YOU who are supposed to protect Iowans, these individuals should not be discriminated against. Vote against HSB242. Thank you for your time.
02-25-2025
Debbie Horch []
CON
The bill that you are voting on is hate discrimination driven instead of constitutionally driven. We are supposed to be created equal, what you are proposing is just wrong. You are to represent all of us. Not just a chosen few. Shame on you. I don't know how you sleep at night, knowing the atrocities you are placing on the very people who put you into office. This is wrong on so many levels...
02-25-2025
Katie Roche [Citizen]
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Dear Subcommittee Members,Help or Harm? That is the fundamental question we must ask when considering Senate File 418. Does this bill help Iowans by simplifying legal definitions and ensuring fairness, or does it harm Iowans by creating unnecessary government restrictions, increasing bureaucracy, and interfering with personal and business decisions?The role of legislation is to solve problems, reduce government overreach, and support economic and personal freedom. Before moving forward with SF 418, I encourage careful consideration of how this bill helps Iowans and where it may create unintended consequences.How SF 418 May Help Iowans:1.Standardized Definitions in Law:The bill establishes clear statutory definitions of sex and gender, which some may argue reduce legal ambiguity and ensure consistency across Iowa law.2.Privacy & Safety Considerations:SF 418 maintains sexbased distinctions in public facilities like restrooms, shelters, and locker rooms, reinforcing the idea that separate accommodations do not mean unequal treatment.3.Simplified Data Collection:Public agencies would be required to categorize individuals strictly as male or female, ensuring uniformity in reporting for public health, crime statistics, and economic data.How SF 418 May Harm Iowans:1.Government Overreach & Bureaucratic Burdens:This bill mandates how Iowans must be recorded on official documents, potentially limiting individual freedoms and creating unnecessary legal conflicts for those who already have updated documents.Individuals who have previously updated their birth certificates, driver's licenses, or other state documents may now face legal confusion, costly corrections, and additional government red tape.2.Legal & Economic Consequences:Potential legal conflicts with federal law could lead to lawsuits against the state, costing taxpayers money in litigation.Businesses looking to expand in Iowa may reconsider investment if state policies increase legal liabilities or restrict hiring flexibility.Other states that have passed similar laws have faced significant economic losses:North Carolinas House Bill 2 (HB2) resulted in $3.76 billion in projected economic losses, with major companies such as PayPal and Deutsche Bank canceling expansion plans. The NBA moved the 2017 AllStar Game out of Charlotte, and the NCAA relocated championship events. https://apnews.com/article/e6c7a15d2e16452c8dcbc2756fd67b44?Indianas Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) led to more than $60 million in lost convention revenue for Indianapolis alone, with a reported $250 million economic impact statewide.https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/visitindysaysrfrafalloutcostcity60m?These cases show that similar policies have led to real financial harm, affecting jobs, tourism, and economic growth.3.Increased Restrictions & Legal Risks for Schools:SF 418 creates uncertainty for teachers by restricting what topics can be discussed without clear guidelines. This could expose schools to legal challenges over common classroom discussions.A single parent complaint about an offhand classroom discussion could result in a school district being forced to defend itself in court, draining taxpayer dollars meant for education.Iowa already faces teacher shortagesadding legal risks and restrictions on classroom discussion will only drive more educators away, making it harder to fill positions and maintain quality schools.4.Unintended Impact on All Students:SF 418 assumes students will not discuss identity issues among themselves, which is unrealistic. Children ask questions.Banning open, ageappropriate discussions in school doesnt mean students wont talk about these topicsit only means theyll turn to social media, peers, or unreliable sources instead of having trusted educators available for guidance.Censorship in classrooms does not stop curiosityit just limits the ability of teachers to provide factual, thoughtful responses.Schools should equip students with critical thinking skills, not restrict what topics they are allowed to engage with.5.All Iowans Could Be Vulnerable to Discrimination:By removing legal protections, this bill does not just impact one groupit leaves any Iowan vulnerable to discrimination based on assumptions or perceived identity.A person does not have to identify as transgender to be refused service, employment, or housing under this billthey only need to be perceived as different by an employer, landlord, or business owner.For example:A woman with short hair and masculine clothing could be denied service because someone assumes she does not conform to traditional gender norms.A man with long hair or soft features could be harassed at work or refused a promotion under the assumption that he does not fit a "male appearance" standard.A teenager questioning their identity could be denied school services, creating an educational barrier for a child simply trying to navigate life.Iowa has long stood against discrimination in all formsthis bill opens the door to widespread misapplication that could affect people far beyond its intended scope.Why This Matters for Iowas Schools:Teachers should not be put in the impossible position of avoiding natural student questions, fearing lawsuits over common discussions, or abandoning their ability to teach students how to think critically.Iowa schools should be focused on preparing students for the real world, not micromanaging conversations. This bill takes local control away from parents, school boards, and teachers, increasing legal risks and government overreach where it is not needed.A Call for Practical Solutions:At its core, this bill is not just about terminology, its about government control over personal and business decisions. If SF 418 is truly intended to help Iowans, we must ask: who benefits, and at what cost? If the bill creates confusion, increases legal and bureaucratic burdens, and reduces Iowas economic competitiveness, then we must ask whether the benefits outweigh the risks.Rather than advancing onesizefitsall mandates, I urge you to consider policies that prioritize individual freedoms, reduce government interference, and allow businesses, local governments, and families to make decisions that best serve their needs.Thank you for your time and your dedication to policies that promote prosperity, efficiency, and fairness for all Iowans.Sincerely,Justin ConradAmes, Iowa
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Parent]
CON
This bill is the legalization of discrimination and should not be passed.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
My name is Josh Banfield and I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HF583, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HF583.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I have a nonbinary sibling in school. Already, they have attempted suicide three times. And kids are bullying them because of it. This bill is going to make it ok for kids to continue to bully not only them, but any transgender child. My wife is transgender, and she has never been happier. She is trying to do everything she can to make our relationship work, and being able to get herself helps. And she deserves to have that right protected. These two, among many others, are Iowans. One is too young to have to deal with this. This bill will make everything harder on most Iowans mentally, emotionally and financially. This bill is going to cause a lot of blood shed, but you have the power to stop it. Please protect them and give them the rights to exist as any other Iowans.
02-25-2025
Bobbi Jo van Deusen []
CON
Stop this!Stay out of this personal business!
02-25-2025
Katherine Pierson []
CON
02-25-2025
Antharya Boindala [Self]
CON
My name is Antharya, and I am writing to urge you to reject HF583, a bill that imposes unnecessary government overreach into personal medical decisions and threatens the fundamental freedoms of Iowans.Republicans have long championed individual liberty and the right to make personal choices free from excessive government interference. HF583 undermines these principles by allowing the state to dictate personal identity and medical decisionsareas that should remain in the hands of individuals and their families, not politicians or bureaucrats.Hardworking Iowansincluding those who are transgendershould be free to live their lives without unnecessary government intrusion. This bill creates additional regulatory burdens, risks government overreach, and opens the door to more unnecessary interference in private matters. If the state can limit rights in this case, whats stopping it from expanding control over other personal freedoms in the future?Moreover, HF583 threatens free enterprise by restricting businesses from making their own hiring and service decisions. We should trust the free market, not topdown mandates, to determine the best course for Iowas businesses and workers.Government should stay out of peoples lives whenever possible. Please stand up for personal freedom, medical privacy, and limited government by voting against HF583.Sincerely,Antharya Boindala
02-25-2025
Nick Pierson []
CON
02-25-2025
Lindsey [Weis]
CON
Iowa is a state for all. To take away protections on the basis of gender identity is cruel and inhumane. If passed, Iowa will be the first state to remove civil protections for a group of people. Is this how we would like our state to be known across the country? We should be supporting our neighbors instead of building fences. Please focus your efforts on topics considered to be real issues in our state (e.g. rising cancer rates, clean water, allowing our elected state auditor to do his job by auditing the school voucher welfare for the wealthy program etc).
02-25-2025
Aaron Barker [Not applicable]
CON
I wish that I knew what was animating all of the current legislation targeting the transgender community. All I can do is read the arguments which have presented in favor of this bill. I understand that being around people who are different from you can be intimidating, and you may not know how to react. You may wish that those people were not there. Your wife or sister or daughter may say that they are uncomfortable being around someone. But to give in to that inclination, or to preemptively "defend" your loved one, is to ignore the humanity of the person that you're seeing. You can choose to let that person live their life and to use public and private services that you also use. You may feel uncomfortable doing this, and that's ok. They may be uncomfortable around you, at first. But I am confident that both you and they will survive. They will go about their lives, and you will go about yours. You may even develop a new connection that you never imagined having. None of this growing as a person, maturing as a citizen, or deepening of relationships can happen if you withdraw. And using the power of the state to force others away, shut them out, and silence them is the ultimate act of giving into your own fear and discomfort. Please reject this bill, for all of our sakes.
02-25-2025
Stanzy Hahn []
CON
I am commenting to oppose this bill. It is unnecessarily cruel that while Iowans are struggling with food insecurity, housing, and medical costs, that the priority of the state legislature is to remove protections from its own citizens. Not to give anything, not to prevent anything, but to take away. Hating a group of people you dont understand so much that you would make sweeping policies to harm them is an outrage and to even entertain this bill as an elected official is shameful. You may believe that queerness is a choice (its not), but you also have a choice will this governing body protect ALL Iowans, or will it cherry pick and exclude the most vulnerable.
02-25-2025
Tammy Coiner [NA]
CON
02-25-2025
Elizabeth Klaus []
CON
My name is Elizabeth Klaus and Im a third generation Iowan and let me tell you, I do not want to be here today doing this. I am here today as the parent of a trans child. I am personally heartbroken by the direction our state is going, and I will tell you, I feel so powerless to stop it. My family, friends, and community, regardless of their political affiliation are doing all they can to support my family and are using their voices to oppose this legislation, but I fear that our pleas are falling on deaf ears and that the people in this room who have so much power over my life and my childs future potential have hardened their hearts to families like mine.As a parent and an aunt, the greatest joy of my life has been watching the children in my life grow and become who they are. I did not become a parent anticipating that the person my child would become would be in opposition to his sex assigned at birth, but none of us can choose the child we are given to raise. That is in the hands of our creator who made my child just as he made yours. As a parent, it is hard to look at my child and to find any fault with him or who he is and it is pure hubris to think that I could change the way he sees himself in this world when by accepting the truth of who he is has helped my child thrive in all ways. If you could only meet my son you would see that he is smart, funny, and kind. That he brings so much to any community he is a part of. That he is loved and supported and perfect exactly the way that he is. He deserves the best possible future in the home he loves, as do all of Iowas children. He is not any different or less deserving of access to equal protections under state law than anyone elses child just because of the way he is. I ask all of you here today if you would accept this for the children in your lives, because I simply cannot accept it for mine.I want to remind you that you do not have to do this. You dont have to do any of this, and I am here today, as an Iowan, as a mother, to beg you for mercy for my child and for every trans child in our state, just as any loving mother would.
02-25-2025
Dawnye Sturtz []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583. I do not understand why Iowans want to remove civil liberties of others who are our coworkers, friends, and family. It is immoral and wrong.
02-25-2025
Sally Ortgies [Individual ]
CON
02-25-2025
Kat Sung []
CON
My name is Kat Sung, and I am a lifelong resident of Iowa. My family has deep roots in this statemy parents and grandparents were/are proud business owners, and I am in the process of starting my own business here to continue their legacy of Iowa entrepreneurship. I am writing today to urge you to vote NO on HF583, a bill that threatens the civil rights of many Iowans by removing gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act.Supporters of HF583 argue that this bill is necessary to protect women's rights. This is fundamentally incorrect. Sex is already a protected category under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Preserving the protected status of one vulnerable population does notand should notcome at the expense of another. This bill does not protect women; rather, it marginalizes and endangers transgender Iowans by stripping them of fundamental legal protections.The justification behind this bill echoes a dark history of past civil rights struggles. In the past, segregationists used the argument that white women felt uncomfortable sharing bathrooms with black women, much like we now hear claims that cisgender women feel uncomfortable sharing bathrooms with transgender women. The same flawed logic was once used to argue that black women should not compete in sports alongside white women, citing supposed biological advantagesjust as some now claim transgender women should be barred from womens sports. These are not new arguments; they are simply repackaged forms of discrimination.On Tuesday, Republican representatives stated that Democrats have historically been prowomen but are no longer. I counter that by saying: trans rights ARE womens rights. Protecting trans rights does not diminish protections for cisgender women; rather, it strengthens them. Trans rights advocate for policies that benefit all women, such as accommodations for those with medical differences that may cause them to look or develop outside of traditional female stereotypes. To legislate against transgender rights is to set a precedent that women must conform to narrow, outdated definitions of womanhoodor risk losing their own rights and protections.Iowa's motto declares, 'Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.' To uphold this commitment, we must reject fear and misinformation that threaten the very values of equality and justice our state seeks to protect.HF583 is a direct attack on the dignity and safety of transgender Iowans, and it sets a dangerous precedent for rolling back civil rights. I urge you to recognize the harm this bill will inflict and vote NO. Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-25-2025
Benjamin Claes []
CON
OUR LIBERTIES WE PRIZE AND OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN Iowa State MottoThere is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.Galatians 3:28 Vote No on this bill. This legislation sets a terrible precedent, not just for Iowa, but the entire country. Iowa would be first in the nation to strip civil rights protections from any group. If you are willing to do this once, you will do it again. Whos next to lose their civil rights? Jews and Muslims? Black folks? People with disabilities?This bill affects my immediate family, neighborhood, and community. This bill is discriminatory, hateful, cruel, and unIowan. It will help nobody and harm many. When I moved back to Iowa, I didnt know that a member of my family was trans. I did know, however, that trans Iowans were a protected class and I felt good about that. You dont know which of your family members will end up being trans either. These laws are in place to protect current and future generations of Iowans, including your future family members.Ive heard people defend this legislation by citing biology and their Christian faith. Id like to take a moment to remind this legislative body that biology and faith were used to deny women the right to vote. Biology and faith were used to defend the institution of American slavery. Arguments of biology and faith made the KKK feel righteous and holy in their reign of terror. Biology and faith have been used to justify oppression of the marginalized since the beginning of human history and its best we all remember that.Iowa has an exemplary record as a forward thinking state that is safe for all people. This law goes against everything Iowa stands for and it will discourage doctors, educators, and other workers from taking jobs here. Tourists will not visit if they lose rights upon crossing the state line. Our economy will suffer.I am a proud Iowan and I am horrified by the priorities of this legislative body. You are unequivocally on the wrong side of history if this bill passes
02-25-2025
Darci Johnson []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
02-25-2025
JoAnna Springsteen []
CON
What exactly does this bill accomplish? Other than taking away individual rights from Iowans. This directly conflicts with our state motto and definitely does not contribute to solving any current of future problems that the people of Iowa are facing. This is purely for show at best, and is a sign of fascism happening right here in our state. If you vote for this bill, you are a fascist. Taking away human rights is unamerican and unpatriotic. What ever happened to small government?
02-25-2025
Judy Russell []
CON
Dear Congressman. I'm sorry for those of you who haven't made the effort to understand the science behind our DNA. I'm sorry for those of you who do not respect the findings of our American Medical Assn. and American Psychological Assn. that verify transgenderism. I'm sorry that some of you won't find compromise and support ALL Iowans rights. I'm sorry that you feel legislation is necessary to control a small population in our state. I'm sorry that some of you don't hold "Love one Another" to your own thinking. I'm sorry that some of you no longer believe in our constitution and that human rights include everyone. PUT THIS ON PAUSE. Educate yourselves. DO BETTER. Lives depend on it. Meet and talk with those who identify as transgender. It may be someone you love.
02-25-2025
Laura Mach [Marion Dental]
CON
protect ALL Iowans
02-25-2025
Harold Knaack []
CON
Individual rights should not be restricted because of gender preferences.
02-25-2025
Rev. Jonathan Heifner [St Paulâ??s UMC, Cedar Rapids]
CON
I stand in firm opposition to this piece of legislation. It is in clear opposition to our motto and the kind of people we ought to be as Iowans. No one benefits when rights are removed from anyone. This legislation is unconscionable and should be voted down.
02-25-2025
PatriciaWeeks []
CON
All Iowans deserve the same basic rights. This bill is mean spirited. Iowans better than this.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
America is a country many come to for a chance at equal opportunity. It is a core belief and value that needs to be upheld. By removing basic rights and protections of trans persons, we are violating our own values.
02-25-2025
Jane Robinette []
CON
I strongly oppose HF583. I am deeply concerned for my friends and loved ones, and for all transgender Iowans. These civil rights protections have been in place in Iowa for nearly 20 years. And the other parts of this bill would simply erase gender identity and trans Iowans from Iowa law. I keep hearing an argument about "women's rights" from the most unlikely group of people. I'm pretty sure they don't support my rights. This is just another way to set one group of people against another. People like me lose nothing by protecting the civil rights of trans Iowans. Some people I know are talking about moving out of state to protect their minor and adult children (or themselves). And can you blame them? This bill would allow landlords to deny them shelter, business owners and government offices to deny them services, banks to deny them creditfor no other reason than they are transgender. This directly contradicts our state's pioneering history in civil rights and our state motto. Taking away civil rights and protections for a small targeted minority of Iowans is just mean and morally wrong. Please be brave and stand up for what you know is right. Stand for the worth and dignity of all Iowans. Stand for basic civil rights for all Iowans. Please stop HF583.
02-25-2025
Ray Simmons [Ascension Reformed Church ]
PRO
I would like to provide Biblical guidance as well as my input as a father of five girls. I can be brief.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Amy Zeigler]
CON
02-25-2025
Katherine Gisleson []
CON
I am not in favor of this bill. We should not be removing rights from people to use terms in an appropriate way for each individual.The terms sex and gender are not necessarily synonymous and scientifically, there are more than just XX and XY people. Limiting language to female/mother/girl and male/father/boy is unnecessary and there are much more important issues that our taxpayer dollars should be spent on. Gender identity is a perfectly acceptable and useful term. Leave it alone.Stop worrying about things that don't effect you and do something about the actual problems around us. We should be moving forward, rather than trying to go backwards.
02-25-2025
Daelah Fleishman []
CON
I am extremely opposed to HF 583. Rolling back the civil rights of Iowa citizens is wrong. Our priorities should be focused on bettering the health and material conditions of our communities, especially marginalized ones. HF 583 DOES NOT aid us in bettering our state, it only harms it. Our citizens, neighbors, and friends deserve better than this.
02-25-2025
Carsyn LeClere [N/A]
CON
I do NOT support this bill.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Goldfinch Counseling]
CON
As a mental health counselor, I vigorously appose this bill. Removing civil rights protections based on gender identity, causes public harm. It tells our LGBTQ+ neighbors that they are not welcome here, protected here, or safe here. In essence, it sends the message that they are less than. These are citizensthey pay tax dollars, play important roles in our communities, own businesses, have jobs, raise families etc...and this bill denies their rights. It's plainly unfair and smallminded. Maintaining their rights hurts NO ONE. Which makes it clear that this is a political stunt by the right in order to promote chaos and rally their extreme base. Also, I'm concerned that this bill greenlights hate and discrimination based on gender. Is it a coincidence that a white nationalist group proudly marched in the East Village this week as this bill is being debated in committee? I think not. Voting yes on this bill opens the door for neo nazis and white nationalist movements. Removing protections for trans people increases the likelihood of hate crimes and discrimination. The deadly blowback will be on your hands if you vote in favor of this bill. I'm pleading with you, do the right thing and do not vote in favor of this bill just to please your extreme base of supporters. That is cowardly and makes you unfit for public service. Turn your efforts toward issues that are really harming our community: suicide, hate, school shootings, domestic violence, poverty, etc.
02-25-2025
Nicole Hoag [None]
CON
ALL Iowans deserve protection and I vehemently oppose this bill. It will make the lives of an already vulnerable population much harder. This is not the direction that our state wants to go. This kind of legislation does not make this state appealing for young people. Please reject this bill!
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The civil rights of all Iowans are not up for debate. They apply equally to all people, period. The state of ones sex or gender should not exclude them from any rights granted to any other person. It has been said by members of the committee that allowing transgender folks elevates them above others. This is a malicious and hatefilled statement endorsing bigotry.Equal rights for all.
02-25-2025
EMMALY RENSHAW []
CON
HF 583 is a bill that severely restricts the fundamental rights of transgender individuals, posing a direct attack on the freedoms of the LGBTQ community. Beyond its targeted impact, it sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the rights and liberties of all Iowans. As a cisgender woman, I refuse to stand by while discrimination is written into our laws.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Gianfranco Berardi []
CON
I am the father of a transgender daughter. She is happy, smiles often, loves to dance, and makes friends everywhere she goes. These days she loves gymnastics and cheerleading. We worry about people bullying her because she is different, but the main bullies we have to worry about are the Iowa Republicans. The only times I ever see her confused or upset are when I have to break the news to her about yet another law passed by Iowa Republicans targeting her and people like her, laws with the aim of making her life harder and her future smaller. Today, people argue about basic biology, but real biologists who actually know real biology say that human life is richer than what we learned with the simplified grade level education that some people seemed to be happy to stop at. Today we know that gender identity IS separate from sex. You dont have to take my word for it. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and dozens of other organizations full of medical experts say that gender identity is real, that transgender people are real.This is basic science. This is basic reality. You cant legislate fundamental truths about who a person is just because someone else is uncomfortable with that truth.Transgender people make up a very small percentage of our population, and they are targets for harassment and threats. Trans people are more likely to be homeless, have a harder time getting jobs, and have a shorter lifespan either because of an inability to get healthcare or because of outright murder. The idea that this group has it too good, that we should have gender identity removed from the Civil Rights Act to make it easier than it already is for them to lose their livelihoods and their lives? Its shameful.In 1897, Indiana infamously tried to pass a law to establish the value of the number pi to the value of 3.2, something other than what it was. Math is math regardless of what some wrongheaded law would say. It was ridiculous then, and while it never became an actual law, it was close, and we are right to ridicule them for making the attempt.Today we're seeing attempts to pass laws to legislate LGBTQ+ people out of existence, much the same way that Indiana tried to square the circle through legislation. It can't be done, and if this law passes, it will be a lot more damaging and dangerous to our friends and family. It can be very dangerous for my transgender daughter, whose life only seems to get worse each time her biggest bullies pass one of their laws. In the 1930s, the Nazis burned books that were seen as subversive or representing ideologies opposed to Nazism. Not well known by many is that the initial target for these book burnings was the Institute of Sex Research, and many of the thousands of books burned involved research, biographies, and more, much of which was the state of the art in our understanding of sex and gender. Anyone on the right side of history looks upon these book burnings with contempt.Recently we learned, thanks to a tip off from an Iowa State student, that there was a neoNazi group grooming minors worldwide, including here in Iowa. Last week actual white supremacists marched in front of the Iowa Capitol building.Why are Iowa Republicans continuously trying to make Iowa less safe for families like mine and more safe for Nazis?
02-25-2025
Roberta Rosheim []
CON
Please do not vote to take away rights based on gender. Do not take away Trans rights. How would you feel if you are a trans man who is not allowed to use the men's restroom? I know an excellent teacher this has happened to. Please protect the rights of Trans and all people! Please listen to others who will speak opposing this bill. They deserve to have the same rights as everyone else.
02-25-2025
Heather Wachendorf [New Beginnings Christian Church]
CON
I oppose any legislation that would remove any protected group from the Iowa Bill of Rights.As a believer in God and a follower of Jesus, I implore you to consider the importance of inclusivity and respect for all individuals. The Bible serves as a guide for those who share my beliefs; it contains various forms of literature, teaches the interconnectedness of creation, but is not a scientific document. It describes past events but is not a historical record. It provides prophetic words about caring for others but does not predict the future.The Bible illustrates a narrative of God's love for all people, affirming that every person is beloved by the creator. A recurring message within it is "fear not." And Jesus repeatedly advised against judging others and emphasized loving one's neighbor.Most biblical texts are over 2,000 years old and were written to inspire and teach us about the nature of God and the principles of living harmoniously in community. I believe that those who added gender identity to the Iowa Bill of Rights understood these principles and valued every person created by God. They recognized the worth and dignity of all individuals, including those different from themselves.I urge you to uphold their commitment to protecting our neighbors and ensuring the safety of communities. Removing any protected classes would negate these protections.Please help maintain a safe environment where all can thrive. Let Iowa continue to prioritize the wellbeing of its citizens above what other states may legislate. If you consider the Bible your moral guide, let it lead you towards love of neighbor and do not be afraid.I ask you to use your authority to prevent this bill from advancing any further.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Na]
CON
It is appalling that Iowa Republicans have dragged this oncegreat state so low. We used to be top tier for public education: now we're #2 for cancer rates, and climbing. The GOP loves to complain about brain drain, but what have any of you done to keep young Iowans here, except try to limit them so much they can't leave?And now the GOP is attacking the Iowa Constitution itself. Taking control of the Supreme Court wasn't enough, you want to eliminate rights from the document that has defended those rights, ahead of most of the US, for Iowa's history. You might as well burn it, and the flag too. After all, how can you claim the state motto, when it's not OUR liberties and rights that matter to you?The GOP's Iowa: straight, white, Christian liberties you prize. Trans rights? You will erase.
02-25-2025
Thomas R. O'Donnell []
CON
Im writing to urge you to oppose HF 583, which would remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Code. As you know, Iowa added gender identity to the law in 2007, about 17 years ago. Womens sports havent crumbled, even though Trans women have been allowed to compete for more than a decade. Fears that Trans people would assault or harass women in restrooms or locker rooms havent materialized. Iowans have moved on. This bill would remove basic protections for Transgender Iowans and complicate life for others who dont fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions.Our state laws should treat everyone, including those who are Transgender, equally. We all should have the chance to live and work here. Dropping gender identity from the law means Trans people can be denied housing and credit. They can be fired from jobs or denied employment. If you believe in meritbased hiring, this should disturb you. As a kicker, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women who arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute.Let me remind you of history: The Nazis started their campaign against Jews by first revoking their civil rights. Im not saying you or anyone is a Nazi or that you intend to send Trans people to death camps. Im saying this bill uses similar tactics and will lead to discrimination and encourage persecution of a tiny percentage of the population. It also will lead to expensive, unending litigation.I urge you to oppose this bill.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Art Therapy and Counseling Studio]
CON
DO BETTER, Iowa. It is 2025. This type of legislation helps no one, and is rooted in fear, lies, and ignorance. Please choose to learn and listen differently. People all of us should be fully safe to express their/our full selves, and receive the same rights, privileges and protections in all spaces they participate in.
02-25-2025
Valerie Kemp [- Select -]
CON
Vote to protect all Iowan rights
02-25-2025
Collin Kepner []
CON
As a lifelong resident, I hold the state of Iowa and the people who live here close to my heart. I am adding a public comment today because I am deeply concerned about this bill, which would strip my fellow Iowans (specifically transgender Iowans) of their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in the state of Iowa by removing gender identity as a protected class. This bill would give Iowa the dishonorable distinction of being the first state to remove a protected class from its civil rights act. For a bit of context: In 2007, Iowa passed a forward thinking addendum to the Iowa Civil Rights Act that added discrimination protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodations, credit, and education. The passage of this addendum marked an addition to a long and storied history of Iowa leading the charge in civil rights, from having the first public university to admit men and women on an equal basis, to outlawing segregation in education 96 years before Brown v. Board of Education, to eventually leading the fight for marriage equality. Given this history, it is most worrisome that this bill is slated to receive support by Iowa Republicans this year. I chose to stay in Iowa upon my graduation from the University of Iowa in 2022 because I believe in its potential, but bills like this one make me deeply question that decision. Iowa Republicans should be focused on things like making housing affordable, fostering strong schools, improving healthcare access in rural areas, and protecting our waterways from pollution not stripping the good people of Iowa of rights they were granted nearly 20 years ago. From what I understand listening to Representative Holt's comments in committee, there are concerns about the law's compatibility with previously passed bills regarding topics like the participation of transgender women in women's sports. If that is the reason for this bill, instead of voting to broadly repeal the rights of transgender Iowans across a number of unrelated categories like housing, credit, and employment, I would encourage House Republicans to instead carve out narrow exceptions to the protections in the Iowa Civil Rights Act that address these specific issues. I implore those in power to tell me exactly why it is a policy goal of Iowa Republicans that transgender Iowans should be unprotected from discrimination in these other vital areas of everyday life solely because of concerns about incredibly specific situations that can be addressed separately. Therefore, I strongly urge a 'No' vote on this bill. This bill is a terrible look for Iowa, and it isn't going to make a single person's life better in the state (while actively making some people's lives considerably worse). Look no further than our state motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." Make no mistake: history will remember the names of those who voted to take those rights away. Thank you for your consideration.
02-25-2025
Larry Hedlund []
CON
I would encourage everyone to push back against HF 583 which is trying to remove civil rights protections for trans folks in iowa. If this passes Iowa would be the first state to do this, Iowa is better than that!Everyone deserves equal rights regardless of anyones opinion of them, their beliefs or lifestyle.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Self Employed]
CON
Hi!I recently moved to Iowa and STRONGLY oppose this bill. In fact, to me it's lunacy that anyone has even spent the time to work on it.If passed, this gives people who desire to discriminate the ability to do so in areas of housing, credit practices, education, employment, and public accommodations.Black, brown, trans, and the LGBTQ+ need more resources in a state like Iowa...not more suppression.And anything like this is a threat to civil rights and justice anywhere in this country.I URGE anyone voting to think about the humans that could be affected by this and as a new resident in this state I can think of nothing more important to me as a voter than the basic human rights that could be denied by a bill like this.Thank you for the chance to share my thoughts!Mike
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
All citizens deserve equal rights and freedom from discrimination
02-25-2025
Jayne Smith []
CON
I don't understand why y'all are consistently busy with private family matters when you are public servants. We need clean lakes to take our grandkids too in the summer. We need affordable housing, higher education, and food. We don't need you to protect us from things we don't need protection from. People have the right to just live how they want and not everyone has to have an opinion about it. It doesn't hurt me if the neighbor kid wants to wear girls clothing and go by "they." It does hurt me that Iowa has some of the worst cancer rates in the country. Can y'all just mind your personal business and let everyone mind theirs and be PUBLIC servants??? Work on infrastructure and helping people instead of getting in their business. It's weird.
02-25-2025
Sule Craig [Constituent ]
PRO
Supporting the marginalized.
02-25-2025
Deb Young [Citizen]
CON
This is a horrifying bill and should not be passed. Every Iowan deserves equal rights and protections under the law.
02-25-2025
Kellie Murtle [n/a]
CON
I oppose this bill. We should be protecting our transgender community.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I vehemently oppose HF543. It is cruel and inhumane to take away a persons civil rights. As representatives you took an oath to protect all people. It is not the place of government to dictate such a draconian message to take away a certain group of peoples rights. Be better than this.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this horrific bill because it would remove civil rights protections for transgender people. We should enhance rather thane eliminate rights.
02-25-2025
Stephanie Gronowski [None]
CON
I strongly oppose any efforts to strip rights from a protected class of people. Our Iowa motto is Freedom to Flourish. That motto should apply to all Iowans. Let our transgender neighbors live their lives without fear of discrimination. Please do not pass this bill.
02-25-2025
Martin Lemke []
CON
It is wrong to pass laws that take away civil rights from Transgender people. Transgender people deserve to have the same rights as every other citizen. Vote NO
02-25-2025
Sheryl Jensen []
CON
This bill will remove essential protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgenderdeserve fair and equal treatment under the law. This bill jeopardizes access to basic opportunities like housing and employment.Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against.
02-25-2025
Mary Williamson [Self]
CON
As the parent of a transgender Iowan, it makes me want to pack up and leave the state that this is even being considered. For 25 years I have always told my son to live his truth and now there's all of this hate and legislation telling him otherwise. Without direct acknowledgement we have no idea who is or isn't transgender, you could be striping the rights away from your neighbors, friends, doctors, etc. The thought of my son losing a job, not being able to find housing, or fearing discrimination in everyday life just because someone might think he is different goes against everything we were once taught about the American dream and treating others how you want to be treated. I urge lawmakers to consider how they would feel if it was their loved one being treated as less than simply for being brave enough to be their true self. I worry for every trans Iowan that will be hurt or feel isolated by this legislation. You work for taxpayers, which includes everyone regardless of age, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, or disability.
02-25-2025
Joshua Yeager []
PRO
I support this bill. I'm a proud American and a proud Iowan. As I understand it, this bill dies not actually strip anyone of their civil rights, it only serves to clarify things with factual and scientifically probably conclusions. Sex and gender are synonymous. They should be reflected as such in law. Thank you
02-25-2025
Brian Bruening []
CON
Transgender people just want to live their lives in safety. With every additional bill the legislature has passed over the last few years, it becomes more and more obvious that transgender and gendernonconforming individuals are the victims of a concerted attack and need the protections of the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Removing them is cruel and malicious and would be a shameful stain on our state.
02-25-2025
Shawn Bainbridge [Iowans unafraid ]
CON
This bill scares the hell out of me. As a cisgendered white female iowan, this bill is terrifying. It terrifies me for my transgendered friends. Keep transgendered people's civil rights is not merely a legal obligation it is morally imperative.
02-25-2025
Amanda Littrel [Iowa Voices -Pathfinder Initiative]
CON
I oppose this bill because this is such hatred in this bill. Last year in an election year the Republicans voted against this bill knowing that if they did, they might lose their job. This year they feel their jobs are secure. I say wait until the next election and see what happens if you don't vote NO on this bill.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
We have been down the road of "separate but equal" as Iowans and Americans in the past. This is an old myth being reused again. HF 583 is the legislation of real discrimination packaged in old myths to make it sound more palatable. There was a time that I was proud to live in a state that expanded rights for all citizens. Please don't turn your backs on Iowans, ALL Iowans. Do not legislate hatred and discrimination. Vote NO on HF 583
02-25-2025
David J Jennings []
CON
This bill is a direct attack on the rights and dignity of transgender Iowans. By redefining "sex" in rigid, outdated terms and removing gender identity as a protected class, it strips away crucial civil rights protections, making discrimination in employment, housing, and education legally permissible. Additionally, erasing gender identity from school curricula silences essential conversations about identity and inclusion, harming students who need support the most. This legislation does nothing to address real issues facing Iowans and instead promotes exclusion and division. It is a step backward for equality, fairness, and basic human rights.
02-25-2025
Gretchen Graff [private citizen]
CON
There are more than 3 million people in Iowa. Trans people in Iowa number approximately 1700. HF 242 seeks to take away the civil rights of these 1700 people.Why? What is the reason for this cruel heartlessness? What are you afraid of?What does society gain if a trans person cannot get a bank account, a credit card, eat at a restaurant, go to the bathroom, rent a place to live, get a mortgage, and do any other things that will be prevented by this bill?Once you are finished persecuting these people, what group will you persecute next?
02-25-2025
Kayla Ferris []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. Removing protections for a minority group does not make life safer or better for anyone. Antidiscrimination laws protect the vulnerable members of our community and insure everyone has a level meritbased playing field. Everyone deserves equal protection under the law. Your constituents made it clear on Monday that we do not want this. Iowa was built on the motto "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." If this were to pass, this would make Iowa the first state in the country to remove a protected group from its state civil rights act. This is antithetical to the values Iowa was built on and is antithetical to the will of the Iowa people. This bill cannot be allowed to pass.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [n/A]
CON
This is not about trans athlete. That has already been addressed separately. This is about denying trans people rights to housing, jobs and a decent safe life.
02-25-2025
Linda McGuire [none]
CON
The government should not be in the business of TAKING AWAY legal protection from DISCRIMINATION based on who a person is. People who conform neither as male nor female have been been able to rely on the law to keep their jobs, housing, schooling. So now, presumably,an employer could fire a person who identifies as transsexual who is otherwise a fine employee; for example, if coworkers taunt the person, an employer may think it easier to fire than to corral the disruptive coworkers. The targeting by government of these vulnerable individualsincluding minorsalso ENCOURAGES DISCRIMINATION, even VIOLENCE, BY private individuals. Taking away one group's rights risks others' rights' erosion and erasure of individual identity. Currently we may answer on applications, etc. to choose one race, or "mixed" or "I'd rather not say" on an application. Might the legislature decide to require citizens to be more binary RACIALLY speaking?
02-25-2025
Abby Sohn []
CON
Transgender individuals deserve the same basic human rights and protections as all other individuals in Iowa. Just because people will not take the time to learn and understand the difference between sex and gender does not mean there is not a difference. As someone that identifies as a female (sex) and woman (gender), I have no problem with trans women sharing my spaces and having the same rights that I am afforded in Iowa as part of my civil rights.
02-25-2025
Carol Daly [- Select -]
CON
02-25-2025
JoAnn Uhlenhake []
CON
I am asking that you vote no on this bill. Every human being should be granted the right for protection. By excluding one group of people would set a precedent of creating an exclusive and elitist society. This frightens me.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please stop wasting time, energy, and taxpayer dollars with this culture war nonsense and do something that actually HELPS Iowans. Enough already.
02-25-2025
Melanie Distler []
CON
Trans rights are human rights! My son and the rest of our Iowans that dont fit your standards, deserve to have the same rights as the rest of us! Its horrific that we have to even have this debate. Its a no for me.
02-25-2025
Jon Krieg []
CON
I am opposed to this bill. As Iowa's motto says, "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." The state should never be in the business of taking away people's rights.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-25-2025
Leah Frink []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Transgender individuals are simply people who want to live out their lives authentically, and have others acknowledge their right to exist. My youngest is transgender, and went through a long process of growth and coming to understand himself. After transitioning, he is a confident, intelligent, contributing citizen who is living in Connecticut, instead of home in Iowa, where his gifts and abilities are needed. Iowa has become a place where he cannot even use a public restroom without breaking the law. If he went into the restroom that conforms to his "sex at birth," with his balding head and beard, it would certainly cause distress. Gender is a complex issue, and cannot be simply defined as sex, in a binary way. There is good evidence that people like my son can be born with physical characteristics that do not match the characteristic of their brain. Whatever the reason people are transgender, they are a tiny minority which is often gravely misunderstood, and is all too often attacked. To remove existing protections against discrimination is to leave people like my son even more vulnerable to violence. Transgender Iowans only want to live their lives. There are no substantiated reports of any transgender person attacking anyone in an Iowa restroom. This is a nonissue. To deny them the right to a birth certificate that correctly identifies who they are is simply a cruelty that perpetuates and encourages discrimination. Why are our legislators so worried about a group that is less than one percent of all Americans, and are generally law abiding citizens? Why not focus on bringing jobs to Iowa, or improving our crumbling infrastructure? Why focus on perpetuating hatred and misunderstanding? This is not the Iowa I want to live in.
02-25-2025
Cindy Ann Wiemold []
CON
I urge our elected representatives to vote No on this bill. Stripping away civil rights is NOT who Iowans are. We all stand together or we all fall together. Once rights are taken away from one group, what's to stop them from being taken away from others? And I would like to know what Trans people have ever done to warrant this. I think its just an easy group for those in power to pick on, to divide the rest of us. Get back to the real problems of this state: filthy water, high cancer rates, tax payer dollars going to fund religious education for rich people's kids. Is picking on trans people really the best Iowans can do?
02-25-2025
Krista McCalley [Representative for Jackie Hammers-Crowell]
CON
I oppose this bill. Iowa is moving in the wrong direction and by removing a protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, we are opening the door for others to be removed, also. We have a diminishing population, and will continue to see a decline when we show that people are not welcome here. We have so many other things we should be focusing on, things that affect all Iowans. These divisive bills set forth an agenda of hate. Do not vote yes for this bill. Think of your neighbor, and above all else, think about how this personally affects a community that has does nothing wrong except ask to be treated equally.
02-25-2025
Suzette Astley [None]
CON
My niece will be very adversely affected by this proposed change in the civil rights act. Just because of how she dresses and presents herself she may not be able to get a job that fits her skills, housing, or credit. How does this fit with our state motto "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain?" Do not reduce the rights that Iowans have to live their lives free of discrimination.Also, do not pass a bill that enshrines ideas about sex and gender inconsistent with a modern understandings. Biological sex is NOT always clear at birth and gender identity is another matter. The proposed law would enshrine ignorance about these matters. Iowa and Iowans deserve better.Do not take away rights from Iowans most likely to encounter violence and discrimination. My niece is depending on YOU to allow her a full life.
02-25-2025
Mikayla Rolfes [Self]
CON
This bill is purely discrimination. There have been zero instances of transgender people abusing or harming cisgender people in public spaces. Have Iowas republican politicians spent any real time with transgender people in order to understand them? Or are they following the fear and loathsome mandate of their orange master? The current Iowa political majority has yet to show us that they give a care for The People. The People will remember all of this at the next election.
02-25-2025
Merric Bower []
CON
HF 583 is unconstitutional, at both the federal and state level: "Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal" is a clause with horrific undertones. The doublenegative seems to attempt to hide the intent of "separate but equal," which would violate the federal precedent from Brown v. Board of Education (1954) where the US Supreme Court ruled that "separate but equal" accommodations violate the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution. (Brown v. Board of Education) The 14th Amendment grants all citizens equal protection under the law. The Iowa Constitution, Article 1 Section 6 declares that "General Assembly shall not grant to any citizen, or class of citizens, privileges or immunities, which, upon the same terms shall not equally belong to all citizens" aalso granting citizens equality under the law at the state level. Removing a group of people from civil rights protections sets a terrible precedent. What protected class will be next to be removed? Even if it is not the intent of this legislature to remove anyone else's civil rights, it paves the way for future legislatures to do so. HF 583 deprives Iowans of the right to Pursuit of Happiness: Trans people are just trying to live our lives, and improve our quality of life. What ever happened to the unalienable rights of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness as outlined in Article 1, Section 1 of the Iowa Constitution? My pursuit of happiness has involved Hormone Replacement Therapy and Gender Affirming Surgery. And I, my family, my doctor, my therapist, my friends, and my colleagues could all tell you about my improved mental health and overall happiness. Not telling children about trans people does not prevent children from being trans, it prevents them from having the language and understanding of their experience of the world. I knew I was different from other children, and other girls, as a child in the 90s and early 2000s, but I couldn't figure out why. I always insisted on being male through play and creativity as much as I could, and returning to the "reality" that I "was a girl" was painful and distressing. I had no knowledge of trans people, but I knew innately anyways that something was off. Only later as an adult did I discover that trans people existed. The minute I read about trans men, a lightbulb went off in my head. The experience these trans men were describing was the same thing that I was feeling, and had been feeling all my life. I couldn't name it until I knew the words, but it had been there the whole time. Nothing changed except the language I used and the understanding that there were more people like me. We don't want to turn cisgender children trans, we want transgender children to know they are not alone. The 2022 Trans Survey, a census of trans people in the US, shows that 94% of trans people are happier and have a higher quality of life since transitioning. These two studies by the NIH show that Transgender people are significantly happier after transitioning (Happiness and Mental Health in PreOperative and PostOperative Transsexual People), and that the regret rate for gender affirming surgery is 1% at most (Regret after Genderaffirmation Surgery: A Systematic Review and Metaanalysis of Prevalence).A 99% success rate, or even a 94% success rate is a miracle in medical standards. Knee replacement surgery has anywhere from a 6%30% regret rate (Patients experiences of discontentment one year after total knee arthroplasty a qualitative study )HF 583's gender segregation would not succeed : Lawmakers say that they want to keep "men" out of women's restrooms, but this bill would force men like me into women's spaces. I have a beard and, with my clothing and mastectomies, a masculine appearance. In instances where I have used a women's bathroom or changing room, I have seen the discomfort of women around me, and have been asked to leave the facility. And I completely understand, I do not want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. I know that I have no ill intent, but I want to respect people's comfort. This bill, if it becomes law, would require me and other trans men like me to use the women's facilities, and cause distress to women around us. HF 583 hurts trans people who are people just like anyone else I am a hardworking Iowan, I am a state employee at the University of Iowa, I pay taxes, I am involved in my local community, I volunteer with local nonprofits. I am an artist, a loving husband, a birding enthusiast, a cat lover, a fan of Iowa's women's basketball. I am also transgender. I deserve the same human rights and civil rights under the law as any other Iowan. Please stay in good faith with your constituents, and stay true to our Iowan values. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Maintain our rights and prize our liberties
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a proud Iowan, I believe in the fundamental American values of freedom, fairness, and limited government overreach. Our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainreflects the belief that all Iowans should have the opportunity to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference.Thats why I have serious concerns about HF 583. This bill would create new government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has long been a leader in civil rights, and we should be ensuring that our laws protect personal freedom, not restrict it.Furthermore, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it could have unintended consequences. It may encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.I urge you to oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas legacy as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-25-2025
Amber Rossow []
CON
02-25-2025
Laura McClure-Fleck [MFS PAYROLL LLC]
CON
It is antithetical to democratic values to strip a group of people of civil rights protections for any reason. Whether you believe that gender identity can be separate from physiological gender or not is beside the point. No group of people should be allowed to suffer arbitrary discrimination without redress. Being human is not predicated on picking a binary gender, and civil rights should also not be predicated on binary gender. It costs nothing but courtesy to respect others.
02-25-2025
Jude Cigrand [self]
CON
I am requesting time to speak against this bill.I am transgendeer, native of Iowa, tax paying citizen. This is an extremely harmful bill, let me tell you why.
02-25-2025
Amy Crowl-Kinney [Amy Crowl-Kinney Psychotherapy LLC]
CON
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Iowa and have been in practice for 30 years. Many of my clients are part of the LGBTQ community and it is my professional opinion that this bill would do lasting damage to not just the LGBTQ community but to all Iowans as it would increase violence and hate. I have lived in Iowa all of my 57 years. Growing up, I was so proud to be an Iowan bc its citizens were progressive and cared. I am now brokenhearted as all I see with this bill is legislators who's values lean towards hate and bigotry. Iowa will be the first state in US history to walk back civil rights, a dangerous and scary precedent. You can restore the core values of inclusion and care in Iowa by voting against HF583!
02-25-2025
Xavier Jiacinto []
CON
All my life I've lived in Iowa, and I learned about how our state led the way in the United States towards the abolition of slavery, the end of segregation, allowing gay marriage, and good education.But apparently those that put forth and support this bill disagree with our state's history. They disagree with progress, kindness, and equal rights for all. How can I, as an Iowan, feel nothing but shame knowing that our state will be known in the history books as the first state to remove rights and protections from their own citizens.Our state motto is "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain". This bill goes against everything our state stands for.
02-25-2025
Sara May Bellizzi []
CON
Hello, I am a cishet woman and I live with my partner and our two teenage children. I have been a resident of Iowa for nearly 13 years. I am saddened and angry at the idea that Iowa wants to take away anyones civil rights. Our trans friends and neighbors deserve the same rights and protections that everyone else in Iowa receives. Teaching gender identity is incredibly important as a parent of teenagers who were taught about it as they grew up, it helped shape them to be more empathetic, understanding people.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
I support the premise of this bill and feel it will remove confusion about rights not related to factual constructs
02-25-2025
Erica Simbro [Self]
CON
02-25-2025
Tanya Hermann [na]
CON
Every Iowan deserves to be treated fairly without fear of discrimination. There is absolutely no reason to take away civil rights from LGBTQ+ Iowans, but there is every reason to make sure they have all of their civil rights. If you don't protect all Iowans then you're not doing your job that people elected you to do. If you consider yourself prolife, then ensuring civil rights for all LGBTQ+ is being prolife. Vote NO on this bill and do the right thing to protect all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities based on statutory designations. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. Even the proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population. This bill and what it seeks to achieve will result in alienating a strong population of young Iowans who will make you pay for it at the polls sooner than you think.
02-25-2025
Kurt D. Kinney [Crowl Property Management]
CON
I need the Iowa legislature to strongly consider the harm this bill will cause. Throughout the past 60 years it has been well established through the hard work of many local, state and national citizens that the infringement of the rights on any person(s) or group based on the misguided and uneducated beliefs of the few can push our progress backward to place of hate, exclusion and division. You as legislators need to decide where you want Iowa to be when we look back. Do you want to be remembered as a person, fellow citizen and legislator who voted with the few vocal and uneducated that led with fear and ignorance or as someone who stood tall with honor and grace and the knowledge and belief that all people deserve the right to choose how they identify, who they love and know they are excepted in our communities with love and compassion. Do the right thing and vote with compassion, science, knowledge and understanding. VOTE NO on HF583!!
02-25-2025
Jennifer Covill []
CON
Regardless of your political affiliation you were elected to represent ALL Iowans in your district. Your job description does not permit you to pick and choose who is worthy of your representation. You are required to advocate in the best interest of ALL of them. Some of you appear to need clarification as to what the word "ALL" means and to whom you serve. You serve transgender Iowans the same as any other Iowan. Transgender Iowans are people who deserve all civil rights available to any other person in our state. Do NOT take away the rights of your fellow Iowan. Vote NO!
02-25-2025
TRACA MADREN []
CON
Iowa is concerned about losing young people yet you are looking to alienate many human beings. Last I checked the Constitution writer said Pursuit of Happiness and the Christian faith believes in treating others how you want to be treated. Is this how you are proposing to do those ideals? I am truly confused how you can look at anyone and see a difference between gay, white, native, black, trans, woman, man and demand for a move backwards to ending civil rights.
02-25-2025
Maranda Case [None]
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
As a proud Iowan, I believe in the fundamental American values of freedom, fairness, and limited government overreach. Our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainreflects the belief that all Iowans should have the opportunity to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference. Our government should look for ways to enhance and EXTEND freedoms, not restrict it.Thats why I outraged about HF 583. This bill would create MORE government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has long been a leader in civil rights, and we should be ensuring that our laws protect personal freedom, not restrict it.Also, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it clearly has a political agenda. It will encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.Please oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas reputation, and future, as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.Amy Freiburger Mother, Daughter, Wife, Lifelong Iowan
02-25-2025
Marcy Seavey []
CON
This law is contrary to science and a decent society. The proposed law selfidentifies it's own flaw by stating that gender shall mean 'sex' rather than 'gender identity', it validates that gender identity does exist. It should be every Iowan's 1st amendment right to state their own truth without fear that our own government will harm them or allow others to harm them for it. Shame on those who wrote this hateful proposal. This law even breaks the rules of leaving a public comment! If "Comments go into a queue for review to make sure no profane or hateful comments are posted." then certainly laws which are hateful should not be enacted.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Stop taking rights away and attacking a vulnerable population!
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I am not LGBTQ but many people that I love are. There is absolutely no reason they should have any rights taken away or to be targeted just for not being cis
02-25-2025
Vanessa P. [Resident]
CON
This bill will kill thousands of Iowan lives. Vote no. Trans rights are human rights.
02-25-2025
Chelsea Jansen []
CON
While HF583 claims to protect women, it risks unintended consequences, potentially subjecting women and girls to invasive scrutiny and harassment based on appearances. Government should protect individual rights, not police personal identity.Iowan values strongly believe in freedom, fairness, and limited government. This bill creates new government mandates that could lead to discrimination, prioritizing personal characteristics over merit. Iowa has long championed civil rights, and we should protect personal freedom, not restrict it.I urge you to oppose HF583 and uphold Iowas legacy of freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all.
02-25-2025
Mary Vermillion []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [self]
CON
Iowa legislators should protect the rights of all the citizens of Iowa and not fabricate reasons to justify removing their rights.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This horrible bill will take away people's rights!
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Stephanie Pearson []
CON
Civil rights are for every human being. Please vote no to the Civil Rights Reduction Act. It is not just and is unfair. Thank you
02-25-2025
Carol A Gronstal []
CON
According to the World Population Review there were 7,100 trans people living in Iowa in 2024. Iowas total population was 3.24 million in 2024. Our legislators are spending a lot of time and money trying to persecute trans people, one of the smallest minorities in the state.But thats the point, isnt it? Pick on a group that has a small voice and little, if any, power. Single them out and make it possible for employers to discriminate against them just because of the way their genes arranged themselves. Deny service at restaurants, professional offices, gas stations, schools, anyplace really, to people with that unchosen gene arrangement. After all, theyre different. Trans people go to work, come home, mow the lawn, and watch TV. Theyll probably water your plants when you go on vacation. Theyre just so different, arent they?My question is, how has a person, being trans, harmed any of us in any way? Why would we want to harm them? And after were done making their lives as miserable as possible, who will we pick on next?
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
HF583 "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." This includes the rights of ALL Iowans.Trans are human beings and deserve equal rights. Less than that is morally and ethically wrong.
02-25-2025
Brandy Cross []
CON
This bill continues the hurtful and unnecessary rhetoric against all people, but more so those in the LGBTQ community and specificallly transgender Iowans. These citizens should be free from discrimination and should be protected under the law. Continuing this wreckless and harmful crusade against any Iowan is wrong. All Iowans deserve to be protected and respected under the law.
02-25-2025
Berleen []
CON
It is simply not acceptable here or anywhere to take away the civil rights of a group of people as is happening with this bill. Speeding this bill through votes might indicate proponents know how unjustly they are acting.
02-25-2025
Catharine Fitzsimmons []
CON
I strongly disapprove of the changes proposed to our citizen's civil rights. The legislature has no legitimate reason to take this action. Individuals who represent that this is necessary to protect women and children are fearmongering. There is no real evidence that anyone's safety is threatened by the existing civil human rights protections. Please vote NO on this bill.
02-25-2025
Mary Kay Madsen []
CON
All Iowans should be treated equally no exceptions.
02-25-2025
Olivia Stoner []
CON
This bill is based on the opinions and beliefs of a small minded group who are not fully considering the consequences, or worse, understand how much hurt they are causing and not caring. Limiting the rights of an already marginalized group is cruel and will cause irreparable damage. They say that god only made male and female but that is untrue. Intersexed people exist. People of varying gender identities are even referenced in the Bible. Every Iowa deserves equal protection under the law. As a woman and a mother, this law does not protect me or my children. Trans women are not the people committing crimes against women and children. Cis hetero men commit the overwhelming majority of crimes against women and children. Maybe focus policy on real problems, not imagined ones. You have a chance to stand on the right side of history. our rights we will maintain. Do you believe that is what our state stands for? Please do not pass this bill.
02-25-2025
Denise O'Brien [Personal]
CON
I am against this piece of legislation. It is wrong to take away fundamental human rights from the citizens of our state.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Civil rights protections are a basic human right. Removing them is unprecedented. They are not a problem that is affecting every day Iowans. Do not let your legacy be one of hate. There is still time to kill this cruel, unnecessary legislation. We heard loud and clear from Iowans across the state and from all walks of life yesterday (educators, religious communities, healthcare providers, parents, students, legislators, and everyday working Iowans) that removing protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is unpopular and unwanted in Iowa. We do not want our state to be known for this first in the country status nor for adding separatebut equal style language to Iowa code. Please do not make our state less safe and hospitable to transgender Iowans, because we know from history that this simply makes it less safe for all.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Educator ]
CON
All citizens should have civilrights protection under the law. There should not be any questionabout this.
02-25-2025
Terrie Tomlonovic []
CON
I think this bill is so bad it is embarrassing. I refuse to say I am from Iowa. This state has gone backwards ever since Kim Reynolds came on. She is a disgrace to the human race and so are the Republicans running our state. Taking away rights for Trans is only the beginning. Next they will be coming after every class until all they have left is the white privileged. I would bet that the head of the Family Leader and even Kimmie was probably under one of those white hoods marching in downtown Des Moines this past weekend.
02-25-2025
Stacy S Volmer []
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to House File 583. This bill, which narrowly defines sex and gender, threatens the rights and dignity of many Iowans. I urge you to vote against it and protect the rights of all individuals.HF 583 erases the experiences of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals and undermines their legal protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. By defining sex as strictly male or female based on birth characteristics, the bill ignores scientific evidence that sex is not binary. Biological research confirms that variations like intersex conditions and chromosomal diversity challenge this oversimplified definition.This bill would especially harm transgender youth by limiting recognition and support in schools, increasing their risk of anxiety, depression, and suicide. It would also enable discriminatory practices under the guise of "separate accommodations," a stance repeatedly struck down by federal courts as unconstitutional.Additionally, the bill's changes to birth certificates ignore the realities of intersex individuals and those who undergo gender transition, causing unnecessary hardship. The bill also weakens employment and public accommodation protections, allowing religious institutions to discriminate based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.Restricting how gender is recognized also undermines public health and research by limiting the collection of accurate data. This bill does not reflect Iowa's values of fairness and equality.I urge you to oppose HF 538 and instead support policies that foster inclusion and protect the wellbeing of all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Aaron Weinberg []
CON
Please vote no on this action. This activity will create a greater harm than any perceived good that could possibly come out of it. I am stunned that the legislature of Iowa considers this a valuable use of time and resources.
02-25-2025
Teal Wolgamott-Wing []
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Iowa Senate File 418. This bill presents significant concerns regarding human rights, discrimination, and the promotion of hate and oppression, while also contradicting the values expressed in Iowas state code and motto, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.1. Violation of Human Rights:SF 418 undermines the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals by enforcing a narrow, biologically based definition of sex and gender. This restrictive approach disregards established medical and psychological understandings of gender identity, denying individuals the right to selfidentify and live authentically. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the right to equality and freedom from discrimination, rights that this bill infringes upon.2. Open to Discrimination:By removing gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, the bill creates a pathway for discrimination in employment, education, housing, and public accommodations. This exclusion leaves transgender and nonbinary individuals vulnerable to unfair treatment without legal recourse. It undermines the progress Iowa has made toward ensuring equality for all citizens.3. Promotion of Hate and Oppression:The bills language not only invalidates the identities of marginalized communities but also emboldens those who seek to marginalize and oppress. By codifying exclusionary definitions, SF 418 fosters an environment where prejudice can thrive, contradicting the inclusive spirit that should define our schools, workplaces, and public spaces.4. Contradiction of Iowa Code and Motto:The Iowa Civil Rights Act was designed to protect all citizens from discrimination, ensuring that every individual can participate fully in society. By stripping protections from genderdiverse individuals, SF 418 violates the intent of the states civil rights framework. Furthermore, the bill stands in direct opposition to Iowas proud motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Liberty and rights cannot be selectively applied; they must extend to all Iowans, regardless of gender identity.In conclusion, SF 418 is not only a step backward for civil rights in Iowa but also a direct affront to the values of equality and dignity that our state and nation hold dear. I urge legislators to reject this harmful bill and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, understanding, and respect for all citizens.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Wolgamott-Wing]
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Iowa Senate File 418. This bill presents significant concerns regarding human rights, discrimination, and the promotion of hate and oppression, while also contradicting the values expressed in Iowas state code and motto, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.1. Violation of Human Rights:SF 418 undermines the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals by enforcing a narrow, biologically based definition of sex and gender. This restrictive approach disregards established medical and psychological understandings of gender identity, denying individuals the right to selfidentify and live authentically. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the right to equality and freedom from discrimination, rights that this bill infringes upon.2. Open to Discrimination:By removing gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, the bill creates a pathway for discrimination in employment, education, housing, and public accommodations. This exclusion leaves transgender and nonbinary individuals vulnerable to unfair treatment without legal recourse. It undermines the progress Iowa has made toward ensuring equality for all citizens.3. Promotion of Hate and Oppression:The bills language not only invalidates the identities of marginalized communities but also emboldens those who seek to marginalize and oppress. By codifying exclusionary definitions, SF 418 fosters an environment where prejudice can thrive, contradicting the inclusive spirit that should define our schools, workplaces, and public spaces.4. Contradiction of Iowa Code and Motto:The Iowa Civil Rights Act was designed to protect all citizens from discrimination, ensuring that every individual can participate fully in society. By stripping protections from genderdiverse individuals, SF 418 violates the intent of the states civil rights framework. Furthermore, the bill stands in direct opposition to Iowas proud motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Liberty and rights cannot be selectively applied; they must extend to all Iowans, regardless of gender identity.In conclusion, SF 418 is not only a step backward for civil rights in Iowa but also a direct affront to the values of equality and dignity that our state and nation hold dear. I urge legislators to reject this harmful bill and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, understanding, and respect for all citizens.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is a disgusting and disgraceful step back for Iowa. We used to be a state that led the way for civil rights. Now our government is trying to write into law legislation that will lead to repression, harm, and in worse cases death for gender nonconforming and trans people. I have never been more ashamed to be an Iowan!!
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote con to this bill!!! Trans rights are human rights.if we want our state to grow and advance we need to be welcoming to ALL, not just the ones who look and act like us.
02-25-2025
Mason []
CON
I grew up knowing I was trans. I wasnt influenced, I wasnt forced, I didnt even know the correct term for how I was feeling. I was put through hell for 7 years of constant and vile bullying from those around me, if I could have changed the literal structure of my brain so I could live happy with my assigned sex I would have in a heartbeat. But thats not how it works and it will never work like that. These hateful and medically misinformed bills do nothing but promote that exact same bigotry, hate, and violence I went though as a child. You will be putting not only transgender individuals in danger but transgender children as well who just want to live their lives the same as everyone else.
02-25-2025
Rosemary Thierer []
CON
If you wish to shrink Iowa this bill will do it. To tell citizens that they have no civil rights is one of the saddest things that we can do. Young people who cannot understand how transgender people are bad will not want to stay in a state that hurts some of their friends. They will wonder who is next to lose their rights and look for places to live that are more welcoming. Good luck Iowa businesses trying to find young people to replace your retiring baby boomers. If you think that it is hard to find workers now just wait. Over the past two weeks I have talked with five college students who said they will be leaving the state once they have completed college. Two of them were in medical school and two others planned to go to law school. Smart people that I know we would like to keep. It is exactly bills like this that they say are making them look at other states to move to. They will take their talents there and improve that state.
02-25-2025
Elijah williams [Community]
CON
I wish to speak to the absolute disregard for rhe wellbeing of residents who reside in this state. Why in any capacity would you desire for any group of people to be subject discrimination and harm. You are wrong for this and you know that, yet you push a divisive political agenda that serves Noone but your disgusting party leaders. Who believe instead of focusing on the real problems our nation has like hate and prejudice, would rather fear monger a community that makes up less than 1% of the population. End this bill now, regain any semblance of what you're supposed to do as a public servant, listen to the people, leave our rights alone.
02-25-2025
Amanda Caraballo [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Vote no for HSB242/HF583.This bill is a mockery of Iowan values. Iowans care about one another, about our friends, our neighbors, and our community. This bill will only hurt our transgender family, friends, and neighbors by stripping away their legal protection from discrimination. Our state flag says "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain". Look at the comments about this bill! The majority of people want transgender Iowans to have the right to freely express themselves and to be a protected class in our State Civil Rights Act.This legislation is a disgrace to Iowa's history as a state that, in the past, was a leader in our nation's fight to achieve a fair and equitable society for all people.Finally, Line 26, on page 1, is very disturbing. That line reads 'The term "equal" does not mean "same" or "identical"'. The following line (27) says "Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal." I am sure we can all remember learning about the 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education. The lasting outcome from that case has been that separate is not equal. Adding this language into our state civil rights act is disgusting. Throw this whole bill away!Vote NO on HSB242/HF583!
02-25-2025
Kim Grant []
CON
I stand firmly for the values of freedom, fairness, and equalityvalues that are at the core of what it means to be American. As an Iowan, I embrace our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainwhich speaks to the fundamental belief that every individual should have the opportunity to live authentically and contribute to our communities without fear of discrimination or undue government interference.Thats why I am deeply concerned about HF 583. This bill would introduce government mandates that risk opening the door to discrimination, allowing the state to dictate who deserves opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has always been a leader in civil rights, and I want to make sure our laws continue to protect individual freedoms and not restrict them.Though this bill is being marketed as a means to protect women, it could have serious unintended consequences. It could lead to invasive and harmful policing of personal identities, placing women and girls at risk of scrutiny, harassment, and humiliation based solely on appearances. Government should never be in the business of policing identityit should be in the business of defending personal rights.I believe that every Iowan deserves to live without fear of discrimination. I urge you to oppose HF 583, and to stand with the values of freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all. Lets keep Iowa a place where everyone is free to be themselves.
02-25-2025
Molly Foster [None]
CON
02-25-2025
Victoria Barnidge []
CON
I am vehemently opposed to this bill for a multitude of reasons but first and foremost because its just plain ridiculous.Iowa has real problems and real issues that need to be addressed. These are issues of clean water, more housing, better public education, a full financial audit of the school voucher money being spent out of taxpayer dollars to fund private schools and so much more!At the heart of this bill is hatred toward a singular group of citizens of this state. This is a marginalized group that wants only to live their life and have the God given rights to not be discriminated against because of their gender identity. What the Iowa Republicans are doing to the transgender community is heinous and heartless.But this is about more than feelings, this is about the law and the stripping of a citizens rights to live in society without the fear of being persecuted or discriminated against because they are transgender. That the Iowa Republicans introduced this bill and are now looking to pass it is unconscionable and unconstitutional.Theres no greater message of hatred and loathing than to be shunned in your community because you dont look like everyone else or act like everyone else or talk like everyone else. Im ashamed to live in a state that has their priorities about people so backwards.
02-25-2025
mallory fredieu [Teacher ]
CON
do not take the rights away. this is absolutely insane and I cannot believe we are living in 2025 and this is still an issue!!! I truly fear for my friends lives every single day we will not stand with this!!!
02-25-2025
Charlie []
CON
Trans people will not be pushed to the margins again.
02-25-2025
Traci [Hennings]
CON
02-25-2025
Virginia Utsinger [None]
CON
Those who are consistently discriminated against and bullied deserve a champion. Iowa has been that champion before. We can be it again. We can draw others to our state rather than push people out. This turn Iowa has taken is embarrassing. Iowa is no longer kind to those less fortunate. I am saddened that a few mislead Christians are now leading this state. There is no longer Iowa kind. Please show that you have a heart. Please protect those who are less fortunate. Please step up and show that we can be Iowa Kind. Please vote against taking urights away from those who have so few to begin with.
02-25-2025
Heidi Bowden []
CON
I am writing with urgency and deep concern to strongly oppose HF 583. This bill is not just a policy proposalit is a direct attack on the fundamental rights and dignity of transgender and genderdiverse individuals in our state. If passed, it will not only strip away civil rights but will also contribute to real, measurable harm, including increased suicide rates, heightened fear and discrimination, and further division in our communities.Transgender and genderdiverse people already face disproportionately high rates of suicide, largely due to societal rejection, discrimination, and the relentless attack on their rights. When policies like this are introduced, they send a devastating message: that these individuals are not valued, not protected, and not deserving of the same freedoms as others. The mental health crisis among trans youth and adults is not hypotheticalit is real, it is urgent, and it is preventable.Beyond the direct harm to individuals, this bill fuels a culture of fear and hate. It emboldens those who seek to divide us, encouraging harassment, violence, and public ridicule of people who are simply trying to live as their authentic selves. Laws should protect people, not target them. They should foster inclusion, not strip away fundamental rights.All humans deserve civil rights. All humans deserve to live free from fear, discrimination, and governmentsanctioned oppression. I urge you to reject this cruel and unjust bill. Stand for dignity. Stand for human rights. Stand on the right side of history.
02-25-2025
Christine Ney []
CON
I am against Bill HF583. This bill does not allow for the fact that medical conditions can occur that must be surgically amended. Also a person should be able to have the freedom to determine their own gender assignment. It should not be up to the state.
02-25-2025
Michael West []
CON
I would ask you to consider what this bill intends to do? Who does it protect? How does it make our state a better place? Transgendered people do not pose a threat to our communities, they are not a burden on our economy or a problem that needs solving. These are people. Real human people who live in your communities, they pay their taxes and perform important jobs. To many they are friends, family, sons and daughters.The only reason you write and pass a law that would remove civil rights protections from an entire class of people is if you intend to target an entire class of people. Throughout history NEVER have we seen an act to target human rights to be on the right side of history. To pass this bill will bring shame, shame to our state, shame to you and your families, and shame in the eyes of the world.People should be allowed to feel safe in their communities without their elected representatives painting a target on their backs. Does it end here? If this passes which of the next 20 protected classes will be next. Iowans deserve your protection not your persecution!
02-25-2025
Angelica Vannatta []
CON
Removing "gender identity" from the Iowa Civil Rights Code is a solution in search of a problem. But it wouldnt solve anything; instead, it would only create barriers, harm real people, and push Iowa further behind.No one wants to move to a state that strips away basic protections. And young people are already leaving in droves. Fewer people means fewer taxpayers, teachers, healthcare workers, and community members investing in Iowas future. This isnt about solving a problemits about creating one.
02-25-2025
Renee Greenlee []
CON
Vote NO on HF 583, the transgender attack bill. I dont need to go into how damaging this bill is for trans individuals; you already know that. Removing gender identity as protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act does not serve the interests of the vast majority of your constituents, it serves a minute population who think they can dictate who can have protections in Iowa and who cannot. I assure you, there is no reason to even contemplate the merits of this bill. It will irrefutably result in discrimination and unsafe actions towards trans individuals. That fact itself should stop you in your tracks because I am sure you would not want that blood on your hands. And without doubt, if this bill passes and these hateful, unsafe situations do harm trans individuals, the blame and judgment will land on those who passed it.Thank you for stopping this bill from moving forward. Please keep these heinous bills from being reintroduced each year and wasting the precious time of Iowa legislators and constituents. Use these sessions for the good of Iowans and what you were elected for.
02-25-2025
ChristineLittle [Chapter Lead BGSD-CR]
CON
I am writing to express my deep concern about any efforts to remove protections for transgender individuals from the Iowa State Constitution. Such actions would not only strip away fundamental rights but also directly harm many of your constituents, including vulnerable youth and families who rely on these protections for safety and dignity.For example, removing trans rights could lead to legal barriers for seeking housing or employment. Without clear protections, a transgender person could be denied a job or evicted simply for being who they are, with little legal recourse. This would increase rates of homelessness, unemployment, and mental health crisesissues that already disproportionately affect transgender Iowans.I urge you to consider the reallife impact on your constituents and oppose any measures that would weaken protections for transgender individuals. Ensuring equal rights for all Iowans strengthens our communities and upholds the values of fairness and dignity.Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill dehumanizes people who just want to live their lives in peace.
02-25-2025
Roberta Gilbert []
CON
Among other things, HF 583 amends those portions of the Iowa Civil Rights Act that address public accommodations (places that offer goods or services for a fee). Under this bill, a grocery store could discriminate against a person merely because they are transgender, and the store could deny them the right to shop for food. A retail store could deny a transgender person the right to purchase clothing. A car mechanic could refuse to make a needed repair, a restaurant could refuse service, and a hotel could refuse to rent a room. The discriminatory and demeaning conduct that could be inflicted upon Iowas transgender citizens is shameful. There is no common sense in legalizing discrimination of this kind. Please vote NO on HF 583.
02-25-2025
Kaitlyn Howell []
CON
I vehemently oppose this bill. The idea that Iowa would be the first state in the union to remove a protected class from our civil rights law is despicable and humiliating. Transgender and gender diverse people deserve protection under the law. If we prize our rights the way we say we do in Iowa, how could we possibly justify taking away civil rights that have already been protected under the law? Please do not allow this outrageous bill to become law.
02-25-2025
Ann Squier-Hammond [Independant]
CON
In the Iowa constitution, article 1, section 1; all people are born free and equal. People is NOT defined as male and female. So this means ALL. Does this mean next we will waste hundreds of thousands of dollars to change every appearance of the word people in our entire state constitution to be defined as male and female as defined here? Because our state constitution gives people rights. And lets be honest, our federal constitution only says MEN!Ive heard over and over, we need this bill to protect our women and children in the bathroom. If youre needing a bathroom bill then write it. This is never what the intentions were with this bill. Dont hide behind your hypocritical rhetoric and think that free thinking Iowans havent seen what youre doing. Even your own Republican Representative, Austin Harris, said he wont stand with this bill as it clearly is stripping basic human rites. Thank you Representative Harris for standing on your morals and not on party. As an independent voter, I thank you for having the courage to publicly speak up and show fellow Iowans that there are still morals on both sides of the aisle.I keep hearing trans individuals are afforded extra rights that impede upon other peoples rights. That is false. Trans individuals are only afforded the same rights as everyone else. It is a matter of reminding people who seem to forget that you must uphold a certain moral standard. That standard is someone doesnt get to pick and choose who to acknowledge and who you cant. Thats why weve had to spell it outyou cant deny someone basic human rights based on a particular race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, or familial status. If you feel that having gender identity in the above line gives trans individuals extended privileges over another group of individuals then I guess we need to revoke all the special privileges the rest of these groups then since they are all mentioned TOGETHER, not separate. Ironic how together, and separate work. This bill stands to make trans rights equal BUT separatecurrently ALL of these classes of people are equal NOT separate. I guess that means they all have EQUAL rights.The last time this many rights were written OUT of a constitution for an entire class of individuals, we were abolishing slavery. Does that mean we should call this the moment in time where we abolish transgender? Similar to Slavery, trans people want the freedom to be themselves, to chose to embrace what is within them. Slavery was a forced imprisonment upon an unwilling partyoh waitsounds to me like maybe we have found a way to bringing back slavery but just redefine who it pertains to. Congratulations, you have managed to return us back to before 1820 when slavery was outlawed in this area of the country. To even before the inception of our state in 1846.Any party telling you who you can love, what gender you are, what states you can travel to, what books you can read, which history you can learn, what prayers you should say and what you can & cannot do with your own body, doesnt care one bit about freedom. If you think you love FREEDOM but you dont care if it applies to everyone, what you actually love is PRIVILEGE.Betty Bowers said, Christian nationalism is just white supremacy in Bible drag. I think she nailed how quite a few of us feel about how some of those in the Christian faith are behaving. Gods best friend was a prostitute. The last supper was served with thieves and liars. He forgave the men who nailed him to the cross. If we are made in his image then I guess hes a little queer himself.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-25-2025
Ann [Pelelo]
CON
Removing the protection of civil rights, human rights, for a specific group of people is a great injustice. MLK Jr. declared that an injustice to one person somewhere is an injustice to people everywhere. And, he continued, we should always fight injustice. How does removing the civil rights of transgender folk make Iowa a better place? It doesnt. It makes Iowa a worse place. Please vote no!
02-25-2025
Rick Phillips []
PRO
If there are only two biological genders, and all others imaginary, do imagined genders become real if protected by law? How can we protect what is imaginary? Do we not then validate what is delusional? Any psychiatrist or psychologist will tell a caretaker of a delusional person not to enter into their insanity. We cannot treat the mentally ill by participating with them. We cannot extricate them from their psychosis by validating what is unreal. Such is the way it is when we validate any gender other than male and female with a delusional person. We have created a subsociety of insane gender identities and give it preferential treatment over whats normal and healthy. We are not helping the mentally ill find truth by validating a lie. Lets be more compassionate and tell sick people the truth to set them free instead of prolonging their mental illness. Lets not destroy what is real for what is imaginary. Removing gender identity from the civil rights code is a quantum leap to restoring equal rights for all Iowans.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen]
CON
I am a mother and a pediatrician. This proposed bill strips away protections to fellow Iowans. I am very concerned about the serious negative impact these proposed changes will have on both my patients and neighbors in terms of both access to care and their mental health. This proposed law strips the ability of a person, even with the guidance of medical professionals, to change genders if their assigned sex at birth does not match with their sense of self; this proposal goes against selfdeterminism. Additionally, this proposed law also demands that all humans need to fit in one of two prescribed boxes of sex alone and ignores the science that sex and gender identity do not always align.
02-25-2025
Chris Martello [none]
CON
This bill is absolutely abhorrent and anyone supporting it betrays the very ideals this country was founded on.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I was born and raised in Iowa. I have lived here my entire life. I have heard countless times how "nice" Iowans are. This bill is not Iowa nice. This bill takes away the rights of a small group of people who just want to be allowed to live their lives and be happy. It is disallowing people the ability to live their truth. Iowa government is bullying these people into fitting in their box and taking away their rights. If we allow this... who is next?
02-25-2025
Anthony Allou []
CON
I ask you to reject HF583, a bill that would remove the most basic protections for transgender Iowans, in effect permitting direct discrimination against some of our societys most vulnerable citizens. All people, regardless of gender identity or any other inherent identity for that matter, should be treated fairly and equally by the laws and people of our state. Transgender members of our communities should have the same opportunity to earn a living, provide for themselves and their families and contribute to the communities in which they reside with no barriers to doing so. Said another way, this bill explicitly ensures that transgender people will suffer prejudicial discrimination. No matter how hard working, or how great their desire to be contributing members of their community, this bill ensures they will be denied this basic liberty. This bill restricts peoples freedom to pursue their own liberty and happiness by giving other members of the community an unfair and injudicious weapon to wield against them. It is unfortunate that we still experience this level of prejudice in a 21st century society, and that is why these protections were enshrined in law by previous legislators. Merit based systems only succeed when each member of the community is treated uniformly hard work, intelligence, compassion, contribution to community should all be judged equally. Transgender people are part of my family, they are my friends and neighbors and coworkers as well. As a minority community that consistently suffers significant harm even when protections exist, they exhibit admirable courage and a strong sense of right and wrong. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HF583.
02-25-2025
Molly Hackett []
CON
I oppose this bill. Gender has never existed entirely in two perfect boxes and never will. I am so disappointed that our leaders would even consider legalizing discrimination in the areas of education, employment, housing, etc. for individuals who do not fit cleanly into the physical and behavioral molds of male and female. Taking action to remove this as a status protected from discrimination will result in more prejudice and hate for queer and trans people.who are already at an increased risk of dying by suicide. Many trans people (especially in smaller communities) do not have a selection of schools, employers, doctors, and landlords to choose from should they be denied access based on their gender identity or presentation. This concerns basic living needs. I truly think some Iowans (youth especially) will die if this bill is passed.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am the mother of a transgender daughter, choosing to withhold my name because of the danger it could put her in. People are intensely, heartlessly cruel. My daughter transitioned 12 years ago, at age 19, after the 2007 protection had been established in Iowa. She quietly changed her name and birth certificate, then her driver's license and passport The relief we felt when she could travel by herself, safely without question or harassment or embarrassment or fear was overwhelming for both her and my husband and me. Anyone who would consider rescinding this protection has never feared for the safety of their child. I beg you to consider the ramifications.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not approve of this bill. Through the first page alone, the definitions of "male" and "female" inherently exclude those who are infertile. Terminology used in section 1f and 1g even reflects the discriminatory and outdated doctrine following Plessy v. Ferguson with the infamous statement "separate but equal". In short, this bill targets a small group of people (transgender individuals) that is harmed with more than twice as much frequency than the group claims to be protecting (cisgender females), insinuating that the former is inherently predisposed to committing assault.This bill is not protection. No amount of ink on paper would stop a real criminal from entering a "protected" space. This applies not only to cisgender women that could be victims of transgender women, but also transgender women who could become victims of cisgender men. This said, it serves the exclusive purpose of removing protections from Iowans, and would force lawabiding transgender people into spaces where they are far more likely to be assaulted, such as bathrooms and prisons.Statistics claimed above sourced from the report Gender Identity Disparities in Criminal Victimization: National Crime Victimization Survey, 20172018 from the American Journal of Public Health.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is cruel and a disgrace upon our state. My spouse and I are scientists at ISU. My spouse has been working there for over 10 years. We will leave and take our expertise to Minnesota because Iowa is no longer a safe place for our trans child to grow up. Shame on Iowas government. Read the motto on our state flag and realize how horrible you are for writing this bill. Save what little left you have of your reputation while you still can and dont pass this bill!!
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Therapist]
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
RESPECT vs IGNORANCE
02-25-2025
Channon Timm []
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Iowans clearly don't want this. Why attack people who are doing nothing to affect you and simply trying to live their lives? This makes Iowa look horrible and makes me ashamed of this state and those in power within it.
02-25-2025
Hailey Amiya May [LGBTQ+]
CON
Hi my name is Hailey and I am against this bill I tell from my own experience know what gender disphoria does when not treated. I will say it's life threatening. And I also have almost died as a result of not receiving the proper care after so long it puts ones life at risk because the human body becomes reliant on the hormones and becomes irreversible. Not to mention my own gender disphoria has resulted in PTSD, Severe anxiety disorder Severe Depression. And have mutilated my ouw genitalia over this. I have tried to end my life because of what trauma and torment is this does to me and also my wife. This is Federally illegal and a violation of the United States Constitution and the protected rights that keeps us safe from discrimination. Stop this bill it is going to cost lives Please
02-25-2025
Micail [McPhee]
CON
This bill clearly does not represent the interests of Iowans.
02-25-2025
KE [My Family]
CON
This bill is NOT okay. There is nothing wrong with people living their life and being who they are. The world is full of hateful and mean people, and this type of stuff going around just gives encouragement to people to be hateful. Trans individuals are perfect the way they are and they deserve love and a voice just as much as anyone. I am so sick and tired of the hate that exists in this country and this state.
02-25-2025
Nora Crosthwaite []
CON
When I moved here in 2010, "Iowa nice" charmed me. I would tell everyone how great Iowa was, how welcoming, how inclusive. Since then, as a realtor, I've had to pray for my trans clients that their neighbor wouldn't hate them. I've had to sell houses for gay clients so they could move out of state. My sister is trans and living in Texas. I've had to tell her not to come here. Bathroom bills, trans women in sports... those are different issues. Literally allowing trans people to be discriminated against for housing, employment, financing, that is denying their humanity. Trans people are people.For those that say case law would prevent housing discrimination: you are incorrect. In 9+ years as a realtor, I've had clients denied financing because lenders didn't think these Latinos would qualify and didn't bother (they qualified). Buyers have been discriminated against because of familial status ("we want our house to go to a nice family, not a single woman.") And those people were members of protected classes. They had options. If this bill passes, those options will no longer exist for trans people. Removing gender identity from the civil rights code destroys the humanity of trans and nonbinary people. It doesn't protect women. It doesn't make me feel safer for myself or my teenage daughter. Instead, it tells the world that here in Iowa, a small group of people felt so scared, they had to remove protections from a marginalized community. Iowa is better than this. We must be. Or we will continue to lose valuable residents, employees.Please do not pass this bill. Please prove "Iowa nice" still exists, for everyone.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Vote no to the proposal stripping rights away from anyone. Do not go down the path that aligns Iowa with countries that deny their citizens the basic civil rights. This bill will fuel hate and is harmful to vulnerable Iowans. Please vote no.
02-25-2025
Michelle Miller []
CON
I am a Christian, a straight woman, a mother, a health care professional, a teacher, and a compassionate human being. I don't understand the desire to lessen civil rights for another human being. It doesn't make the world a safer place, in fact it does quite the opposite. It paves the path for "othering" our fellow human beings. The Bible teaches love for our neighbors. This sure doesn't feel like that.Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.
02-25-2025
Megan Brown []
CON
Vote No on HF 583. There is no good reason to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This bill does nothing to improve the lives of Iowans. All it does is put transgender Iowans at greater risk of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. There is no benefit here. The law should protect all of us. Gender identity should remain a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act and Iowa should continue to celebrate its history of civil rights protections for all people who live here. Reject this bill and return to making Iowa a place that welcomes instead of excludes, protects instead of discriminates, and values instead of denigrates.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please opposed this horrendous bill. It denies people who don't fit a gender binary their basic human rights. I don't recognize my home state anymore. Start focusing on bills that help Iowans and stop taking and taking and taking away.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
People just want to live their life in their most truest way possible. People who are for this are against people being happy. There is no benefit in any way shape or form for this bill being passed. It attempts to quell preconceived paranoia from the misinformed, unenlightened, and misguided masses. This bill only serves to harm the trans community.
02-25-2025
Janie Bessine []
CON
An assault on one Iowan, is on all Iowans. The utter contempt this body shows toward its citizens is outrageous.
02-25-2025
Samantha Gardner []
CON
This bill is egregious. This is not who we are as Iowans. This will set us back and will hurt many citizens of our state. The language regarding the definitions of "equal" sound like we're back in Jim Crow times. This ignores science and medicine at a time when our state desperately needs to hold on to physicians and recruit more. Most importantly, this hurts people.
02-25-2025
Jill Shaw [Self]
CON
I stand by my neighbors, colleagues, friends, family who are transgender. These people are PEOPLE who deserve housing and jobs. Please do the right thing and vote against this. It is so very wrong for Iowa.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Concerned citizen]
CON
Anyone who votes for this bill surely must never again call themselves a Christian. Make your choice.Jesus taught his disciples to love God and to love their neighbors, In both the gospel of Matthew (7:12) and the gospel of Luke (6:31), Jesus told them Do to others as you would have them do to you. In the gospel of Matthew (25:40), Jesus said Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Stop wasting time tweaking your bills. Let the people who fought for rights keep them in the law books. Whether you agree with their lifestyle or theory or identity, they should still remain protected, at least in laws from harm and ignorance.Iowa was one of the first states to approve same sex marriage and I witnessed my parents attend a wedding or two women (who have remained happily married 20+ years later) when the couple's own parents did NOT attend. It was too soon for the parents. Let's keep moving forward, steadily without infighting to undo progress.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Myself ]
CON
I oppose this bill. For liberty and justice for ALL.
02-25-2025
Larissa B []
CON
Stripping protections from transgender persons goes directly against Iowa's beloved motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. It is not in our great state's interest to legalize transgender discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations, but that is what this bill seeks to do. It is a slippery slope when discrimination is made legal against one group of people, as history has shown time and again it will not stop there. We can't allow our government to go down this road. You claim that you're doing this for women; please listen to women when we say we overwhelmingly oppose this bill! Trans rights are human rights, plain and simple. The will of your constituents should come before party. Vote no on this bill!
02-25-2025
Joanna Winston [Self]
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed changes to the Iowa Civil Rights Code, particularly those that would negatively impact the rights of transgender individuals in our state. As a concerned constituent, I urge you to reconsider supporting these changes and to stand in favor of equality, inclusion, and the wellbeing of all Iowans.Transgender individuals deserve the same fundamental rights and protections as anyone else. The proposed change to the Iowa Civil Rights Code would create unnecessary barriers for transgender people, who already face significant challenges in our society. According to a 2021 study by the Williams Institute, nearly one in three transgender individuals in the United States report experiencing discrimination in public accommodations, employment, or housing. By restricting protections for trans individuals, we are effectively endorsing a culture of discrimination, rather than promoting the inclusivity that Iowa stands for.In addition to the moral and social implications, there are economic consequences to becoming a state known for limiting the rights of transgender individuals. Many businesses and organizations prioritize inclusivity as part of their hiring practices and corporate policies. By taking a stance against the rights of transgender individuals, Iowa risks losing major employers, economic investment, and tourism, all of which are vital to our state's growth. According to a 2020 report from the Human Rights Campaign, states that are supportive of LGBTQ+ rights see significant economic benefits, including increased job creation and the attraction of diverse talent. Being known as a state that does not protect its transgender citizens will only make Iowa less attractive to progressive companies, leading to missed opportunities for growth and development.Another critical aspect of the proposed changes concerns the participation of transgender athletes in womens sports. Some have raised concerns that allowing trans women to compete in womens sports will undermine fair competition. However, research and experience show that these concerns are largely unfounded. The NCAA, for example, has implemented policies that allow trans athletes to participate based on hormone levels, ensuring a fair playing field. There is no evidence to suggest that trans women have an advantage over cisgender women in sports. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Sporting Cultures and Identities found that transgender women often face significant physical and social barriers, which mitigate any perceived advantages. Denying trans athletes the opportunity to compete in accordance with their gender identity not only violates their rights but also sends a harmful message to young people about inclusion and fairness.In conclusion, I ask that you stand in support of transgender rights, economic opportunity, and fairness in sports by opposing the proposed changes to Iowa's Civil Rights Code. Iowa has long been known as a state that values equality, and we must continue to uphold these values, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender identity, are treated with respect and dignity.
02-25-2025
Angela hays [Private citizen]
CON
I am writing to you today to vehemently oppose the removal of the protection of these rights. All people deserve equal rights and protections, regardless of race, religion, or identity in ANY form. No one should be denied the right to housing, financial services, employment, credit, education, or any service simply because of their existence. If this legislation passes, it will strip these protections and fly in the face of what Iowa supposedly stands for in our motto. It will do irreparable harm to countless Iowans. It will also be a stain on the face of Iowa, sending the message that we are not a welcoming state, that we endorse hatred and bigotry. Is that really who we are? I'd like to think we are better than that!I beg you to reject this legislation, not only for the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming people of Iowa, but for other marginalized groups who will no doubt be next on the chopping block. Equal rights for one should be equal rights for all.
02-25-2025
Alicia & David Claypool [Retired]
CON
We are opposed to HF 583 that erases transgender people in Iowa from protections against discrimination. This bill would take Iowa back to a time when transgender persons lived in the shadows, scraped by because discrimination kept them from obtaining a good education, jobs and housing. A time when transgender persons frequently suffered from depression and many turned to alcoholism and drugs or committed suicide because society was so cruel and hateful. Iowa has made great strides since 2007 when the Iowa Civil Rights Act was amended to protect all people regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. Transgender persons are more welcome in our schools, houses of worship, at work, and in our neighborhoods and communities. Until recently, they were able to more fully participate in our society, be ordained clergy, have families, take vacations, coach the tennis team, see themselves in our books and history, and simply pursue happiness, just like you and me. Our families are learning about the transgender people in our midst and are welcoming them into our lives and hearts, as you would with any family member. We see more trans folks and students these days, and we have learned more about them as human beings. Our family has joined the ranks of other families with transgender members. They are our family and we, my husband and I, would do anything to protect their rights and dignity. Do not take away their rights! Let our grandchild have the opportunity to grow up healthy, get an education in her chosen field, seek and fulfill her dreams, fall in love, decide to become a parent if she wishes and live in peace, without the drumbeat of hate and bigotry that will destroy her soul, her life that is pouring from this Legislature, Governor and those who claim to be Christian. I am a person of faith who believes that we are all children of God and deserving of her love. This includes recognizing that transgender persons are children of God, too, just like you and me, and deserving of his love, respect and fairness. Including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination is heeding God's commandment to love one another as she loves you. Stand up, Iowa, to protect transgender Iowans and OPPOSE HF 583 that would take their rights away.
02-25-2025
Hope Johnson []
CON
Vote no. This will only speed up the brain drain of young people and families who care about other people, including transgender people. Dont embarrass Iowa by making us the only state to rip away civil rights from a small and vulnerable population of people. Stop it.
02-25-2025
Maria Taylor [Keep Your Paws at Home]
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous [Iowa resident]
CON
I think Iowans can work together to address valid, practical concerns from all perspectives regarding this issue without having to take away the civil rights of a vulnerable minority group.Intersex issues are a real medical thing, and gender dysphoria is a real health issue. In 70%of cases gender dysphoria resolves itself if the person is given time/opportunity to safely explore their identity, but in the 30% of cases where it does not resolve, people need to be allowed to safely express their preferred gender identity, and we as a society do not need to persecute them for this. I know that considering more than two strict binary genders is a paradigm shift for many of us, but new knowledge is goodpeople learning that the sun did not revolve around the Earth or that women could wear pants or work outside (or inside) the home, be legislators or state governors, or that men could cook/clean or be stay home dads was also paradigm shifting. We also need to remember that there is foreign influence trying to divide and weaken the U.S. Part of Putins rise to power in Russia involved him deliberately scapegoating the LGBTQ community in order to manipulate the public based on fear and disinformation. In recent U.S. election cycles people paid by Russian interests have posed as extremists to try to manipulate public opinion and sow disinformation. Perhaps something like this could even be involved in the incident described at the Pella swimming pool. All the transgender people I have met are just regular people trying to live their lives in peace and contribute to the community like everyone else and are not interested in extremist provocations like what a previous commenter described in the Pella situation. Im sure the community there can come up with reasonable common sense guidance for pool goers attire without needing to have the state pass a law restricting civil rights and removing gender from the list of qualities that one cannot be discriminated against.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am saddened that I need to comment on this bill. This a pointless piece of posturing. Passing this bill will help absolutely no one, and will absolutely hurt many. So stop wasting your constituents' time and money by actively working against them, and better the lives of your constituents, as you were elected to do.
02-25-2025
Erin []
CON
Do not let this legislation pass. There is no place for this hateful discrimination in our state. All Iowans deserve civil rights. Stay out of peoples private business. Section 1 a g is blatant discrimination that not only targets a specific population, but that would also have negative ramifications for all of Iowa. We must not strip the rights of any Iowans nor define their humanity by one aspect of anatomy. Humans are complex and trans lives are beautiful.
02-25-2025
Cameron Van Kooten Laughead [Room for All]
CON
I vehemently oppose the removal of civil rights from any Iowans, let alone those who are most vulnerable. Not only will this bill detrimentally and immorally harm the ability of trans and nonbinary Iowans to access things like housing, employment, and public services, but it will also be weaponized against cisgender Iowans and open the door for further insidious discrimination. This bill is a poorly thought out, heinously harmful measure that is so broad and vile in it's scope that it's hard to imagine the author(s) have even remotely thought it through to its logical conclusions. The choice to throw Iowans under the bus in order to make a headline or a soundbite is horrifying. Do not pass this draconian and illconceived bill.
02-25-2025
Kayla Dick []
CON
I am writing to strongly oppose House File 583. As a licensed mental health therapist and a queer woman, I am deeply concerned about the harm this bill would cause to the mental health and safety of Iowas LGBTQ+ community, particularly transgender and nonbinary individuals. Denying people the right to have their gender accurately reflected on vital records and restricting inclusive education sends a harmful message that certain identities are invalid. Research shows that such discrimination contributes to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide among LGBTQ+ individualsissues that affirming policies help mitigate. Inclusive education and recognition of diverse identities not only foster empathy but also protect vulnerable youth from isolation and bullying.This bill also stands in direct opposition to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, which guides mental health professionals. The core values of Service, Social Justice, and Dignity and Worth of the Person emphasize helping people in need, challenging social injustice, and respecting each persons inherent dignity. Restricting gender recognition and inclusive curricula undermines these principles, further marginalizing vulnerable groups. As professionals dedicated to addressing social problems and advocating for equity, we cannot support legislation that causes harm to the very communities we are called to protect. I urge you to vote NO on HF 583 and instead promote policies that uphold dignity, compassion, and evidencebased care.
02-25-2025
James Hefel []
CON
This bill is a horrific attempt to subvert established laws barring discrimination against people of all types and backgrounds but using trans people as a scapegoat. This bill helps no one. How could it? Taking rights away from any group of people harms the rights of all people, regardless of if they are directly affected. If rights can be taken away from one group, they can be taken from any group. That's not even mentioning that the definitions laid out in this bill are not consistent with scientific definitions of sex, gender, and etc. nor do they leave doctors the discretion and freedom to act based on the needs of their patients. We have enough problems in healthcare as a state already. We do not need more.Please do not vote for this bill which serves at best as a distraction from the real problems Iowa faces, and at worst is opening the door to restrictions on civil rights for all Iowans who aren't rich enough to buy them.
02-25-2025
John Tollefson []
CON
I'm here to say that I oppose House File 583. I've been an Iowan for my whole life and learned that I'm nonbinary while living here. The protections for gender identity help us and make sure we're protected like all Iowans should be. If you take away those protections, trans Iowans will absolutely be subject to all sorts of laws like the ones that have been passed in schools to try and keep us out of public life, our life here as Iowans. It seems like this law wants to open the gates further to make my home, our home, somewhere where we don't belong. I've already had a friend who had to leave due to the changes made to AEAs. I want Iowa to be and stay my home and grow old here but if trans Iowans lose their legal protections like this law wants to do, I may not have that luxury, nor may the Iowans who don't have the means to leave if they could, even if it means they might die thanks to this and laws like it.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
CONThese people are in fact still people and deserve to have all of their rights left in tact.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Hello . I am writing to you to ask the legislature of Iowa to vote no on this bill. Our country was built on the premise of equal rights for everyone. I have several precious friends and family who are transgender or transsexual. People do not chose to be transgender. It is as biological as being g cisgender. I am a mastered level social worker who served many transgender clients over the years. I would say this group of people is one of the most gentle and caring group of folks Ive met . They are living their biological truth. Just like being gay or lesbian or straight or gay , it is not a choice people make casually or without deep thought, consideration . Its important that those wishing to remove basic civil rights from an already terribly oppressed group remember we are talking about peoples daily life. Getting a job, having a place to live, being able to travel without being stopped , harassed and likely searched just because they clearly are women but they have an M on their identification. One could not do anything requiring an ID without making that task incredibly harder if not impossible to do. I ask myself why? Why are you doing this. We know it is not protecting women because the perpetrators of women are cisgender heterosexual men . Period! That is a fact . Whats next ? Restricting lesbians or gay men from their respective restrooms because they are attracted to that sex? Are women safe? Women categorically state they are not threatened by this but this has been ramped up to create hysteria where there was none . It is morally wrong and not consistent with either what Jesus espoused . He stood with the oppressed not those with power hurting others out of their own fear and lack of accurate knowledge of this group of people. I ask you to please be true Iowans not this bastardization of Iowa. I have always told Minnesotans all the wonderful things about Iowa and Iowans . However that view has changed with these bills being introduced the last couple of years. Now Iowa just seems like another backward uneducated state that ignores science. That will not improve Iowa nor bring good things to Iowa which would better their lives . Lease vote no on this bill .
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Equality doesn't hurt anyone. Giving others rights doesn't make fewer rights for you. It's not a pie. Jesus call us to LOVE everyone not just people who look and act like us.
02-25-2025
Christopher Ellis []
CON
In a nutshell, HF583 would strip away essential protections, leaving a vulnerable population at increased risk of discrimination and harm. The arguments that this bill will somehow protect women and children are made in bad faith. Biological sex is complex and not always binary. Intersex individuals demonstrate that biological variation exists. Denying this means denying access to necessary medical care and social support and will increase the risk of mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation, in transgender individuals.
02-25-2025
Jeff Zimmerman [Self. Amazon. Kindle Direct Publishing.]
CON
The biblical understanding of male and female is more than just an assumption writ large on the pages of Scripture. We know from Genesis 1 and 2 that the categories of male and female are a part of Gods design for humanity. Indeed, when God created the first human pair in His image, He created them male and female (Gen. 1:27). He made the woman to be a complement and help to the man (Gen. 2:1822). Far from being a mere cultural construct, God depicts the existence of a man and a woman as essential to His plan in regards to creation. The two are neither identical nor interchangeable. But when the woman, who was taken out of man, joins again with the man in sexual union, the two become one flesh (Gen. 1:2324). Dividing the human race into two genders, male and femaleone or the other, not both, and not one then the otheris not the invention of Victorian prudes or patriarchal oafs. It was Gods idea.
02-25-2025
Caitlyn Ebert []
CON
Please vote against this. This is the product of hate, and is not freeing for anyone. This is a direct threat to transgender Iowans, and is pointless. This will not keep other populations "safe", but will instead harm marginalized communities. This will impact an individual's life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness and repress their constitutional rights. This bill has no real purpose other than to harm those who have faced enough already.
02-25-2025
Julie McCarty [None]
CON
No. This is cruel and pure hatred. Does nothing for the good of the state or anyone living here. You republicans are so weird with your obsession of what happens in bathrooms and between someones legs. What do you personally get out of this? Money? Power? Who gives you the right to erase the existence of human beings? This bill is disgusting, hateful and despicable.
02-25-2025
Tom Carpenter []
CON
Taking away any group's Civil Rights is a very wrong and dangerous step. What group will be next? All people should have the same basic rights. This definitely includes trans people, who hurt nobody else by living their true lives. Vote no on this horrendous bigoted bill.
02-25-2025
Janet Evans []
CON
I am opposed to this bill. Civil rights are for everybody. Vote NO.
02-25-2025
Teddy Doty []
CON
As a Trans person born and raised in Iowa, I could not be more ashamed to see what our representatives are doing with their time. To the people who have spoke and decided that we will not be discriminated against in housing, healthcare, and workplace, who are you to speak on experiences you couldnt possibly know of yourself? The harsh reality is that even without you stripping us of our only veil of protections, we are ALREADY discriminated against every single day in IOWA. The Law is there to protect and serve those who can afford to play the system. Struggling trans people do not always have the means to fight against those who discriminate against us! This bill will enable and encourage the discrimination of trans people. You do not wish to protect those more marginalized than you, if you did then you would let us live in PEACE. You wouldnt spend every day bothered by what we do with our lives, bodies and birth certificates. You would ask what happens to trans men and trans masculine people in the bathrooms if you care for people who were born women, oh thats right? you wouldnt want to know if it doesnt help YOU. And research what happens to trans women in mens prisons while youre busy throwing them in there!
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My brother transitioned over 10 years ago. I'm outraged that after over a decade his rights, safety and well being are in question. For over 10 years identifying as the gender which feels comfortable to him, in a body that makes him feel whole with the support of his family in full. How can that be wrong? What right does my neighbor have to say what is right for him? Why does the government which has protected him this whole time, suddenly deciding it's everyone's business to weigh in on his life. Or how we as a family have supported him and never questioned his wishes. The real crime of this whole notion to strip non binary and transgender people of Iowa, is why are opinions leading the charge for this heartless act? Opinions which live in fear, lack of understanding and are all transphobic and homophobic in nature. Opinions fueled by religion which is not law. Faith is not law. God is not law. Protecting diversity and encouraging people to feel safe and comfortable in their own skin doesn't cost this state a thing. My brother was my sister once upon a very long time ago. And the person I remember was never my sister, he was someone who wanted to be the man he is now. I don't want to see his face is this law passes. Keep Iowa safe for all LGBTQIA+ people of all ages!
02-25-2025
Tyler Cartee []
CON
This helps no one and benefits no one. This will only harm an incredibly small group of individuals who have done nothing to deserve to be targeted like this. Trans people have existed for as long as modern man and will continue to exist. You cannot legislate them away. We are talking about peoples family members, they have people that love and care about them. This will only embolden those who want to do harm and discriminate against them. Please do not do this.
02-25-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This bill is a flagrant exercise in pointless cruelty and an unacceptable attempt to roll back civil rights. Trans people are infinitely less a threat to others than cis men are. If you actually cared about the safety of women you'd work on that backlog of rape kits instead.
02-25-2025
Jonathan Danker []
CON
I oppose HSB 242 because it would a huge step backwards of human rights. Trans people do exist and you cant erase that by saying otherwise. I dont want Iowa to be the first to remove a right from the civil rights code. If passed, it could lead to unintended consequences for everyone and innocent people being harmed and killed. The separate but equal argument has been used by Politicians and Judges to justify their racist views. If you really care about woman, give them equal rights not to use them for your own political agenda. This may fall on deaf ears but you should be ashamed of yourself if you pass this when most of Iowa do not want this. God has taught us to be yourself and not judge others. If you are listening, Please don't pass this bill for the sake of the children and Iowa.
02-25-2025
Becky Soglin []
CON
This bill is harmful and makes Iowa a less safe place. Just stop it. Thank you.
02-25-2025
Denise []
CON
I am against this baseless bill. I dont understand the obsession the GOP has with targeting transgender folks, a group that makes up only 1% of the US population. There are more pressing matters like the economy and proper healthcare for Iowans that affect a far large percentage! Trans people are just like any other group and wish to be left alone to live their lives. The idea that anyone is out to turn or harm kids/women is ludicrous and baseless. Bills like these only serve to harm cis women who appear more masculine to others, and cause unnecessary panic and police paperwork.
02-25-2025
Amber Shaheen []
CON
I am a 4th generation Iowan. I don't have any transgender family or friends, nor have I ever felt that my rights were impeded upon because of a trans person. I am appalled that the same people who "want to decrease government waste" are wasting valuable time & money trying to take the rights away of such a marginalized group. I can't think of one logical reason this should be an issue. My children all attended public school. They all played sports & all did extracurricular activities. You know how many times they were either bothered by, harassed by, or made to feel uncomfortable by someone who was trans? Zero! Let's spend our time on things that actually impact Iowans! We can & should do better!
02-25-2025
Melissa Sodeman []
CON
This bill targets the rights and freedoms of one of our states most vulnerable groups. Trans people should have the right to live their lives freely, openly, and with the same protections under the law others in Iowa have. We need to reject discriminatory bills like this that single out and scapegoat innocent people whom those in power want us to direct our frustration and anger towards. Trans people are not our enemies. Lets stand with them against hate and discrimination.
02-25-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No Iowan should have to hide or deny who they are. Without continued protection and recognition, the wellbeing of a group of Iowans who happen to be trans will be put in danger by other Iowans through loss of career, housing, and education, and the denial of basic rights of selfactualization. HF 583 as proposed perpetuates a culture of fear that is so easily used to stoke hatred and further misunderstanding. Trans people are just people like everyone else, and as we continue to learn more about the human race, I truly believe we can be a generation that moves our thinking and culture forward together instead of backward in continued fearbased opposition. I hope this is not about politics or power for you. This is about real Iowans just trying to live their lives without persecution. This is about civil rights. There has to be a more humane way to live with each other. Please do not pass HF 583 as proposed.
02-26-2025
Robyn Hawkins [Private Citizen]
CON
The removal of civil rights protections from a marginalized group is reprehensible. How does that in any way make Iowa better? You can try to disguise this as "protecting women," but you are not. You can try to disguise this as "just following the scientific facts," but you are not. You are using the most shallow possible, myopic, incorrect understanding of genetics and human development as a smokescreen for bigotry.I was born in Iowa. I have lived here for almost my entire life. An Iowa that passes this is not the Iowa I grew up in.
02-26-2025
Robert Bjork [Private citizen ]
CON
I want to address the bill as an Iowan who is greatly concerned with the direction that not only our country but state is going at some point we need to use common sense and find empathy to see each other as not enemies but American citizens and Iowans again. This culture war attacking one side of the other needs to end and divisive legislation doesn't help that. I hope that as a former Republican voter like myself that we can all get along again while ending the needless conflict.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Concerned citizen]
CON
As a trans Iowan Im extremely concerned about this proposal. This was once a state that I could be proud calling home, but in recent years that has increasingly no longer been the case, with this the latest in a long line of concerning proposals and laws. Ive lived in the state my whole life, and am currently attending a public university here in the state. Even though I love this state, I dont know how much longer I can stay somewhere that doesnt love me.
02-26-2025
Travis Flory []
CON
We need to stop politicizing this sort of an issue. This is something where there should be some sort of a look to science on the issue, where our lawmakers simply want to make a political statement dehumanizing people who already have it hard enough. Politicizing sex/gender isn't making America great or helping Iowa either.
02-26-2025
Avree O'Brien []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
I am absolutely against this bill as it removes the civil protections of trans Iowans, directly risking their health, safety, and wellbeing. This bill is hateful and shameful and Im disappointed and shocked that a state I was once proud to be from is putting forth such regressive and abusive proposals. This bill is directly opposing civil liberties of Iowans and must be stopped.
02-26-2025
Karolyn J Knoll [a public citizen ]
CON
This bill violates civil rights act of 1964 and is bad for Iowa.
02-26-2025
Amanda Staker [Concerned Citizen/Voter]
CON
Please say no to these bills threatening to strip away equal rights for our transgender peers. Thats what transgender people are, they are just like you and me. They want the right to have equal footing in this community. They want to be able to work and find housing. And they deserve that. The language regarding separate but equal is particularly concerning and reminiscent of segregation laws. I believe there is a similar intention behind this bill. Attacking the civil rights of a marginalized community should not be your priority at this time or ever. There is no good purpose that can come from this. I keep hearing the supporters of this bill stating that it prevents rights from being taken from women. I do not feel like transgender rights encroach on my rights. Now, there are many laws that do. Those seem to still be going right through, so I dont think that is the real issue here. Stop using it as an excuse to pass this heinous bill. Frankly, it is insulting. Protecting the equal rights of some does not take away from the equal rights of another. We are all human beings. It seems like your focus has shifted to doing work that hurts Iowans, instead of helping. Lets not lead the way in this nation for hate. Please say no to this bill and get to work making this a better state for ALL Iowans. It is clear from the messages you are receiving from the public that your constituents do not want this. Please remember that you are voted into office by said people.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [CRCSD]
CON
A person's civil rights should not be taken away. I am disgusted that this bill would ever be considered or even brought up.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this hurtful, hateful bill. It will endanger lives of Iowans who are just trying to live and support their community. We cannot and should not roll back civil rights protections. Please stop the hate and do not vote for this bill.
02-26-2025
Brie Goldman []
CON
I am opposed to this bill! There is no reason further complicate the lives of those identifying as transgender. Your gender at birth does NOT determine your right to vote or receive medical care and proper education. We need to protect basic human rights for all Iowans. We are one state in a nation that was supposedly built on the idea of freedom and limiting those freedoms is absolutely unacceptable. DO NOT PASS THIS BILL! Thank you.
02-26-2025
Colleen Dencklau [Colleen Dencklau]
CON
02-26-2025
Kelly Danilson [My Family - which is the most important organization I could ever belong to!]
CON
I am unable to attend the public hearing today, but I will share the same thing with the House that I shared with the Senate:I strongly oppose SF 418. For those in favor of the bill, where is the data to back this bill? I have yet to see any data on the table for all of us to see. If the data existed, STRONG data, those in favor would be shouting it from the rooftops. The fact that no data is being shared makes me wonder if favor for this bill is rooted in subjective thoughts and opinions. Or perhaps it is rooted in the fear of the unknown which if that is the case, have open communication with our transgender loved ones, friends, and neighbors. Get to know them, learn from them, and you will see, they are not a threat, and they certainly arent infringing on my rights as a woman. Whether it be subjectivity or fear, neither is justified reasoning for passing a bill that will hurt our fellow Iowans. Jesus says to let the little children come to Him. Jesus never said anything about gender identity barring which children could come to Him. We are ALL children of God. We are ALL made in Gods image. Judiciary Committee Members, you have the means to strike down this bill. If you do not, you are sending a loud message to people across America and the world that they are not welcome in our state. You would be sending a loud message to citizens already living here, some who have lived here their whole lives, that they are no longer welcome in our state. Are you wanting to open the doors for discrimination against our transgender loved ones, friends, and neighbors? Because that is what will happen, it is naive to think otherwise. As an Iowa citizen, I am embarrassed and disheartened that state leaders would ever consider this bill. Please vote NO. Please stop hurting our family, friends, and neighbors!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I vote no on this. I don't understand the issue with transgender people. No one is changing their gender identity to cheat in sports or to be a threat in bathrooms. They are changing their gender to feel a sense of normalcy. I can't grasp how you would rather have transgender men in women's bathrooms and transgender women in men's bathrooms. To me, that would be weird and draw much more attention then them simply using their chosen bathroom. You are punishing innocent people who are just trying to live their lives. There are a million other important things to be focusing on. I don't get it. Laws will never erase transgender people. They will only cause unnecessary harm and confusion. You want to keep transgender ideology out of schools? You are still going to have to explain to your child why there is a transgender man in the women's bathroom.Again, you CANNOT erase them.
02-26-2025
Bryan Mullen []
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-26-2025
Rev. Jill Michel []
CON
I stand in opposition to HF583. All Iowans deserve to live freely and fully protected. Trans Iowans are our friends, our neighbors, our family. And the unfortunate reality is that without protections in place trans Iowans will suffer. As a person of faith and a pastor, I claim the beautiful diversity of all of Gods creation and Gods love for all. Taking away rights is not who we have been as Iowans. Let it not be who we become. Please stand against HF583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
These rights were ALREADY hard won in previous times and dismantling them is detrimental in the sense of people being denied education, careers and even housing. I don't know why we need to keep "chewing on the same dirt" here. People need to live freely, contribute to society, have an education, housing, healthcare no matter who and what they are without governmental overreach. I am tired of the cruelty and disenfranchisement amongst the GOP. From denying food and housing for children, seniors, veterans and otherwise most vulnerable is downright cruel and inhumane and it needs to stop.
02-26-2025
Lynn [Speed]
CON
Words we use matter. Especially gender words. They identify us at our core, who we are on the inside as well as the outside. Please don't make this change.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This bill protects no one and only enables further cruelty of an already minuscule minority population. And how is this a priority when our state has so many other pressing issues? Just passing legislature to pass it or because other party members tell you to support it is not a good enough reason. Feed some underfed children or help those who dont have access to safe or stable housing. This is no ones priority except weirdos who are concerned about what is in another persons pants. Do better.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please educate yourselves. Gender is not the same as Sex. You all a bunch of bigots and God will judge you for your actions.
02-26-2025
Melody Ellet []
CON
For the past 18 years, I've been a pediatric nurse in Iowa. I have seen first hand how supporting trans and other LGBTQ rights saves the lives of trans and other LGBTQ children. Both as children, and as adults, all people deserve to live free of discrimination. Removing protections based on gender and gender identity removes that right from a piece of the population unnecessarily. Trans people cause absolutely no harm to the communities around them. Wasting taxpayer time and money to make laws allowing discrimination is just an act of evil, and nothing else. Medical research has shown time and time again that the MRI scans of trans people match those of the gender they identity with, no those of their sex assigned at birth. Whether or not anyone wants to believe that research is a moot point, though. The true point is that trans people are people and deserve to be treated as such.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
REMOVING civil rights from a group of people is wrong. Oppose this hateful bill.
02-26-2025
Ben [Self]
CON
This bill is a nothing but legalized discrimination. That's not the Iowa I grew up in. Stop focusing on a scapegoat and do things that actually help Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Please vote no regarding this bill. This is a clear path leading the government to violate people's civil rights. This is an outdated mindset and we should be moving forward, not backward in 2025.
02-26-2025
Steve Hanken []
CON
Doing away with any person's civil rights in my estimation is a crime! It starts a chain of events that calls into question every variation in human kind, be it the color of their skin, the color of their eyes, their ethnicity, the shape of their nose, their ability or in ability to conform, almost anything one can imagine! This is exactly the way the NAZI regieme eliminated wholesale groups of people by making them "others" and they started with those who were easy to identify as "different", be they gay,lesbian, or any other variety of divergent human other than "straight". Once that was done, it moved forward to larger groups and fueled by propaganda, eliminated the handicapped, the mentally unstable, the gypsies, the jews and rather swiftly millions of innocent people who were murdered, robbed, turned into slave labor and eventually killed. This is not the path Iowan's wnat to take, EVER!
02-26-2025
Megan Weinberger []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583/HSB 242. To pass this bill is to strip trans and gendernonconforming Iowans of their protections to live a decent life. You are not scared of transgender people, you are afraid of cisgender men!
02-26-2025
CJ []
CON
Look at the comments hereLook at the comments on the bill when it was HSB 242Look at the comments on the bill when it was SF 418The people have spoken OVERWHELMINGLY NODO not vote to pass this legislation Do not go down this pathThe people do not want it you know that
02-26-2025
Reese Koppenhafer []
CON
This bill will specifically strip protections and rights from a group of Iowans, making Iowa the first in the nation to start marching backwards towards a time when discrimination was a defining characteristic of this country. WE WILL NOT GO BACK. As an Iowan born and raised, from a small town, I grew up knowing that we must care for our neighbors, treat each other as we wish to be treated, and keep our communities safe for ALL PEOPLE. As an Iowan, I condemn this bill with my whole being as it goes against all of these values of that we claim to hold dear as midwesterners and Iowans. This bill, in defining man and woman is referencing Christian based beliefs to make this distinction. I do not want a city, state, or country based around a single religions beliefs. A founding ideology of this country is also being thrown out the window with this blatant tie to a specific religion.
02-26-2025
Tylor Fowler []
CON
Maybe if Republicans worked this hard on things that actually made our lives better, this country would be in a better place. Stomping on the rights of our fellow Iowans gets us nowhere. You skidmarks dont deserve to make decisions for this state.
02-26-2025
Kimberly Glenn []
CON
My name is Kimberly Glenn, born and raised in Iowa, and I strongly oppose HF 583 for its devastating impact on transgender Iowans and our entire community. This bill undermines science, erases decades of civil rights progress, and endangers lives. Please consider the following points: Scientific Truth and Biological Reality: Peerreviewed research confirms that gender identity is shaped by prenatal hormones, genetic factors, and brain structure differences. Transgender individuals often exhibit neurological patterns more aligned with their affirmed gender than with their birthassigned sex. This is not ideologyits biology. Impact on Transgender Iowans: National estimates indicate that about 0.60.7% of U.S. adults are transgender. With Iowas population of roughly 3.1 million, that means approximately 18,000 to 22,000 transgender Iowans. In my own family, two transgender relatives experienced severe depression, selfharm, and even suicidal ideation before transitioning. Once affirmed, they found renewed hope and the strength to thrive. HF 583 would force themand thousands like themto use legal documents that misrepresent who they truly are, worsening mental health outcomes and increasing vulnerability. Rollback of 16 Years of Civil Rights Protections: For over 16 years, the Iowa Civil Rights Act has protected individuals from discrimination based on gender identity. HF 583 strips away these vital protections, leaving transgender individuals exposed to harassment and discrimination in workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Increased Bullying and Harassment: Removing legal recognition of gender identity emboldens bulliesboth peers and those in positions of authorityto target transgender individuals without fear of legal repercussions. In schools, this will create a hostile learning environment where transgender students are singled out and bullied, and in workplaces, it will lead to unchecked harassment that compromises both dignity and economic security. Educational and Social Consequences: The bill mandates that Iowa schools teach only a narrow, binary definition of sex by banning gender theory instruction for grades K6. This restriction limits critical, inclusive dialogue and prevents young people from understanding and accepting diverse gender identities. By forcing vital records to reflect only the sex assigned at birth, HF 583 further isolates transgender students and workers, making them easy targets for discrimination and bullying.HF 583 is not just a legal technicalityit is a step backward that jeopardizes the wellbeing of thousands of vulnerable Iowans. It disregards robust scientific evidence, reverses hardwon civil rights protections, and creates an environment where bullying and harassment in schools and workplaces can flourish unchecked. I strongly urge our lawmakers to reject HF 583 and instead support policies that honor both scientific truth and the dignity of every Iowan. Thank you.Sincerely,Kimberly GlennIowa Resident
Attachment
02-26-2025
Lev Schaul []
CON
I urge you to vote no. This bill only aims to take away from the people of Iowa. There are no positive benefits to be gained. If you vote yes, you let everyone know that you do not support every Iowan that lives here because as you know, voting yes will heavily affect the trans community. Gender identity in our civil rights doesn't take away from anyone, it only includes and provides safety for everyone. We want our fellow Iowans, the people you serve, to feel safe. I urge you to vote no.Also, as a born and raised trans Iowan, this bill fills me with so much dread for my future here in Iowa. I should have the right to not be discriminated against due to my gender identity and how I present myself to the world. If a cis person doesn't have to worry, than neither should I. I want to stay here, I want to feel supported here, so I urge you to vote no. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Maggie Douglas []
CON
Taking away civil rights from anyone, let alone, everyday Iowans just trying to live as their best and happiest self is just plain cruel. Trans Iowans make up less than one percent of our state, yet they are being used as a scapegoat by truly hateful lawmakers. I ask these lawmakers to stop sewing division into our communities and our state, and spend time fixing our real problems. Vote no on HSB 242!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is a hateful bill that puts us back 100 years in terms of civil rights. Any knowledgeable scientist will know that there is a spectrum of both sex and gender. We need to pass laws as a society that protect ALL the people in our society regardless of where they fall on that spectrum we need education that includes awareness of this spectrum so we dont have ridiculous claims that demonize individuals that dont fit the simple binary.
02-26-2025
Sara Even [ ]
CON
This state needs to stop legislating discrimination and hate. Transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people always have and always will exist. You cannot legislate their existence away. Work to lift citizens instead of wasting tax payer money on hate.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This bill and the intention behind it is a national embarrassment. Instead of regulating the bodies of citizens, the Iowa legislature should be focused on regulating harmful industry, protecting children from exploitation, expanding access to the remaining natural spaces in Iowa, and ensuring the success and prosperity of future generations of Iowans. Instead, the legislature is worried about what children choose to call themselves. Republicans used to be the party of small government, but this is about as intrusive as government can possibly get.
02-26-2025
Sara Ellet []
CON
Gender should be between the individual and their health care provider.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Vote NO. Revoking civil rights is a slippery slope. This is cruel and hateful. Iowa nice? No, Iowa CRUEL.
02-26-2025
Cheryl Binzen []
CON
This bill is not only cruel and heartless it is unnecessary. Any concerns that this bill is supposedly going to address can be addressed without stripping rights from a targeted group of our citizens.
02-26-2025
Kathleen Wood []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowa Citizen]
CON
When did Iowa become so cruel? Trans people having rights do not take rights away from anyone else. To say Im embarrassed by Iowan leadership is an understatement. Do the right thing and vote down this bill.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Oredson []
CON
We have been fighting for my daughters rights for the past 4 years. January May has become the bleakest time of year for us. And every year, the creeping need to leave grows. But we have stayed, because this is our home, and I want to stand and fight for it.But this is too far. Legalizing discrimination and taking away basic civil rights that my daughter currently holds. Erasing her legal existence from the Iowa Code. Its too far.I own a local business that employs 20 Iowans. My employees are like a family to me, and you cannot imagine how heartsick I am at the prospect of leaving all of this behind. Of taking my kids away from their family, their friends, and their community. My mind cannot fathom the devastation if I am forced to make this decision. But I will. There is nothing this mother wont do to protect her children.The legislation like this that is circulating all over the countrys red states is all justified as protecting women. What women really need protection from is cis men, but that's a conversation for another day. I have sat through dozens of speeches from the religious zealots supporting this bill, and I hear exactly what's really happening here. They believe that trans people should not exist. Or more accurately, they believe that trans people already do not exist and see these individuals as sick and deluded, men playing dressup. They want the state to impose those beliefs on the entire population. Well let me assure you, my daughter exists, and she is a whole and beautiful person. Until you've walked in our shoes, you know nothing.Trans people are being attacked right now because they are the lowhanging fruit. The freakish "other" that is an easy target for their fears. But it will not stop there. Proponents of this bill have already explicitly stated that sexual orientation should also be removed from the Iowa Civil Rights code. We can see the rest of the dominoes falling. The separation of church and state has become a pure illusion, so mark my words, this will not stop until the only ones left are ablebodied white Christian men. I have seen some Republicans speak out against this bill, and despite everything, I hold onto hope that there are enough Republicans who realize the danger of this bill that it will not be able to pass. This is a line they cannot cross. It takes a lot of courage, especially these days, to speak up and tell our private story, to be vulnerable before the masses. Please have the same courage to stand up and do what you know is right. Vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Megan Petkewec []
CON
Taking away rights of human beings is absurd. No one is or ever has been twothirds of a person What is the point of being so intentionally meanspirited? Is it to show us all what Christian Nationalists think is the right thing to do? To strip others of their rights to let us all know that you have "power"?What harm are you experiencing? Is it that not everyone looks, or acts, or uses the restrooms or loves like you do?!I ask that you leave people alone and let them retain their rights as they are.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ commands me to love my neighbors as myself, and to always treat others the way I wish to be treated.
02-26-2025
Kim Wesbrook []
CON
I support civil rights for ALL citizens of the state of Iowa, and the United States of America.
02-26-2025
Em Kapler []
CON
If Iowa's new motto is supposed to be "freedom to flourish" this bill does nothing but undermine that message. Removing civil rights protections from our citizens is a disgusting move that has no place in our state, nor the country. I vehemently oppose this bill in the strongest possible terms.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-26-2025
Edgar F Solis [United Methodist Church]
CON
In Iowa, we must to avoid all kinds of actions or regulations that produce any kind of discrimination against people with different sexual orientations or gender identity. United Methodist believers stands for those marginalized or discriminated people, we believe in a God of full acceptance, inclusion, love and compassion. Jesus call us to love our our neighbor and welcome everyone in the community as they are, regardless people's sexual orientation, ethnic origin, religion, culture, economic or immigration status. No to all kind of dehumanization or discrimination.
02-26-2025
Gordie Felger []
CON
I am a hard CON on this bill! Taking away civil rights from any segment of the state's population is no way to govern. If you can't govern resposibly, you should not be a posotion to govern.
02-26-2025
Katie Peterson []
CON
I'm a cisgender woman, and I'm tired of this heinous bill being an excuse to protect my rights. If you really cared about women's rights, there would be better access to abortion. If this bill passes, more women will be unprotected, because when you use the phrase "protect women" that includes cisgender and transgender women, and transgender women's rightsalong with all trans folks'will not be protected.I'm also a renter and I can speak personally of some of the difficulties of finding a place to live and dealing with landlords. This experience will be exasperated for trans folks who will have to navigate leasing companies that can deny them a lease or evict them because of their gender identity. They need legislation that supports them so that they don't have to live in fear of being unhoused and facing a litany of other issues that arise when you are unable to access the same things as everyone else.
02-26-2025
Doug Kollasch [Iowa City Human Rights Commission]
CON
On Tuesday, the Iowa City Human Rights Commission voted to be a signatory on a letter to this body in opposition to this legislation. In part this letter reads:"We strongly urge you to reject this harmful proposal and instead work toward strengthening and expanding civil rights protections, rather than dismantling them. Weakening protections for any group undermines the very foundation of equality and justice that Iowa stands for. Our commitment to civil rights must be unwavering, and we call on you to stand with us in defending the rights of all Iowans, ensuring that our state remains a place of opportunity, inclusion, and fairness for everyone."I, along with the majority of my fellow Iowans, do not wish to see our state become the first in the nation to actively remove rights from a group of citizens. That is not what our state stands for. In Iowa we prize our liberties and strive to maintain our rights that is declared in our state motto. Iowans are very proud of our state. But as Marsha P. Johnson, a trans woman of color who is credited with starting the uprising at the Stonewall Inn in 1969 that gave birth to the LGBTQ+ rights movement, said, "There is no pride for some of us without liberation for all of us." This awful legislation will take away liberties from our trans family members, friends, and neighbors, and in so doing, strip away the pride of being an Iowan from all of us. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Max Halbach []
CON
Vote NO on this bill. This bill encourages discrimination based on gender identity far beyond what the proponents claim. This bill makes it clear on p. 16, lines 9 through 24, that they fully expect genderbased discrimination in "employment, wages, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit practices."This bill is uniquely evil in that it will be the ***FIRST IN THE NATION TO STRIP CIVIL RIGHTS FROM A PROTECTED CLASS OF CITIZENS*** This bill will not keep people safe, it will only make living in Iowa harder for thousands of Iowans, and contribute to our worsening worker shortage.Vote NO against this bill. It is fascist in intent, don't let it become fascist in practice.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is an affront to not only the state of Iowa, but the ethos of the United States of America. "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" the Iowa motto is at odds with the clear intent of this bill to strip rights from am already vulnerable group of Iowans. Trans people deserve to live their lives free of prejudice and the existing protections have never been more sorely needed. The national political climate has been trying to throw these people under the bus and pin all of societies woes on them. It is a shame that the state legislators are so willing to worsen the lives of even a relatively small percentage of their constituents over political theater.
02-26-2025
Jenny Brenner []
CON
I urge you to vote against HF 583. It targets the most vulnerable among us. Trans people are just trying to survive and deserve the dignity and rights we all do. By denying the rights and existence of these marginalized people you are putting not only their safety at risk but their ability to survive and thrive in the state of Iowa. I have a trans child and I know first hand that this is an issue of life and death. I know that honoring a human the right to exist as they know they are meant to is a whole hell of a lot more important than what sits between their legs. And to be honest it disgusts me that anyone cares about that in the first place. I have trans friends that are fleeing the state heartbroken and scared. They know that they are not safe here and that they are not wanted. I am pleading with you today to take a moment and consider that you are targeting a vulnerable few that are doing no harm. You are targeting a vulnerable few that are just trying to live their lives in peace. I urge you to vote no to HF 583. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Kathryn Getting []
CON
Removing the equal rights of people in the middle of the gender spectrum, or transgendered people, will drive more Iowans to move away from our state and inhibit businesses to move to Iowa due to its dampening effect on attracting talent and families to the state. As cited in the White House 2014 FACT SHEET: Taking Action to Support LGBT Workplace Equality is Good for Business, writing, "Employere are taking action on the own to support workplace equality because they recognize it is in their best interest." Raising barriers to attract new people to Iowa does not promote economic growth, understanding, or community building. I ask you to vote this down
02-26-2025
Courtney Reyes []
CON
It is a sad day in Iowa that our government is attempting to remove rights from people. This is not about protecting women and children. It is about discrimination and hate.If you want to protect women and children, you should give them access to healthcare across our state, feed them lunch for free, and fund public education.Please stop using trans folks as your political pawn and run the government in a way that benefits all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Public Member]
CON
I was born in Iowa and chose to may this state my home, engage in my professional training, establish my career and raise a family in this state based on the fair and balanced leadership that has been a consistent part of our state's heritage and commitment. The general respect for each individual's rights and opportunities to live, thrive, and express their views and opinions has been a core part of the governance of this state this includes the protection of ALL religious and ethical views including those a person may disagree with, as long as they do not deny others their respective rights. The basic protections from discrimination in education, employment, and housing are not impeding any Iowan's ability to express their views and beliefs, nor do they encroach on anyone's ability to perform their daily lives and private business however they see fit. This bill is only meant to remove basic protections from individuals who already face discrimination and harassment on so many levels, and provides a disturbing precedent for ongoing removal of protections from any individual in this state. Stripping basic civil rights from any Iowan is a threat to every Iowan, and I emphatically disagree with this bill in every aspect.
02-26-2025
Zoe Hermsen [n/a]
CON
This bill is a waste of time and taxpayer dollars, accomplishing nothing but cruelty. I have known many people who would be affected by this bill in the 3 different cities I have lived in in this state. When the law is no longer on their side, they are likely to face discrimination in employment and housing. No one deserves to face that due to their personal identity.As a lifelong Iowan, I strongly oppose removing gender identity from our civil rights act. This was once a part of Iowa that I could be proud of; I hope we can move past this dark period of attempting to strip away civil rights.
02-26-2025
Amelia Cunningham []
CON
Allowing this to go through would set the state back significantly and open a door for discrimination across the country to expand more than it already has
02-26-2025
Amelia Curell []
CON
Our liberties we prize and our rights we maintain. That's our state motto. It's on our flag. I was born and raised in Iowa. I'm a veteran. I'm transgender. This bill is nothing short of abject cruelty; a targetted attack on a vulnerable minority for the sole purpose of scapegoating. Never does history look back on those that strip civil rights of minorities favorably. History will remember how you cast this vote. Do the morally right and objectively smart thing and vote no.
02-26-2025
Michael Knock []
CON
I teach history, and the history of our country is a long series of advances for the civil rights of our citizens. This bill is reverses that forward motion. It repeals protections for a class of Iowans that are among our most vulnerable citizens. It is appalling, and it puts Iowa on the wrong side of history.
02-26-2025
Jordan Selha [N/A]
CON
Your state employees who are transgender, intersex, or who love someone who is, your lesbian gay and bisexual staff and even your people who do not self identify with any of these but are nonetheless impacted you have caused irreparable harm even by introducing this legislation. I have the receipts for the harm you have caused me as a 53 year old trans man and for the near deadly harm you have caused our youth. We will have our day in court. And the state will pay in legal fees, loss of revenue, and unnecessary expenses for the violation of our liberties and the collateral damage you have caused. I know we are a small group. But you can see the support we have on our side. The courts have not been kind to you lately. I do want to address the folks who are speaking to you on the pro side of this bill today. They will claim they are worried about their privacy in restrooms and locker rooms. You even have a story about swimsuits and public pools. To you all, I want to apologize on behalf of my people. We have meant no harm. We are trying to live our lives outside of the oppressive closets in which we were raised. If your sense of safety was taken away for a few brief moments, I want you to know that I am sorry. I am sorry because I know. I live this day in and out. We can have a conversation about single stall bathrooms or appropriate coverage when it comes to swimsuit attire. I will happily engage with you and even fight for your safety as long as you will promise not to make it an uneven exchange. My civil rights, my ability to make a living, and to not face discrimination in housingthose are not an even trade. You will struggle to convince us that your experience in a handful of situations is paramount to the mental anguish caused by these legislative attacks on us. We need stability for our kids. We need jobs for our working public. And safe affordable housing for all. So my ask: Can we settle out of court today? Seriously, with the resources of One Iowa, our legal partners with ACLU, and our spiritual leaders who model a willingness to listen and get right with each other and our creator we can save the state the lawsuits, save everyone here today the anguish, and stop the hemoraging of taxpayers leaving the state. Rather than put Iowa on the map for being the first in the nation to remove civil rights, what about a legacy of working through a problem where people are deeply divided. What about being the first to do that? Which does our nation need more of? I will pledge my allegiance to any leader who will stand up and fight for this.
02-26-2025
Bobbi-Jo Molokken []
CON
This bill is extremely harmful to transgender Iowans. This legislation will not make these individuals cease to exist, it will simply create an additional level of difficulty to daily life for a population of Iowans who is already most vulnerable. For those of you who don't care about the wellbeing of fellow Iowans but instead care about money, there's also a very likely economic impact. Many of the law abiding, tax paying, employed individuals and their families may leave Iowa. Healthcare providers who believe in preventing suicide for our most vulnerable Iowans will leave the state as well because they don't want to work within systems that require them to harm their patients. Iowa already has an extremely difficult time recruiting and retaining Healthcare professionals, particularly in our rural areas and passing this legislation will further increase that difficult impacting ALL Iowans. This bill isn't solving any functional issues, it simply allows hateful people to harm vulnerable people. Even if you don't understand transgender peoples experience, there's no reason to regulate someone else's life that doesn't impact you at all.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I'm a transgender Iowan and I would like my experience to be heard.
02-26-2025
Jess Bates []
CON
Never ok.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None affiliated ]
CON
Humans stay human and remain worthy of civil rights, regardless of any identifiers, labels, or names given or taken up by them. Do not strip rights from ANY human. VOTE NO.
02-26-2025
Carmen Kinney [Retired]
CON
OPPOSED! Transgender Iowans are people. They are entitled to Civil Rights Protection.
02-26-2025
Jim Hackett []
CON
Iowa's legislature has no business deciding for individuals what their identifying gender is. This effort does not save taxpayers any money or improve the functioning of our government or state. This bill only serves to intimidate and make uncomfortable people who do not identify as male or female. This bill will not stop those people from identifying as nonbinary. It is a huge waste of government's time. If citizens do not want to recognize nonbinary people, they do not have tothis bill does not improve anything and is a huge government overreach.
02-26-2025
Kjistine Peterson []
CON
I know the line has been that this will protect women. I know people think this will make women safer. But the truth of the matter is, trans people are not a danger to women. Trans people are not a danger to anyone. If you are afraid of trans people, you need to examine your heart. The only things this bill will do are strip an already marginalized population of their rights, and will lay the groundwork to strip rights from cisgender women in the future. The majority of Iowans are very against this. Just look at the distribution of Pro and Con comments on every iteration of this bill. The only people that want this are coming from a place of fear and hate, not from a place of fighting for what they think is right. That is a dangerous precedent to set. Please, I implore you, stroke this down. Do what is right.
02-26-2025
Carla Peterman [Neighbor]
CON
I urge you to reject HF 583 and preserve civil rights for all Iowans. Gender identity needs to be a protected category. Discrimination of any kind should be rejected for all our neighbors. Please do not cancel transgender people but protect all Gods children.
02-26-2025
janet O'Brien [citizen]
CON
Discrimination is NEVER the right thing to do. How can you even think of changing this to drop LGBTQ rights?DEI and Civil rights are not in place to favor lower qualified minorities. It is so lower quality white males do not get favored over higher quality minorities. Only those with white straight male privilege do not understand this.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am proud to have been born and raised in Iowa. I was raised Catholic and graduated high school from St. Edmonds in Fort Dodge, and college at Clarke College in Dubuque. I have always been proud of our state motto Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain.I have serious concerns about HF 583. I strongly believe in a separation of church and state, and this bill would open a door to jeopardize that separation. This bill would create new government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Furthermore, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it could have unintended consequences. It may encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.Iowa needs to find a better way. I urge you to oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas legacy as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-26-2025
Isabella Rivera [University of Iowa, College of Education]
CON
As an Iowan who cares about my trans friends, family, and students and believes in the freedom to choose how to live and express myself freely, I oppose this bill.
02-26-2025
Kacie Schumann [Private Citizen]
CON
My name is Kacie Schumann, and I have lived in Iowa my whole life, currently residing in Ames. I am against this bill. In Iowa we are supposed to have the Freedom to Flourish, but this bill will actively make life harder for those in the LGBTQIA+ community. This could deny people employment, housing, public services, and more. Iowa used to be a progressive state, but removing a protected class from our Civil Rights Act would set us back decades.
02-26-2025
Shaun Hemsted []
CON
As a parent of a strong, independent thinking son who has had to deal with gender struggles his whole life, I am against this bill as I have witnessed and been a part of his struggle for 30+ years from the age of 2 years old. This bill would take away his true identity, an identity that is real. It will also falsely put him at risk of charges living his true life, that's not what we do in this Society .... in this State .... in this country.
02-26-2025
Jessica Musil [Citizen]
CON
I'm ashamed of Iowa for trying to strip rights from the Iowa Civil Rights Code. The mere idea that this was even introduced let alone passed out of committee is outrageous. If you vote to pass this, then you openly accept and advocate hate towards others who are different than you. Have any of you ever talked to a trans individual? I know several. They only wish to exist and live a fully authentic life, just like everyone else. They don't want to be the center of discord and hate that legislation seems to keep in the public's face. They aren't converting people to be trans or pushing their 'trans agenda' on anyone. Why are you so afraid of them to target them? And who is next disabled individuals, people of color? Where does it stop once you've started? Governmentsanctioned hate opens the door for any kind of hate. Ignorant individuals see it as a pass to demean those who do not look like white cisgender heterosexual individuals. It is not the government's place to say who is acceptable and who is not. Don't let the discontent of a few, strip the rights of the vulnerable. Our children and our future deserve better than this. Every person is valid. The world is hard enough with hate being accepted and trotted out at a national level. Stop adding to the hard with unnecessary hateful bills, and channel your energy into something that improves Iowans' lives.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Trans people exist and should have the same rights as everyone else. Period. This has nothing to do with protecting women and children and everything to do with ignorance and hate. And the people who wrote this bill should look up Brown v. Board of Education if they are seriously trying to say that separate accommodations are not inherently unequal. Iowa is facing many real problems, legislators should focus on any of those rather than making up problems in order to bring suffering to very small minority of Iowans. Because let's face it, once this kind of precedent has been set, whose rights will they come for next?
02-26-2025
Stacy Schmidt [Private Citizen]
CON
Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. For those who are unaware, this is the motto for the state of Iowa. It is on the state seal and the state flag.HSB 242, the bill that would remove gender identity from Iowas Civil Rights code, is the legislative equivalent of burning the state flag and spitting in the face of our longstanding motto. For the first time in recent memory, this body is actively considering removing a protected class from our civil rights laws. Regardless of your opinion on issues of gender identity and expression, Iowans must ask themselves if they are ok with setting the precedent of reducing civil rights protections in our state. Once a legislative body starts taking rights and protections away from one group of people, everything else enumerated in the code becomes fair game. Where will the legislature and governor stop? Will we next see a bill removing age as a protected class, making it legal for employers to fire more experienced (read: more expensive) and older employees to make room for younger, less experienced employees who are willing to work for lower wages? Or will this body remove marital status as a protected class, making it legal to discriminate against unmarried pregnant people? Where does it stop?To those who say that these examples are exaggerations or would never happen, the only way to guarantee that is to STOP HSB 242 in its tracks so there will not be a precedent for removing a protected status from Iowas Civil Rights code.Additionally, this bill is yet another example of a solution in search of a problem. The inclusion of gender identity as a protected class within the Iowa code does not infringe upon or deny rights or liberties to anyone. Prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity actually protects ALL Iowans. It protects Iowans from being bullied, harassed, or otherwise discriminated against for not fitting neatly into specific views of what is or is not appropriate views that we know are fluid and change over time and most certainly are NOT universally agreed upon. It wasnt that long ago that men could be fired for having long hair or women could be required to wear skirts or dresses in the workplace. Our understanding and views of gender identity have evolved over time and continue to do so. This bill would enable differing standards based on individual opinion and open the door to arbitrary discrimination. In closing, I challenge this body and our governor do you want your legacy to be that of lawmakers who voted to withdraw civil rights protections for Iowans or one who upheld our states motto and worked to maintain the rights of ALL Iowans?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Iowa House File 583. This bill presents significant concerns regarding human rights, discrimination, and the promotion of hate and oppression, while also contradicting the values expressed in Iowas state code and motto, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.1. Violation of Human Rights:HF 583 undermines the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals by enforcing a narrow, biologically based definition of sex and gender. This restrictive approach disregards established medical and psychological understandings of gender identity, denying individuals the right to selfidentify and live authentically. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the right to equality and freedom from discrimination, rights that this bill infringes upon.2. Open to Discrimination:By removing gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, the bill creates a pathway for discrimination in employment, education, housing, and public accommodations. This exclusion leaves transgender and nonbinary individuals vulnerable to unfair treatment without legal recourse. It undermines the progress Iowa has made toward ensuring equality for all citizens.3. Promotion of Hate and Oppression:The bills language not only invalidates the identities of marginalized communities but also emboldens those who seek to marginalize and oppress. By codifying exclusionary definitions, SF 418 fosters an environment where prejudice can thrive, contradicting the inclusive spirit that should define our schools, workplaces, and public spaces.4. Contradiction of Iowa Code and Motto:The Iowa Civil Rights Act was designed to protect all citizens from discrimination, ensuring that every individual can participate fully in society. By stripping protections from genderdiverse individuals, HF 583 violates the intent of the states civil rights framework. Furthermore, the bill stands in direct opposition to Iowas proud motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Liberty and rights cannot be selectively applied; they must extend to all Iowans, regardless of gender identity.In conclusion, HF 583 is not only a step backward for civil rights in Iowa but also a direct affront to the values of equality and dignity that our state and nation hold dear. I urge legislators to reject this harmful bill and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, understanding, and respect for all citizens.
02-26-2025
Rose Rollenhagen []
CON
Transgenders have as much right to protection of their civil rights as anyone else. The reasons given for supporting this bill are weak and are seldom seen in real life. Stop wasting your time on cultural issues that have little or no effect on Iowans, especially when we have serious problems facing our state that affect all of us.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [St. Paul's United Methodist Church]
CON
People all over the country are looking at Iowa with shock as we could be the first state ever to remove civil rights from any protected group of people. We should be a welcoming, affirming state but unfortunately many citizens of our great state are hearing a clear message that there is no place for them in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Nathan Kaib [Private citizen]
CON
It is disappointing to see the party that champions freedom and liberty trying to remove civil rights protections from some of our citizens. I don't think anyone should lose their job or place of living over personal decisions around their own body and agency. It is also sad that in this period of high inflation and living expenses that this is where the energy of the legislature is going. How is this legislation going to make my grocery store trips and utility bills more affordable? The GOP has lost my future vote and confidence.
02-26-2025
Steve Frevert []
CON
I am vehemently against depriving ANY Iowan of their rights. End this idiocy now.
02-26-2025
Sarah Staskal []
CON
Reject HF 583. Every person deserves freedom to live freely without the fear of discrimination, no matter their gender identity.
02-26-2025
Scott Keele Kober [Iowa Annual Conference United Methodist Church]
CON
This bill takes away the rights of our neighbors.This bill supports a narrow and both scientifically and biblically inaccurate view that there are only two genders or sexes.Almost all the arguments I heard and saw in subcommittee and committee that supported this legislation were based in unfounded fears and a narrow Christian perspective.As a Christian, as an Iowan, those views don't represent me or my faith. As a United Methodist, I strongly believe in equal rights protections for all people (see United Methodist teaching below).Stand up for Iowans and vote NO on HF 583.Respectfully and prayerfully,Rev. Scott Keele KoberPictured Rocks District Superintendent(Northeast Iowa)Excerpts of United Methodist teaching:THE BOOK OF DISCIPLINEOFTHE UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH2020/2024SOCIAL PRINCIPLESBASIC RIGHTS AND FREEDOMSWe declare that all individuals, no matter their circumstances or social standing, are entitled to basic human rights and freedoms.These rights are grounded in Gods gracious act in creation (Genesis 1:27), and they are revealed fully in Jesus incarnation of divine love. As a church, we will work to protect these rights and freedoms within the church and to reform the structures of society to ensure that every human being can thrive.We condemn all attempts to deny individuals their basic rights or freedoms or to strip human beings of their inherent dignity and worth. We, therefore, reject within the church and wider society any act of discrimination, hatred, or violence directed against individuals or groups based on national origin, tribal affiliation, ethnicity, age, gender identity, disability status, economic condition, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or other any factors.I. Sexual Orientations and Gender IdentitiesBecause all people are of sacred worth and certain basic human rights are due to everyone, we are committed to supporting the equal rights, liberties, and protections of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We see clear issues of equality and justice in protecting the rightful claims of those with shared material resources, pensions, guardian relationships, mutual powers of attorney, and other lawful claims typically attendant to contractual relationships that involve shared contributions, responsibilities and liabilities, and equal protection before the law. Moreover, because in many countries sexual and gender minorities are disproportionately impacted by social stigmas, discrimination, coercion and violence, we call on churches, governments, businesses, and civic organizations to do all in their power to combat such unjust treatment and to promote equal rights and protections for all.
02-26-2025
Mary Wheelock [Public]
CON
Do not take away anyone's civil rights. You represent all Iowans not just the governor or a select few that claim to be Christian. God/Jesus blessed and said to take care of all people regardless of race, sex, religion or physical conditions.
02-26-2025
John Olsen [self]
CON
I am the father of a trans daughter. SF418 is a threat to my daughter's future. I am asking you to join me in this fight for my daughters legal existence in the state of Iowa. Please VOTE NO on SF418.1) Pg. 3, Lines 2530, removes the ability to have sex designation changed on a birth certificate. Lines 3133, the birth certificate states the sex designated at birth must be listed. Will those inspecting the ID believe it is a valid ID even if the picture matches the individual in front of them due to the inconsistency of the sex listed? This would be especially problematic when going through security at an airport. It also opens transgender individuals to discrimination by those examining their ID. This bill would make that allowed under law. 2) Rep. Holt, in his comments on Monday during the House Judiciary Committees discussion of the bill, stated that transgender individuals would still be protected under the Equal Protection clause of the Iowa Constitution. If this is true, then why are there any protected classes in the Iowa Civil Rights Act? I believe there are protected classes because people have been discriminated against due to the listed traits or beliefs listed there. Therefore, it is critical that gender identity remains a protected class. 3) Another major reason this bill is being pushed because the courts MIGHT rule against previous antitrans bills passed into law due to gender identity being a protected class. Why not just let the courts decide? Is there really a need to further discriminate against transgender individuals? 4) Regarding bathrooms, who would enforce these rules? If transgender individuals complied with this bill, there would still be men going into womens bathrooms. Many transgender men are indistinguishable from cisgender men. Will the cis women call the police because a man is in the bathroom, when in fact the transgender man is simply following the law as stated in this bill? If a transgender woman enters a mens room, who is most at risk? It is NOT the cisgender man, rather the transgender woman. 5) Another reason this bill is being pushed is the debate over transgender men participating in womens sports. There are other ways to deal with this issue than legally erasing the existence of transgender individuals. The two most important reasons to defeat this bill are:1) If passed, the State of Iowa would be the first state to have granted civil rights protections to a group and then take them away. 2) If passed, the State of Iowa would be endorsing the discrimination of transgender individuals because under the law of Iowa, they would NOT exist.
02-26-2025
Andrea Severson []
CON
Good guys don't take civil rights away. No one should be denied basic rights to access employment, housing and education. The only reason to remove civil rights protections is to allow for discrimination to be legal. As a Christian and a human being, I am appalled that leaders of my state are working to legalize hate and the dehumanization of people created and loved by God. This is not what the people of Iowa want.
02-26-2025
Emberlie Kyori []
CON
This bill isn't a judicial bill, it's an economics bill. But not a positive one definitely a negative one. This bill will remove a civil right that's been protected for years, and it will show Iowa isn't a safe place to be. Iowa is already leading in population drain. This bill will take us from 7th place to 1st. Iowa will finally be the first at something. First at removing a civil right and first at the largest population loss. Iowa will lose so many people due to this bill. With that Iowa will lose even more money. A state that once was growing financially and population a little over a decade ago is now becoming a husk of that. Tell me, when were the people on the right side of history the ones who removed rights from another? What does this bill do positively for the state of Iowa? What prospects does it bring? Cause all I can see is a negative impact. A negative financial impact and a negative human rights impact. Do better. I just wish I could say why I'm against this bill from my point of view. I wish I could talk about how hateful and discrimitory this bill is. But those who are for it don't see this as such, so I hope you can see why this bill will be bad for you, because you will unfortunately never see or refuse to see why this bill is bad for me.
02-26-2025
David Glenn-Burns []
CON
I share a heart felt plea to vote against legislation removing Gender Identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. As a 40+ year resident of Iowa, I am embarrassed by the heartlessness of this act. No one should have their rights taken away from them. For so many years, Iowa has been known as a state that values citizen rights. Our official state slogan/motto is "Our liberties we prize and rights we will maintain!" Upon moving here after graduating from seminary, I was impressed that Iowa actually seemed to live by that motto. Republicans and Democrats could collaborate for the common good of all Iowans. Over recent years, under a mostly GOP led government I have observed a narrowing influence and an ignoring of this motto. This is confusing to me because there really is nothing to debate! Trans people exist and always have! What you are really debating is whether you want to treat them like people or not. In my work as a pastor, I have come to know many people who are transgender individuals. They are beloved, wonderful children of God just as they are! They deserve to exist freely, the same as straight, white, cisgendered men (who seem to be driving a lot of the anger and resentment expressed in this bill). This is a moral issue. This is also about neighbors and family. Transgender Iowans are around us every day. They contribute to our communities and support our families. When it comes to earning a living, finding a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, I want our neighbors and family to succeed like the rest of us. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.Finally, as a person of faith, dedicating my professional career to studying and living by example the teachings of the Bible, this is a faith issue. I find it very confusing how people can justify discriminating against transgender individuals based on their interpretation of the Bible. Gods promise to care for all children of God is mentioned throughout the Bible. This means everyone should be treated as such. Including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination upholds Gods promise. To legislate based on a narrow interpretation of the Christian scriptures is inappropriate and dangerous. But if you are relying on scriptures, maybe read more than your favorite ones?Thank you.
02-26-2025
Katie Mohasci [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Please protect all Iowans, including those in our transgender community. They should have the same freedom and rights that I have!In my 30s, I lived in 3 other states (TC, VA, GA) and was always SO proud to call Iowa my home state! When the major flood hit Cedar Rapids and other communities, I was so proud to see the hardworking Iowans and leaders on our national news. When Iowa was one of the first states to legalize gay marriage, I was cheering on from Georgia.My husband, children, and I moved back to Iowa almost 12 years ago and I do not like the direction we are headed. Please lead our great state with love, kindness, and passion.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a teacher of high school students I oppose this legislation. I see first hand how even the proposal of this negatively affects the mental health of all our children, especially our trans community. We should be should protecting and respecting not threatening and risking anyones civil rights.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Do not remove civil rights protections from any group of people from Iowa law. This is morally, spiritually, and ethically WRONG to do so. ALL Iowans must share in protections under the law, with no "fully protected" and "others partially protected.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Trans people will always exist, this rhetoric is dangerous and will hurt people. Everyone deserves to live this life as authentically as possible. There is also no room for intersex people who have no choice in how they are born and deserve to present themselves however they feel comfortable
02-26-2025
Bruce Nesmith []
CON
The value of freedom in America means we should proceed with extreme caution before we withdraw civil rights protections from any group. The threshold of harm from including transgendered people has not been met. Their only offense is being unpopular with certain people. In a state that is aging, that is struggling to attract and retain workers, we cannot afford to declare any group of people to be outcasts. But even if we were flush with people, it would still be ethically wrong.
02-26-2025
Mary Ferring []
CON
Please say no to this travesty. Vote no on this bill.
02-26-2025
Alejandro Alfaro-Santiz [Trinity Las Americas United Methodist Church]
CON
As a person of faith, I have experienced that everyone is of equal value, regardless of race, immigration status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. I serve in my congregation queer and trans people, and they are amazing, caring and loving human beings. They make our church, our city and our state better and, with the constitution the way it is now, trans people still experience a lot of discrimination and harassment. If this bill were to pass, our trans and non binary siblings will experience more harm. That is why I am against this bill and invite you to reject it.
02-26-2025
Melinda Stonebraker []
CON
I do not support HF 583. Any attempt to remove rights and protections from any person or group of people should be opposed. Each of us are people of sacred worth and should be able to live free of discrimination, particularly legallysanctioned discrimination.I am particularly bothered by the code's statements: "The term 'equal' does not mean 'same' or 'identical' and "Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal." We have tried separate but equal before in the segregated South, and history has not judged it well, and rightly so.I'm not concerned about a few taxpayer expenditures for genderaffirming care provided by Medicaid. There are many expenditures that I may not agree with in government. I don't even agree with all our household expenditures! Saving money at the expense of the health and wellbeing of Iowans, and at the expense of civil rights, is a cost that is much too great for my conscience. "Common sense" is an idol these days. Our common sense rejects the common good of all and doesn't even make sense in cases like this. I pray that kindness and dignity will prevail in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Kathy Baker [United Methodist Church]
CON
I ask you to vote against the proposed change to our Iowa Civil Rights Act. As a United Methodist, we have long held that because all people are of sacred worth and certain basic human rights are due to everyone, we are committed to supporting the equal rights, liberties, and protections of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity moreover, because in many countries sexual and gender minorities are disproportionately impacted by social stigmas, discrimination, coercion and violence, we call on churches, governments, businesses, and civic organizations to do all in their power to combat such unjust treatment and to promote equal rights and protections for all. (P 163, Basic Rights and Freedoms, I., 2020/2024 Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church).This proposed change would be a step backwards and would be an act that condoned discrimination against people with a different sexual orientation than the majority. I support and ask the legislature to support the equal rights of all Iowans and vote no to this change to our Iowa Civil Rights Act.
02-26-2025
Justin Scott []
CON
For a state that claims to uphold fairness, this bill is anything but. Understanding basic human rights seems to be lost on the proponents of this measure. Clearly, stripping rights from an entire group of people isnt the way to move Iowa forward. Knowing that this bill is fueled by weaponized religion and toxic Christianity is truly disturbing. Instead of advocating for love and compassion, some are using heartless Christian Nationalism to push dangerous agendas. Opposition to this bill should be overwhelming, so I appreciate those brave enough to speak out. What bills like this lead to is further denying the humanity of our neighbors just because they dont fit into your narrow worldview. As a state, we need to stand up for whats right, not for discriminatory agendas.Governor Reynolds and Iowa Republicans: this bill doesnt represent Iowas values or the spirit of unity. Open your eyes to the harm it will cause, and do the right thing. Please, do not allow these heartless Christian Nationalists to push this attack on Iowans forward.
02-26-2025
Jane Nesmith []
CON
Iowans respect the rights of others. It is in our state motto! Trans people make up 1% of our population, so I only know a few of them. But the trans people I know are work colleagues, students and former students, and NEIGHBORS. Transgender people are not a threat to anyone. If anything, THEY face violence and discrimination every day (transphobia is real!). That's why they are included in Civil Rights bills.They, like us, are children of God, and God wants me to care for them, especially because their lives are difficult in a society that does not value them. Please do NOT SUPPORT this hateful bill.
02-26-2025
Tamara Danzl []
CON
HF583 is a horrible piece of legislation that creates harm for Iowans. I do not want human rights denied my fellow residents. This is from the playbook of Jim Crow laws and Neds to be stopped.
02-26-2025
Ashley Larson [Mind & Spirit Counseling Center]
CON
Trans rights are human rights. This bill is unconstitutional and harmful to our Trans community. Do better, Iowa.
02-26-2025
Tiffany Shelton []
CON
I am an Iowan , with a Trans son. This legislation directly impacts my family. Why does my son get less rights? He should be able to live in a state that supports his right to work,go to school,receive medical care. This legislation makes zero sense. My son is HUMAN. Trans rights are human rights. I used to be proud of living in Iowa. If you pass this bill you leave out a huge community of people( voters) who aim to make Iowa a great place to live. If we start any precedence of taking away rights, it doesn't just end with Trans. Please think about what this does to the people who pay your salaries...
02-26-2025
Tom Resnick []
CON
I am a proud Iowan, born and raised, and I believe in core American values like freedom, equality, and limited government involvement. Our state motto"Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain"shows that all Iowans should be able to work hard, support their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference. This is why I have serious concerns about HF 583. The bill would create new government rules that could lead to discrimination, allowing the state to decide who gets opportunities based on personal characteristics instead of ability.In my lifetime, Ive seen Iowa demonstrate its commitment to leading the nation in civil rights. We should continue to make sure our laws protect personal freedoms, not take them away. This bill claims to protect women, though in reality it could have harmful effects leading to invasive checks on people's identities, causing harm to women and girls by subjecting them to unwanted attention, harassment, and embarrassment just based on how they look. Our government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.Please, oppose HF 583. Continue Iowas proud tradition of freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [United Methodist Church]
CON
I urge you to vote against removing "gender identity" from HF383 and HF 418 because I believe every person, regardless of gender identity has the right to protection with regard to housing, employment, wages, credit, education, and everything else. We are all created in the image of God and are equally valued.
02-26-2025
Eloise M. Cranke [Self]
CON
As a person of faith I strongly oppose HB 583, a bill that would remove transgender persons from the Iowa Civil Rights Act and other areas of the Iowa Code. This would create immeasurable harm to many Iowans. It would result in allowing discrimination against transgender Iowans in the areas of education, housing, public access, employment and more. How unfair and cruel! Transgender persons should have the same rights in these areas as all other people. Those of us who are Christians are called to love ALL people, which includes gay, straight, transgenderALL people. We show that love by making sure they are guaranteed the same civil rights as others. I strongly urge you to vote NO on HB 583.
02-26-2025
Julien Rouse [Grace United Methodist Church]
CON
As a trans Iowan, my rights and wellbeing are directly threatened by this unnecessary and hurtful bill. I'm a parent, a fulltime church employee, a college graduate with a master's degree, and an active volunteer within my community. I love my home but fear that I and my family will no longer be welcome in Iowa. Trans people face discrimination on a daily basis. Please do not remove what protections we have on the basis of unfounded fear, bigotry, and scapegoating. I am not a threat. I simply want to raise my child, better my community, and live my life.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen ]
CON
We cannot improve anyones life in Iowa by discriminating against vulnerable groups of our own citizens. Transgender citizens of Iowa deserve for gender identity to continue to be a protected civil right. This does not harm people who are not transgender but it will greatly hurt those citizens who are transgender and it will open them up to discrimination. It is shameful and an overreach that our government would suggest removing civil rights, causing Iowan citizens to feel unwelcome and threatened in their home state. It would not improve anything for anyone living in this state & it is incredibly shameful for Iowa to be known as a state that removes civil rights. We are greatly opposed to HF 583.
02-26-2025
Katie Curtis []
CON
I am opposed to this bill. It is abhorrent to move HF 583 forward. Our state is so much better than this. Please take the number of oppositions seriously, it is your duty to work on behalf of your constituents and we do NOT want to strip anyone of their civil rights.
02-26-2025
William Clymer [St. Paul's UMC Cedar Rapids]
CON
This list highlights only a fraction of the many groups throughout history that have faced civil rights violations. With the passage of this bill, the state Iowa will be included in this list. A list that will last for eternity.1. Racial & Ethnic GroupsAfrican Americans (United States) Enslaved, denied citizenship, subjected to segregation (Jim Crow laws), and voter suppression.Indigenous Peoples (Worldwide) Forced removal from land, denied citizenship, and faced systemic discrimination (e.g., Native Americans in the U.S., Aboriginal Australians, First Nations in Canada).Jewish People (Various Regions) Expelled, persecuted, and subjected to genocide (e.g., Holocaust, Spanish Inquisition, Russian Pogroms).Roma (Gypsies) (Europe) Marginalized, forcibly sterilized, and targeted by Nazi Germany.Chinese Immigrants (United States) Denied citizenship and subjected to exclusionary laws (e.g., Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882).2. WomenWomen (Global) Historically denied voting rights, property ownership, education, and workplace equality (e.g., Suffragette movement, lack of legal rights in many countries).3. LGBTQ+ CommunityLGBTQ+ Individuals (Global) Criminalized, denied marriage rights, and subjected to discrimination (e.g., Stonewall Riots, persecution in Nazi Germany, antiLGBTQ laws in many modern nations).4. Religious GroupsCatholics (United Kingdom & Ireland) Restricted from voting, holding office, and land ownership (Penal Laws).Muslims in Spain (Reconquista) Forced conversion, expulsion, or execution.Bahais (Iran) Denied basic rights, including access to education and government jobs.5. Political Groups & DissidentsSoviet Dissidents (USSR) Imprisoned, exiled, or executed for opposing the regime.Apartheid Opponents (South Africa) Black South Africans denied political participation and basic rights under apartheid.Japanese Americans (United States, WWII) Interned in camps and had property confiscated.6. People with DisabilitiesDisabled Individuals (Various Regions) Institutionalized, forcibly sterilized, and denied employment or education (e.g., Nazi Germanys Aktion T4 program).
02-26-2025
Ellie Willhoit []
CON
02-26-2025
Zoie Fortson []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [United Methodist Church]
CON
I urge you not to pass this bill as it will have an adverse effect on so many residents of the state of Iowa. I personally have family members and friends who are scared to death right now of the ramifications this bill is going to invoke on them. We are all human beings in God's eyes regardless of our gender, race, orientation or any other phrases you can attach to us and we are all loved by God regardless. I am fearful for my family member and others as to what actions they will take personally if this bill is passed up to and including suicide. Please consider seriously and prayerfully your decision on this act and consider the fact that you too may have family and friends that will be affected by your actions.
02-26-2025
Tricia landess [Retired]
CON
Do not pass thisHateful bill
02-26-2025
Bryce Smith [Adel Family Fun Center]
CON
The bill presented before us directly, negatively impacts my life as an Iowan, lifelong resident of Adel, Iowa, graduate of Iowas public education systems and higher education universities, a small business owner, property owner and community volunteer.This bill directly impacts my business, a business I have owned for over 10 years now, a business that has been in operations for nearly 65 years. During COVID my business suffered great losses and I was fortunate enough to find vital financial resources and banking needs to keep our business open, under these changes to the Iowa Civil Rights Act, a bank in Iowa could have denied me these resources for simply no reason other than the appearance that I might be apart of the LGBTQ+ community. It directly impacts my marriage and personal family life. I married my life partner in 2017 surrounded by loved ones right here in Iowa. We are tax paying, small business owners who hire dozens of employees, pay hundreds of thousands in taxes each year and care deeply about our community we live in. This bill impacts how financial instructions, educational, healthcare facilities and more view me and treat me. Not to mention my potential customers, employees and fellow Iowans.Changing the Iowa Civil Rights Act is a very dangerous precedence. If a select few Iowans can change dramatic legislation in a matter of hours from closed door rooms in a public building, that opens the door to discrimination, what is next? Under the current Iowa Civil Rights Act, my religious beliefs and practices are protected, but when will that change? Is that next to change? Im a proud Iowan, hard working small business owner, tax paying homeowner, who cares deeply about my fellow citizens, this bill serves no positive future for any Iowan.
02-26-2025
Hannah Simpson []
CON
Vote No. Keep the state of Iowa the welcoming and loving state of my youth. Every Iowan deserves to be loved and respected.
02-26-2025
CJ Klenske []
CON
The legislature needs to care for Iowans, protecting their rights, not taking them away.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Do not pass this hateful, despicable bill!
02-26-2025
Vicki Fisher []
CON
I support retaining protections for our trans neighbors. Being trans is not a threat. Discrimination based on gender identity does not build a better Iowa and should not be permitted in our states. Trans people deserve the same rights as cis members of our community.Targeting our trans neighbors only perpetuates hate and hateful stories.
02-26-2025
Paula Baker []
CON
02-26-2025
Vanessa Renaud [Concerned citizen ]
CON
Please vote NO. We should not be taking civil rights away from ANY group of individuals. That is cruel and dehumanizing. I'm opposed to this bill.
02-26-2025
Sharon Falduto [self]
CON
I am against this hateful bill that will cause Iowa to be the first state to remove civil rights from a class of people. For the past 18 years, transgender Iowans have had civil rights, and this has harmed absolutely no one. This bill is hateful and bigoted and solves no problems. This will continue the brain drain of youth from our state; why would they want to live somewhere in which they and their friends are openly discriminated against? We were so proud of maintaining our rights that we put it on our state flag. Taking away civil rights is anathema to Iowan values.
02-26-2025
Diana Ford []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Larry Harris [Personal]
CON
It is morally wrong to take away fundamental human rights.
02-26-2025
Harrison Curnin-Mitchell [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Becky Canovan []
CON
02-26-2025
Sam Drella Helmer [.]
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one group's civil rights is a risk to everyone's civil rights. The proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable population. We should be focusing on increasing rights, rather than stripping them away. Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.
02-26-2025
Danny Fairchild []
CON
Trans people living exercising their inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are NOT the problem. The problem are legislators trying to violate those inalienable rights and the people who support them. It's unAmerican.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen ]
CON
Please do not strip LGBTQ+ people from protection from discrimination. These are the most vulnerable people in our society. Hate is directed at them every day. They have existed throughout time, you cannot erase them with this hateful legislation
02-26-2025
Julie Sands []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583! Erasing protections already granted for gender and gender identity from law does not miraculously stop them from existing. Removing these protections and rights endangers peopleyouth and adults. It favors organizations, institutions, and corporations over the individual. It turns a blind eye to discrimination that occurs, just as it had before protections were written into law. Please vote against HF 583.
02-26-2025
Miki Robinson [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Tanya Roethler [Self]
CON
I am a constituent from Dubuque, Iowa, and I firmly believe that this bill is wrong and should not pass. It infringes on the rights of many people in the state of Iowa. Trans people are people and they deserve rights just as everyone else does.
02-26-2025
Amber Gustafson [Parent]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Kayla Zopfi []
CON
I am in deep opposition to this bill as a seminarian at Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, and I pray that lawmakers' hearts are softened towards the civil liberties of precious members of this state, country, and world who reflect the vastness of God's good creation.
02-26-2025
Rich Russell []
CON
EVERY Iowan should be treated fairly!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Every Iowan deserves to be treated fairly without fear of discrimination. This bill is harmful to some Iowans.
02-26-2025
Amy Jones [NA]
CON
Iowa needs to be a place where people can live their lives without government overreach. Transgender people exist, and this discriminatory and hateful legislation makes them second class citizens.
02-26-2025
Kathleen Tupker [N/A]
CON
Should the bill pass and be signed into law, lowa would become the first state in the nation to remove a protected class from a state's civil rights act, a legal expert says.In addition to removing gender identity as a protected class in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, the bill would make a range of changes to state law, including requiring birth certificates to reflect an Iowan's sex at birth and redefining "sex" to mean "the state of being either male or female as observed or clinically verified at birth."NO ONE should have their rights taken away.
02-26-2025
William Soloy []
CON
This is a bill that would take freedom and rights away from Iowans. It's protecting no one. If one is a Christian and ignores the central themes of protecting the vulnerable and welcoming, with love, those most in need of support and protection, one needs to do some real soul searching. If interested, please read Adam Russell Taylor's Sojourners article, "Christians Should Denounce AntiTrans Laws, Not Write Them." Additionally, I'd like to appeal to those in the Republican party who think of themselves as the party of freedom and small government. We live in a state and a country wherein we can disagree with a person's choices, presentation, and beliefs and still welcome them to the table, as citizens, Americans, Iowans. This in antithetical to "the party of freedom."Freedom is a central, laudable goal. As is love and compassion. In the spirit of Christianity and freedom, you should reject this bill and stand up for the rights and freedoms of the people you represent. Please get this right.
02-26-2025
Maggie Ferrentino []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583 and urge legislators to vote against it. I was so proud to move to Iowa in 2010 because it had such a long history of being a leader in progressive civil rights. I am not proud of this bill and other legislation designed to take away hard fought rights from historically marginalized communities. Please do what you can to keep Iowa from being a leader in minimizing civil rights!
02-26-2025
Cindy Gunther [Taxpayer]
CON
02-26-2025
Sam Prell [N/A]
CON
I stand today in strong opposition to House File 583. This bill is not only unnecessary and cruelit is unenforceable.How exactly would we implement a law like this? Will we have bathroom police checking IDs at the door? Is an M or an F on a drivers license enough to determine who belongs where? Should Iowans carry their birth certificates just to use a public restroom? These questions may sound absurdand so is this bill.This is not the work Iowans sent you here to do. Families across this state are struggling with real issuesrising grocery prices, unaffordable housing, the cost of healthcare. But instead of addressing these problems, we are debating a law that will solve nothing, hurt your constituents, and waste taxpayer time and money.Let me be clear: your duty as lawmakers is to serve all Iowans, not just those who share your political views. Every Iowan deserves dignity, fairness, and equal protection under the law.I urge you to reject this bill, and get back to work that will help the people and state you are elected to represent.Thank you.
02-26-2025
Christine Darr []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Please do not legislate hate. Allowing this bill to pass will only hurt Iowans. It does nothing to help anyone.
02-26-2025
Holly Thayer []
CON
I urge all legislators to vote NO on this bill. Ive heard the argument that this bill wont actually take anyones rights away, and I implore our representatives to scratch past the surface of this flimsy argument and take responsibility for protecting Iowans. This bill DOES remove and weaken protections specifically for trans, nonbinary, and intersex Iowans. In our current climate, someone perceived as transgender is more likely to face discrimination than someone perceived as cisgender. To put a finer point on it, transgender Iowans are more likely to face discrimination specifically because of peoples genderidentityrelated perceptions. If gender identity doesnt exist as a protected class, there will be no specific protection for this sort of attack. That is the precise right that will be lost. I feel like this should be obvious, but I want to state it very clearly, since arguments are circulating to the contrary. Even if the concept of being transgender is confusing to you, or if it makes you uncomfortable, you can and should still stand up for basic human rights. Whether youre a Democrat or a Republican, you can draw the line and refuse to take peoples rights away. We do not need to be in perfect alignment to care for one another. And if human rights alone arent compelling enough, consider the impact this legislation would have on business and employment in Iowa. Transgender people, and even those who fear being perceived as transgender, will not feel safe working and living in this state. They will fear discrimination, and they will fear the open hostility (and potentially violence) that this legislation would surely exacerbate. Jobs will go unfilled, and people will leave. Please do the right thing and put this ugly bill to a stop.
02-26-2025
Rosanne Fairweather []
CON
This is not about womens safety. It is about taking away rights. What happened to Freedom to Flourish? Is this meant for only certain individuals?The LBGQT+ community has caused no harm to others and does not deserve restrictions on their rights and safety. THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF HARM TO OTHERS. By denying their rights only shows fear of what you dont understand and lack of empathy to try. There are no records of women being harmed by transgenders. Women are continually threatened and harmed by straight men. If you really wanted to protect women you would be passing the law that makes consequences to Sexual Groping much tougher. Sending a message to predators to stop and instead of a slight pat on the back of the hand. Thats what real legislation looks like.By limiting any one persons freedoms to flourish limits the state. We will continue to lose good people and there will be consequences to these actions. Choose to protect all Iowans and vote no to House File 583.
02-26-2025
Erin Hytrek []
CON
Stop terrorizing the people of Iowa. Stop thinking about other peoples genitals. That is weird, deviant behavior. Do your jobs and clean up our water, fund our PUBLIC schools, fund our public libraries, and help provide childcare, housing, and healthcare to Iowans in need. Stop with this ridiculous legislation none of your constituents want.
02-26-2025
Beth []
CON
We will always exist. Iowa should not legislate hate just because our legislature Republicans do not understand something. It's not only unprofessional but it is morally wrong. If you think by making us illegal that we will disappear then you ate sorely mistaken. Iowans do not want this. Spend your time doing actually useful things for our state like addressing rising cancer rates and lack of food security for our citizens.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Every single person in Iowa, and the United States, deserves to be treated with respect regardless of gender identity, religion, or race. As a lifetime Iowan, I strongly oppose this bill and all that it stands for. Iowa is for everyone and we should have laws that protect every individual here from hate. Trans people will always exist and stripping them from their civil rights will only encourage hatred. The republicans supporting this bill claim to be Christian. There is NOTHING Christlike about this bill. Nowhere in the bible did Jesus make rules/laws against people who did not agree with Him. He loved them and encouraged others to do the same. I am asking the representatives in Iowa to follow the way of Jesus and love ALL people, especially the trans and LGBTQ community.
02-26-2025
Sheila Brewer []
CON
There is actual scientific evidence backing gender that does not conform with a strict male or female gender standard. There are genetic factors that can influence this also. Even so, I am firmly against this bill or any other that takes away right of citizens.
02-26-2025
Amy Moore [N/A]
CON
Freedoms we prize and cherish? This seems to be the opposite! Each and every person deserves the same treatment, not be part of an unprotected class. This is a NO from an Iowa taxpayer and resident.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Reject HF 583Vote NO
02-26-2025
Christine Evanschwartz []
CON
Transgender Iowans friends, coworkers, neighbors are humans who deserve our care and protection from discrimination! Dont make Iowa the worst state in the nation! Show you care for all people
02-26-2025
Alison Dix [Asbury United Methodist Church ]
CON
Please do not pass this law, I stand as a Iowan, lesbian and woman with all my transgender siblings. Pastor Alison Dix
02-26-2025
Lucket kiche [Iowa city Pride]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Stop trying to strip rights from Iowans! Targeting transgender members of our community is unacceptable. "Our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain" that motto is for all Iowans, not just cisgender Iowans.
02-26-2025
Kenneth D Feeney []
CON
This would over turn established law in our state and hurt a vital part of our population. The GOP us to be a party of liberty and personal libertarian values. What happen? You interfere with every part of our lives now. I am sorely displeased.
02-26-2025
Ryan Keeley []
CON
Hello,I am a 28 year old transgender man who was born and raised here in Iowa. I would like an opportunity to speak about my life and experiences in an effort shed light on how I and people like me deserve equal civil rights protections under state law. Please consider me for a short time slot to speak. Thank you, Ryan
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a person of faith, an educator, and a citizen of Iowa, I ask you to reject this bill for the following reasons: 1. Biologically speaking, there simply are more than two sexes. It is counterfactual to suggest otherwise. It is not the purview of the government to reduce the diversity of human bodies into false binary categories. 2. Being intersex is not a disability. Any hardship that comes from being intersex is due to society's stigmas and legal barriers to full acceptance and protection, not from the fact of being intersex.3. It is an egregious overreach of the government to attempt to legislate the ways in which citizens inhabit their own bodies as gendered people. 4. Removing gender identity from the list of protected classes is dangerous. Transgender and nonbinary people are at increased risk for assault, murder, and suicide. Removing "gender identity" from the list of protected classes leaves trans and nonbinary people increasingly vulnerable to homelessness, financial hardship, inability to thrive physically and mentally in school, and other forms of discrimination. Again, I am against this bill and encourage you to see that it false to pass.
02-26-2025
Mary Oneyear []
CON
As a proud Iowan, I believe in the fundamental American values of freedom, fairness, and limited government overreach. Our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainreflects the belief that all Iowans should have the opportunity to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference.Thats why I have serious concerns about HF 583. This bill would create new government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has long been a leader in civil rights, and we should be ensuring that our laws protect personal freedom, not restrict it.Furthermore, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it could have unintended consequences. It may encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.I urge you to oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas legacy as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-26-2025
Elli Decker []
CON
As a Cedar Rapids citizen, a lifelong Iowan, and a public servant working in the nonprofit mental health field, I urge you to vote no on this bill. We must not go backward by removing people's civil rights. This will be detrimental to Iowa's citizens and economy. This is also a waste of public tax dollars. As Iowans, we pay state taxes so that you will improve our lives, not take away our rights. Why are you wasting our money on this when you could be focusing on real issues like public education, infrastructure, clean water, health care worker shortages, and the cost of living crisis? Iowa Republicans' obsession with the transgender community is harmful to every Iowan, and frankly, it's weird to care this much about the sex organs of strangers! The Iowa I grew up in was so much better than this MAGA echo chamber we seem to be living in now. Do better, Iowa.
02-26-2025
Amy ORourke []
CON
02-26-2025
Jessica Saul [n/a]
CON
I am absolutely opposed to this despicable and hateful legislation. I will never support efforts to harm Iowans. Ever.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Trans people are just people and they DESERVE to live here like you and me. Stop taking civil rights away from Iowans!!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Iowa should be a place that is welcoming to everyone. This bill is discriminatory and goes against what we should stand for. All individuals deserve to be treated equally and have fair opportunities for success. Trans and queer people will always exist and no law will change that fact. Instead of making the lives of vulnerable groups harder, the Iowa government should be focusing on REAL issues.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [citizen]
CON
please vote no!!!
02-26-2025
(Donovan) â??Deeâ?� Bosold []
CON
Do NOT allow this legislation to pass through committee, nor allow it to pass a floor vote in the Iowa House. The Iowa Legislature should be expanding protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, NEVER limiting or removing civil rights protections. Oppose all legislation targeting marginalized groups, present and future!
02-26-2025
Lana Williams []
CON
I oppose HF 583 because civil rights should protect all Iowans, including those of diverse gender identities. Removing these protections undermines the dignity and equality of our neighbors, coworkers, and family members. Every person deserves to live free from discrimination, and rolling back these rights sets a dangerous precedent that weakens the core values of justice and fairness for all. I urge lawmakers to uphold the Iowa Civil Rights Act as it standsto ensure that every Iowan is treated with the respect and protection they deserve.
02-26-2025
Mark & Shirley Elliott []
CON
We rise to add our voice in objecting to this hate and fear driven legislation. It does not reflect the values of the Iowa in which we have lived these past seven decades and is an affront to all compassionate souls that know if you remove the rights of the few you undermine the rights of the many. Contrary to the thinly veiled excuse for intolerance we are hearing women's rights are not preserved when the rights of others are diminished in there name.
02-26-2025
MICHELE PALMER []
CON
Please oppose this bill/ I completely disagree with this! If we start to unprotected people who are already marginalized what does this mean for our country? Our families? Diversity? Not everyone is so lucky as to be born white and heterosexual. And if you are a personal of color, different than a Christian religion in America, have a minority sexual orientation, etcThen we need to be recognize protect and have the same rights without discrimination stop . If we get the ball rolling in this direction we are stepping back in time rather than opening posssivility for all people, gender, religion, sexual orientation and race to be seen heard and valued we protect the voices of those that cannot speak up. Please
02-26-2025
Kathy Martin []
CON
As a compassionate human being, parent, grandparent, and Christian pastor I strongly urge the defeat of HF 583 and SF 418 currently being considered before the Iowa House and Senate. Honestly, I am appalled that such legislation has even been proposed. In seeking to remove the rights of some of the citizens of our state, it seems to me that you are denying their very existence as human beings, created in the image of their Maker. Shame on you. Please don't take us back to the days in this country when discrimination was common practice, and humanity denied. Again, shame on you for even proposing to take away a human person's right to exist. Defeat HF 583 and SF 418.
02-26-2025
Alexis Healey []
CON
This is a disgrace. This is cruel.
02-26-2025
Katherine Daganaar []
CON
I want to start that I am a Christian, married to a pastor and I am against this bill. Too much time, money and resources are waisted trying tod incriminate against a group that is already at such a high risk to experience violence. I don't have to be Trans or understand it to be compassionate and to believe that every human deserves equal protection under the law. Jesus didn't come and discriminate. The Bible has a lot to say about justice and mercy and the leaders who refuse to act in such ways. Maybe my voice means nothing to those who have already made up their minds. But I will not be silent on protecting the vulnerable and I am ashamed and disheartened at those who think legislating their own morality is ever okay. So how about we get to doing the real work of feeding the hungry and ensuring the right to life of every citizen.
02-26-2025
JD Robertson []
CON
This legislation is pure hatred. Queer and transgender persons have existed throughout history. No amount of neonazi laws will legislate them out of existence. Im tired of seeing our government time and money being wasted on nonissues, issues that are created only to rally conservatives for political power. This bill is tapping into the worst misogyny and queerphobia that exists. Trans/Queer people pose no threats to our public/state. These individuals simply want to live their life as themselves. These laws are only about limiting their visibility to make queerphobic people comfortable by limiting visibility. Where will this stop. Will you next come for cisgendered queers? Will you revert 100 years of desegregation and come for people of color? oh wait you already are!Its time to stop these fake witch hunts and focus on the true problems. The unconstitutional limits on our publically elected state auditors office. The spending of public money on private religious schools. The lack of adequate funding of public education. The impending state Medicaid crisis when the federal government cuts benefits.
02-26-2025
Cecillia coates [Concerned citizen]
CON
Please do NOT pass bill HF583 Consider the Constitutional guaranteed rights of all citizens. Consider that the people you will harm are hardworking, loving ,taxes paying members of society. They are fa.ily members, spouses and parents who deserve the right to live their lives which are protected by the Consitution of the USA. They should not have to live in fear of losing what they have worked hard to ensure for a happy productive life.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Pleggenkuhle]
CON
As a lifelong United Methodist and advocate for the civil rights and sacred worth of all people, it is impossible for me to think that any legislator would wish to take away another human beings sanctity and safety. Please vote against this ungodly law. Thank you!!!
02-26-2025
Terry Pearce [none]
PRO
I support this legislation. It is based on common sense and biologic reasoning that there is only male and female identification of human species. Anything beyond that only creates confusion and an attempt to divide society into a tribal system to perpetuate hostilities of one group against another that can only result in chaos. It is ironic that people that ignore the biological reasoning that all of humanity is either male or female claim to be Progressive but in reality it is the most Regressive ideology in society . They want to separate every one into groups which is the reason that the Founders of this great Country, USA , formed our government as a REPUBLIC and not a Democracy designed to protect minorities from oppression of the majority. We are all created with differences but should be able to agree that we are humans and created as either male or female in order to recreate the human race .
02-26-2025
Elizabeth M Tyler [Myself]
CON
All Iowans deserve to be protected. Our state is for everyone and should continue to be. As our flag proudly proclaims, "Our freedoms we prize, our rights we will maintain!"
02-26-2025
Jennifer Mavin []
CON
I do NOT support this bill and its targeted removal of civil rights protections for Trans Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Some of my talking points will include purpose of government, weights and scales, standards of units, definitions of sex and gender. I'm coming in the spirit of Grace and truth.
02-26-2025
Abigail Brown []
CON
As an attorney, I know how important this law is for the citizens of Iowa. A person should not be fired because they choose to identify as a different gender than you. You can choose not to like it, you can choose not to agree with it, but you dont get to impose your own values and beliefs on another person.
02-26-2025
Megan Hodges []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this legislation. We need to keep protections in place to prevent discrimination.
02-26-2025
Tracy Beck Kruger []
CON
02-26-2025
Wendy DeCora []
CON
I vehemently oppose HF 583. It runs counter to everything I know about Iowa as someone who was born and has lived here for 48 years. We prize our liberties and maintain our rights, or at least we used to. Criminalizing the existence of a very small minority of our citizens is just plain wrong. The Iowa I grew up in was a place that loved their neighbors and left people alone. We used to lead the country on civil rights issues and now a small group of politicians want to enforce their backward and narrow views on our entire state. Do not stand with these cowards. Protect our rights!
02-26-2025
Jennifer Pellant []
CON
This bill is ridiculous and shameful. The Iowa legislature should not be in the business of taking rights away from its citizens. Leave trans people alone! Human rights are for ALL humans. Do something to help Iowans for a change work on raising wages, providing better healthcare, funding our public schools, or lowering the cost of living. There are a lot of things Iowans need help with. Losing their constitutional rights isn't one of them.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is hateful. This is not the Iowa I have lived in for 20+ years. Why are our lawmakers trying to hurt people who already have struggles? Is that what Jesus Christ would do? What kind of person who calls themselves a Christian would try to purposely hurt someone who is just trying to live their life on their own terms? Did none of the socalled Christian lawmakers read the parable of the Good Samaritan? "If ye have done it unto the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me". You were elected to help people, not hurt them, and this lifelong Christian is disgusted by this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
ALL people are created by God and of sacred worth. Basic human rights, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are due to EVERYONE and should be protected by our government. Do not make Iowa a place where hatred and discrimination is accepted. We are better than this!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am against this bill. LGBTQ rights are human rights. We should not be taking away an individuals civil rights.
02-26-2025
Callie Lucille Biernan []
CON
I'm a 67 yearold lifelong Iowan who feels my life as a transgender woman is being threatened by legislation based on ignorance and bigotry. This bill is insolent, cruel, and normalizes statesponsored discrimination. The Iowa Legislature is supposed to protect my rights, not take them away.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Sara Hofer [Iowa Citizen]
CON
Stop discriminating against people!
02-26-2025
Susan Wickham []
CON
As a 76yearold woman and a lifelong Iowan, I am committed to upholding equal rights for ALL of our citizens. I take "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" seriously. Removing civil rights protections for transgender Iowans in the Iowa Code will not erase them from the state, but it will make their lives hell as they apply for jobs, attempt to rent or buy homeseven enter business establishments. As for the argument regarding sports participation, honestly, how many males would undergo sexchange surgery to gain a competitive edge on a volleyball team? There must be more reasonable ways to address the sports issue than removing all legal protections for this group.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Im opposed to this cruel and senseless bill. Transgender youth are twice as likely as their peers to enter the foster care system. 44 percent of LGBTQ+ youth in state custody report they were removed, ran away, or were thrown out of their home for reasons directly related to their identity. (Childrens rights.org). Too many LGBTQ+ youth come out to family members only to face rejection, hatred, and violence. Those facing the most extreme levels of family rejection and maltreatment are often forced out of their homes, or will run away, becoming homeless or entering the foster care system. Its bad enough that these kids face discrimination and violence at home. However for legislators to legalize discrimination is reprehensible. We have a responsibility to protect all individuals from discrimination. Justice for all, not justice for some.
02-26-2025
maille sheerin [student]
CON
how does a person you do not know personally affect your life so much that you have to tell them what they can or cannot do. Let people live happily. LGBTQ+, BIPOC, minorities, immigrants, women, etc deserve the same rights as an average white male.
02-26-2025
Camille Adams []
CON
This bill would open the door for open discrimination and is harmful to all Iowans, not just transgender people. No one should have their civil rights stripped away.
02-26-2025
Kendra Haug [N/A]
CON
This is a waste of time and tax dollars for something that is not an issue. Trans people are literally one percent ONE PERCENT in the population. Do you know what is an issue in Iowa? Falling education performance, 2nd highest for new cancer cases in the US, worst bridges in the entire US, 15% of our children hungry, 33% of women in an OBGYN desert. Focus on stuff that will HELP Iowans survive, not this culture war garbage that is straight out of Hitlers playbook. Shame on anyone who supports this.
02-26-2025
Renee Thomas []
CON
Every Iowan is person and needs to have the freedom to flourish, as is our state's motto. P
02-26-2025
Daniel Landgrebe []
CON
I am a biologist. Gender and sex exist on an infinite spectrum. These facets of people's basic beliefs do dire harm to individuals and communities when suppressed.I was born a male and am a man today. Long ago, when my fiance told me that they were nonbinary and wanted to go by they/them pronouns I was shocked. I got upset. "How do you know?" I argued, as i have always felt the way I have felt, so I must be a man because this is how men feel. It did not make any sense to me then. What if people thought i wasn't straight?I get it now though: I don't understand your experience. It doesn't have to "make sense" to me. It is their human experience and I believe them. I believe them in their suffering. I believe them in their exile. When they get cut off from the "normal" world. Trans people exist. They will always exist. Just because they thought it was safe to living their authentic self in the real world does not mean it is spreading or an agenda.
02-26-2025
Martin Lohrmann [Wartburg Theological Seminary]
CON
02-26-2025
Mara Neal [Concerned citizen ]
CON
This bill is a travesty to all Iowans. Civil rights are for all, not just a few.
02-26-2025
Tom Williamson [just me]
CON
I oppose any and all atttempts to discriminate against and/or infringe on the civil rights of LGBTQ+ Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anita Christensen [None]
CON
I oppose HF583.
02-26-2025
Carolyn Stephenson []
CON
Vote No; do not advance this proposal. Stop propagating this culture war against LGBTA+ persons. Your elected position does not give you the right to impose your personal beliefs on all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Vicki Nordskog []
CON
I am opposed to the legislation proposed in HF 583. This legislation is hurtful, and Iowa does not need nor should it desire to be the first state in the nation to remove gender identity protections from its civil rights code. I have known several transgender individuals well through my lifetime and they are just people who want to be good citizens, care for others, and live their life as God made them. Transgender people have existed for thousands of years, and have been revered in some societies. They are what they are and would not have chosen their gender identity if it was a choice. They should not be denied their civil liberties. Please vote no on this legislation.
02-26-2025
Haley Lammer-Heindel [citizen]
CON
As a mother and teacher I am concerned and devestated at the thought that Iowa might no longer be a safe place for my children and students. I am NOT concerned about transathletes playing along side my children in sports or transgender individuals using restrooms with them. I am embarrassed and ashamed of Iowa, and if this bill passes, it is a reason why I will encourage my children to leave this state for college and their adult lives. That breaks my heart.Gender is not a law. It is not a rule. It cannot and will not be policed. Iowans like me will resist.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Hanna []
CON
I am in favor of civil rights for all people. As Americans, as "We The People", we should demand equal rights for ALL. Gender identity discrimination is antiAmerican. Please oppose this bill for the sake of as all. When one of us suffers, we all suffer.
02-26-2025
Mary Kenyon []
CON
I do not support this bill. I dont want to see Iowa remove gender identity from Civil Rights protections afforded to all of us. We do not put the rights of a tiny minority to a vote. The laws are in place to protect vulnerable people. This should not change.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Lucia Kuehn []
CON
02-26-2025
Lisa Johnson []
CON
I am opposed to this legislation which will remove civil rights protections for persons in the LGBTQ+ community. What happened to the state mottoour liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain? How is this legislation maintaining anyone's rights? What happened to "Iowa nice"? What happened to our empathy and compassion? I am ashamed to see this bill come up in our legislature!
02-26-2025
Tyler Walpole []
CON
Iowa is about to become the first state in the union to strip away civil rights from a protected class.This will make it legal to discriminate against Trans folks for housing and employment for no other reason than being transgender and existing.This bill solves no problems, but will inflict great harm on an already marginalized community.It's obvious that the goal of this bill is to make Transgender folks suffer. At least be honest about your motives when you cast your vote tomorrow.
02-26-2025
Blakely Mortvedt []
CON
This bill is appalling. Trans people do not harm anyone by their very existence, but this bill will harm the Trans community and Iowans as a whole. Additionally, I can guarantee there will be negative economic impacts as people leave the state, businesses decide not to operate here, and people decide not to visit.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Kelcey Patrick-Ferree []
CON
I share Rep. Lohse's concerns about this bill, particularly as a member of the protected class that this bill claims to help, women. More fundamentally, I am a thirdgeneration Iowa attorney, and I believe that it is anathema to the concept of equal justice under the law to ever remove a group from civil rights legislation protections. It is also likely unconstitutional, and hence a waste of taxpayer dollars to pass and then make legal arguments in favor of.As a business owner, I am also deeply concerned about the effect such a step will have on Iowa businesses. Companies like Target that ended their DEI initiatives are already seeing sales slumps. I fear it will be much worse for a state that takes the affirmative step of taking away civil rights from protected groups, particularly the first state to do so.Please vote no to HSB 242.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
I would like to let all of my Iowa reps know my thoughts. I see so many comments on this bill that it would be taking away the rights of some. The reality is, this bill does not take away anyones rightsit simply restores clarity to the law and ensures that women's sexbased protections remain intact.Transidentifying individuals will still have the same rights as every other Iowanthe right to employment, housing, and credit. Those protections exist under the Constitution and federal law. What this bill does is prevent gender identity from being used to override biological reality and erase the rights of women and girls.Right now, activists assign false meaning to this bill, claiming it legalizes discrimination when, in fact, it only ensures that womens safety, privacy, and dignity are protected.This is about making sure our laws work for everyone without forcing radical ideology onto institutions and the public.Please vote YES on HF583 and restore fairness and clarity to Iowa law.
02-26-2025
Sarah Hoke []
CON
What ever happened to 'Iowa Nice?' I feel strongly that we should be accepting of everyone, regardless of someones own personal gender identity. Teaching children acceptance and kindness should be our goal, although it seems there are a lot of adults who need to learn this too.
02-26-2025
Justin jeske [Resident iowan]
CON
This legislation is a huge step in the wrong direction in terms of equality for all people's. More than ever, the people of this country crave freedom of expression and authenticity. And we crave these innately human desires without the fear of rejection and punishment. I don't know a single person in this country (no matter their political offiliation) that doesn't wish to be able to express their truly authentic self.This legislation prohibits that. What ever happened to "do on to your neighbor that you would do onto you"??Let people be themselves. This country has much bigger problems, Iowa, has much bigger problems.
02-26-2025
Morgan Laden []
CON
I fear this bill is a large step backwards. We should not be working to strip rights away from people. It is 2025, we have come so far. This is not about protecting women and children in restrooms as the 'pro' side says. This will allow for SEGREGATION in all aspects of life and cause more harm than good.
02-26-2025
Daniel P Earp []
CON
02-26-2025
Cynthia Unger []
CON
I oppose this bill. Taking the rights away is inhumane. When we know better, we do better. This bill is certainly the most hateful harmful legislation to come out of Iowa and to justify it because some women and men are fearful of going to the bathroom. These same people would not support a Violence Against Women Act in Congress, but by God, they cant go into a bathroom. May God really really help them, because they are lacking their hearts.
02-26-2025
Myranda Hadley [None]
CON
I vehemently disagree with this bill and the thought of our state removing rights for any Iowans. The majority does not want this and I implore our legislation to not harm the trans community and their civil rights. We all deserve a life where our rights are upheld and removing rights for one group puts all of our rights at risk. No one is truly free when limits are placed on who gets rights and when. Please vote no on this and do not make life harder for our community.
02-26-2025
Kathryn Lange [Concerned citizen ]
CON
As a school counselor and mother of three I work daily to promote respect, equity, and compassion amongst our youth as they learn and grow. It is essential that ALL Iowans are treated with human dignity.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Individual]
CON
This bill is a horrible affront to the dignity and wellbeing of trans and nonbinary Iowans. Trans rights are human rights. It must not be legal to fire someone, deny them housing, or limit educational opportunities based on their gender identity. This is reprehensible legislation.
02-26-2025
Kate Bachmann []
CON
Iowa is meant to protect all of its citizens.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Frances Maus [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Katie Kopp []
CON
Trans rights are human rights. Please vote NO on this bill.
02-26-2025
Ava Rehm []
CON
To alter any existing discriminatory protection policies and practices will not only cause harm to the very citizens of Iowa who benefit from them, but harm the already vulnerable workforce. To designate a male or female only existence, excludes an already biological and medically defined person that is intersex. This excludes members of your constituency that you are speaking on behalf of. This is where your loyalty should lie. Not to appease ignorant members of the United States Congress, that of which does not speak for Iowa. You do.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Iris Lammer [N/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Kassandra StClaire [Iowa Federation of Labor/ APWU44/ Polk county Dems]
CON
Dear House Legislator,My name is Kassaandra StClaire and I live in Waveland woods neighborhood in Des Moines.I live together with my Wife Serafina StClaire. We own a home together. We pay property taxes, state taxes abd we are productive members of uour community.Weboth have careers in the the federal public service. We are both Transgender females with families in Utah and Rhode Island. We have children and grandchildren. I am 53 and my wife is 52. We have lived as females since 2018. Unlike what is portrayed by many social content creators or political action groups. Making the choice to transition is not a choice. Gender dysphoria is a diagnosed condition that is recognized internationally and many if not all of our states as well. It is not something anyone would wish to have. But it is part of who my wife and I are. It is not something that can be legislated by religious preference. Because it makes some uncomfortable. That it makes one consider whether or not biology makes one who they are or their soul. Yes Transgender Americans pray and worship as Christians too. My congregation Walnut hills is a reconciling congregation of the United Methodust church. My home state of Rhode Island recognizes gender identity as a human right. It is part of the Rhode Island state code and supported atleast by 16 other states nationwide. It is the state in which my vital records reside. The choice to be whom you are is a fundamental human right. My wife and myself live as females and have for many years. We have had medical intervention that is not reversible. Being forced to use a restroom that is contrary to our physical appearance and Gender identity would cause a harm that is not dissimilar from segregation in the southern United States. Removing our civil rights from Iowa civil rights code is very harmful. It is also very hurtful to be excluded .You are creating a whole sub set of the population with your legislation. You are proposing to repeal human rights lawfully voted in law by the general assembly in a previous session. I ask on behalf of myself and the thousands of Iowians this will effect to please withdraw this bill. I furthermore place the state of Iowa, Governor Reynolds, and the attorney general. That I will use every means at my disposal to challenge the constitutionally of not recogoniseing my vital records from the state of Rhode Island. Which will remain in place. I will absolutely make each and every member politically responsible come the next election. As this would be a deletion of my wife's and my civil rights. It will create great harm to me and others. Expose thousands of LGBTQIA+to discrimination, persecution, and possible violence. This is already being challenged at a federal level by Lamda Legal. I ask as citzen of the state of Iowa to maintain my fundamental human rights and that of my wife. We should have the freedom to be whom is authentic to us. We should be able to love one another. This is not the Iowa I have known for 20 years. Please don't do this. We may not agree on every belief. But human rights should be an easy bypartisan cooperation. We have a rare condition that has been mitigated by myself, my wife, and our physicians. There is an established protocol to help those with gender disphoria live happy and productive lives. Those who truly transition want to life life unnoticed. They chose one gender or another. Even those whom have chosen not to identify as either gender should have the freedom to make a choice. You may not understand gender dysphoria. But that does not mean it does not exist. We have support of our doctors and our clergy. This is already in the law. I am asking you to leave Iowa Code as it has already been lawfully amended. Kassandra StClaireSerafina StClaireDes Moines, Iowa, 50311
02-26-2025
Constance Twining []
CON
02-26-2025
Katherine Washut [None]
CON
I am an Iowa citizen and a cisgender woman who is tired of the barrage of cruelty doled out by our Republican representatives against some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. You claim to want to protect people like me, but this bill will do nothing of the sort. And, further, I DO NOT NEED protection from transgender people!! They pose NO threat to me whatsoever. They are simply human beings trying to live their lives free of oppression. I oppose this horrendous bill and expect my representatives to vote against it. Despite what you all might think, voters did not elect you to waste time doing cruel things like taking away the rights of Iowans. You were elected to do things that improve the lives and livelihoods of ALL your constituents, things like improving the quality of the air we breathe and the water we drink; doing something about the high rates of cancer in our state; fully funding our public schools (not giving handouts to charter schools); addressing the lack of affordable housing and child care and the lack of qualified doctors and adequate health care in both urban and rural Iowa. I implore you to stop wasting time on bills that are nothing but supposed solutions in search of a problem. The rights of our LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters should be protected, not destroyed. Stop playing games and do your jobs!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not support legislated hatred and discrimination. Those that do support it should be ashamed of themselves. How do you think your god will judge you?
02-26-2025
Jeramie Anderson [St. Ambrose School of Social Work]
CON
SF 418 isnt about Christianity, and its not about bathroom privacy. Its a desperate cultural stance taken by a rightwing movement fueled by fear, vengeance, and hate. This bill is a culmination of years of antitrans attacks designed to strip an entire group of people of their rights, dignity, and even legal existence. It has nothing to do with protecting anyoneits about control, erasure, and using trans people as scapegoats for a manufactured moral panic. History will not look kindly on those who push this cruelty under the guise of values.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I'm a 5th generation Iowan. Civil rights and diversity are part of the very foundation of our great state, built by people of different nationalities who came together despite their differences to form our communities. Legislating discrimination is not acceptable in 2025. Our Trans citizens deserve equal protection in areas of housing, employment, education and healthcare. I stronly oppose attempts to repeal civil rights for any Iowan.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am saddened, disappointed, and incensed that this proposal has made it this far. Please don't let it go any further! Our country was formed because people believed in certain unalienable rights. Those rights are for all people. We should be doing all we can to love and build people up, not tear them down.
02-26-2025
Bianca Elizabeth Osterhoudt [Human]
CON
EVERY HUMAN DESERVES EQUAL RIGHTS
02-26-2025
Rebecca Noll Reinert []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Reiss]
CON
02-26-2025
Christina [Boeck Crew]
CON
We should work together to navigate the difficulties, rather than throwing the baby out with the catheters bath water.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen]
CON
This bill is a waste of taxpayer time and money. Focus on something important, like funding public school's, improving infrastructure, or making Iowa a state 0somethings would want to stay in.
02-26-2025
Karna Bosman []
CON
Please do NOT allow this HATEFUL and unconstitutional bill to become law. As our elected officials, it is your responsibility to uphold our state motto. "Our liberties we prize; our rights we will maintain." If you strip away the rights of our Trans community, you will make a mockery of our state. Do not rip away the human rights of an already marginalized minority group. This legislation is extremely discriminatory, as it would strip away existing civil rights protections for transgender individuals, making Iowa the first state to rescind such rights after they have been granted. This move would most likely expose transgender Iowans to increased discrimination in various aspects of daily life, including employment, housing, and public services. The legislation would mandate that birth certificates reflect an individual's sex assigned at birth, prohibiting any changes to align with ones gender identity. Without a birth certificate citing a persons gender, a transgender person cannot obtain a drivers license with the correct information. As a person of faith, I implore you to do all in your power to combat such unjust treatment and to promote equal rights and protections for all.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Mohr []
CON
02-26-2025
Bonnie Hiscox [NA]
CON
This is horrific and is completely unjustified. Someone being transgender is the same as someone having blue eyes versus brown eyes, their nails growing flat rather than curved, or someone being born as intersex.Saying this is to protect "our wives and daughters" makes no sense. I receive updates on sex offenders in my neighborhood from Experian, most of whom, if not all, are straight, white men. Transgender individuals aren't only born as males, there are female born Transgender individuals as well.I DO NOT support this bill ending transgender civil rights protection, and I identify as a female, born as a female, who is a daughter, who plans on becoming a wife, who plans on having children who deserve to be treated as any other, regardless of how they are born and develope.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Leave people alone! Stop trampling civil rights. This is America!
02-26-2025
Madeline Maser []
CON
CON I am terrified of what this type of legislation is meant to lead to a society built on fear through oppression. Our "leadership" is going against the main themes of their touted Christianity (judge not/love thy neighbor) and this bill is an immoral embarassment.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
Every Iowa citizen deserves to be treated as an equal. Taking away the rights of any one group takes away the rights of all of us.Iowa has proudly protected the rights of transgender Iowans for many years now. Removing those rights sets us back in time and progress.If we want Iowa to grow, we must welcome all who want to come.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill goes against the State motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful and unnecessary. Not to mention a waste of time, lets fix whats wrong with our state instead of focusing on a tiny percentage of the population that is just trying to live!!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Vote NO for this legislation. I do not support removing civil rights for transgender individuals. Each Iowa should be afforded the same civil rights, freedoms, and liberties. The LGBTQ+ community is being targeted and their rights are being stripped away. Please vote NO to ANY legislature that removes legal protections and opens up the possibility of more districimination and hate crimes against this community.
02-26-2025
Abby McIntosh []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill, which seeks to redefine statutory language regarding sex and gender, restrict indications of gender identity on vital records, remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit school curricula related to gender theory. This legislation represents a harmful rollback of fundamental rights and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, erasing their legal recognition and undermining their dignity.By restricting how gender identity is acknowledged in law and education, this bill not only disregards the lived experiences of countless Iowans but also promotes exclusion and discrimination. Removing gender identity protections from civil rights law weakens legal safeguards against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, placing transgender individuals at heightened risk of harm. Additionally, censoring discussions of gender in schools limits students ability to learn about diverse identities, fostering ignorance rather than understanding.Every person deserves to be recognized and protected under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This bill fails to uphold the principles of equality and inclusion, and I urge lawmakers to reject it in favor of policies that affirm and respect the rights of all individuals.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Please reject this horrible bill. Trans rights should not be up for debate.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
I have a transgender daughter, who is a wonderful and beautiful individual. She was born and has lived in Iowa her whole life, has a great job, and is married. She started transitioning in 2020 after years of consideration and is so happy to be living her true authentic life. Everyone of her family, friends and extended family have embraced her. This current hateful and discriminatory movement that is being embraced by a certain political majority party in both the Iowa legislature and the United States Congress amounts to persecution of a very small percentage of people that are just trying to live their authentic lives, be productive members of society and be happy. Lets quit singling them out, and basically bullying them.
02-26-2025
Cindy Kiel []
CON
Your job is to support ALL citizens of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Liz Dinkins []
CON
I urge you to oppose House File 583, a bill that threatens the fundamental right of all people to express and live into their full, authentic identities. As a person of faith and minister, I affirm that all people are created in the image of God, beautifully diverse and worthy of dignity. But beyond any one faith tradition, this is a matter of basic human rights.Every personregardless of faith, background, or beliefdeserves the freedom to embrace who they are without fear of restriction or erasure. This bill disallows that freedom. In addition, House File 583 could be seen as a violation of the First Amendment, particularly regarding freedom of speech and exercise of religion.This bill seeks to restrict how individuals can express themselves, particularly in terms of gender identity. The First Amendment protects not just spoken words but also expressive conduct, including how people present themselves. By limiting the ways individuals can express their identities in public spaces, the government is infringing upon personal freedoms protected by the Constitution.For many people of faith, myself included, affirming and respecting the dignity of all peopleincluding their gender identitiesis a deeply held religious belief. If the government imposes restrictions that prevent individuals or religious organizations from fully living out these beliefs, it could be seen as a violation of the Free Exercise Clause. The state cannot favor one interpretation of faith over another or impose laws that suppress religious expressions of inclusion and affirmation.Additionally, this bill restricts what educators, medical professionals, or other public figures can say about gender identity, it could amount to unconstitutional government overreach into protected speech. Courts have historically struck down laws that attempt to regulate personal expression and identity in this way.Passing this bill would not only harm Iowans, but also set a dangerous precedent for how similar restrictive policies may spread across the country, further marginalizing vulnerable communities. I implore you to reject this harmful legislation and stand for the freedom and wellbeing of all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Carter Thayer []
CON
02-26-2025
Anita M. Johnson []
CON
I have lived in Iowa for a total of 47 years, 34 of them as a pastor. I have met, and cared for and about, a variety of people in this state. Today my concern is for those who are transgender because they are under attack by the legislature. In my denomination, the first rule guiding relationships and ministry is to "do no harm." I also learned in my training that one's intention is not what matters, rather it is the received persons perception and real experience. Whether or not harm is intended by passing legislation such as HF 583, it is perceived and received as harm by transgender Iowans and those who support them. To deny transgender Iowans basic civil rights in unconscionable and unIowan. I urge legislators to defeat HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
I don't understand why the Iowa legislature is waisting time and resources enacting laws that go after the civil liberties of our most vulnerable population; might I also add, such a small minority of people in our state that it is bald faced tyranny. Do we want our state legacy to reflect being the first to rescind civil rights for a protected class? This is unconstitutional, immoral and frankly disgusting. Live and let live!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a proud Iowan, I believe in the fundamental American values of freedom, fairness, and limited government overreach. Our state mottoOur Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintainreflects the belief that all Iowans should have the opportunity to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to their communities without unnecessary government interference.Thats why I have serious concerns about HF 583. This bill would create new government mandates that open the door for discrimination, putting the state in the business of deciding who gets access to opportunities based on personal characteristics rather than merit. Iowa has long been a leader in civil rights, and we should be ensuring that our laws protect personal freedom, not restrict it.Furthermore, while this bill is being presented as a measure to protect women, it could have unintended consequences. It may encourage invasive policing of peoples identities, which risks harming women and girls by subjecting them to scrutiny, harassment, and public humiliation simply based on appearances. Government should not be in the business of policing personal identityit should be protecting individual rights.I urge you to oppose HF 583 and uphold Iowas legacy as a state that values freedom, fairness, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill serves no purpose other than to suppress and erase the trans citizens in our state. A reminder of our state motto "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain."In no way does this bill or any like it reflect the values of the above motto or this state.Civil Rights are not a limited resource, it's not like Pizza when you run out as you add more pizza. Rather, as you give more people basic civil and human rights, everyone gains. Removing any one defined category of people will only make it easier to remove another. Who is next? Women are already being stripped of the right to basic health care. Children? You are depriving them of the right to education already. The disabled, Veterans, who is next?This is not who we are as a state, or a nation. I beg you to reconsider and vote against this terrible attack on Iowans.
02-26-2025
Casie Kaiser []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowan]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill, which seeks to redefine statutory language regarding sex and gender, restrict indications of gender identity on vital records, remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit school curricula related to gender theory. This legislation represents a harmful rollback of fundamental rights and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, erasing their legal recognition and undermining their dignity.By restricting how gender identity is acknowledged in law and education, this bill not only disregards the lived experiences of countless Iowans but also promotes exclusion and discrimination. Removing gender identity protections from civil rights law weakens legal safeguards against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, placing transgender individuals at heightened risk of harm. Additionally, censoring discussions of gender in schools limits students ability to learn about diverse identities, fostering ignorance rather than understanding.Every person deserves to be recognized and protected under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This bill fails to uphold the principles of equality and inclusion, and I urge lawmakers to reject it in favor of policies that affirm and respect the rights of all individuals.
02-26-2025
Thomas Geno-Stumme [Concerned Citizen]
CON
This is disgusting legislation and is threatening to take us back decades. Legislators that ate pushing this should be ashamed of themselves. Do better, be better.
02-26-2025
Joseph Schneider [None]
CON
This bill has no human heart. Its effect is to erase the legal existence of an essential component of the existence of trans people and far beyond. It denies the legitimate existence of gender as a personal signifier and gives the state the right to tell a person who they are, despite what they themselves say. That is the erasure, with the force of law saying you do not exist as you say you do. It violates the individual rights of an American citizens own claim to determine this fundamental ground of existence. That is the missing right and heart of the matter. Cruel. Inhuman. Authoritarian. It does not represent what Iowans believe is fair and right. Please vote against this bill.
02-26-2025
Gretchen Johnson []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
EVERY Iowa deserves equal rights under the law,no exceptions. Please do not take away rights. This must stop!
02-26-2025
Erica Leavell []
CON
02-26-2025
Colin Wiborg []
CON
This bill is rooted in hate. Pass it and you are bending to fascist rule. I know multiple people who will be impacted by this, all the people adding "pro" to their comments probably don't. Because they don't care if it doesn't affect them. Have one shred of emparhy.
02-26-2025
Damon Anson []
CON
This bill CANNOT pass, lest Iowa lose all claims to the phrase that appears upon our state flag. This is the literal opposite of our rights we will maintain.Uphold your oaths or face removal
02-26-2025
Jennifer Hansen []
CON
Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Voting to approve this bill is in direct opposition to what our state stands for. We and our is EVERYONE. There are real issues in this state that need addressed. Allowing this bill to pass opens the door for discrimination against one group, and makes it easier to add another group, and then another. This bill isnt meant to protect women, and women know it. Donate right thing and vote no.
02-26-2025
Karla Schoen []
PRO
The only purpose to this disgusting bill, is to demoralize the gay community!
02-26-2025
Eric Kochneff [Individual ]
CON
Theres no reason to move this bill forward; not only is it a horrible look for our state, but its incredibly overbroad and hateful, targeting minority groups with no voice in addition to unintended consequences for everyone. As a parent, native Iowan, working professional, engaged member of the community, youth sports coach and referee; I can unequivocally say Iowa does not need this bill. If you think it does, you have been lied to by people who went to misdirect your attention away from things that actually harm you (such as gun violence in schools, water quality, unelected billionaires ruining our county, and elected politicians choosing to strip benefits lol Medicare, Social Security, food for hungry children, and Medicaid) onto groups with no power and pose no harm.
02-26-2025
Caitlin Hickey []
CON
02-26-2025
Lisa Hancox [n/a]
CON
Please reject this bill. Listen to the people of this state and do what is right. This bill is reprehensible.
02-26-2025
Allison McIntosh [Iowa citizen]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill, which seeks to redefine statutory language regarding sex and gender, restrict indications of gender identity on vital records, remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit school curricula related to gender theory. This legislation represents a harmful rollback of fundamental rights and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, erasing their legal recognition and undermining their dignity.By restricting how gender identity is acknowledged in law and education, this bill not only disregards the lived experiences of countless Iowans but also promotes exclusion and discrimination. Removing gender identity protections from civil rights law weakens legal safeguards against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, placing transgender individuals at heightened risk of harm. Additionally, censoring discussions of gender in schools limits students ability to learn about diverse identities, fostering ignorance rather than understanding.Every person deserves to be recognized and protected under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This bill fails to uphold the principles of equality and inclusion, and I urge lawmakers to reject it in favor of policies that affirm and respect the rights of all individuals.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Thomas [Pastor, parent and Iowa resident]
CON
Every person deserves dignity and respect.
02-26-2025
Kate shea []
CON
02-26-2025
Anne McCullough Kelly [Mental Health Counselor & Concerned Parent]
CON
I respectfully ask you to oppose the advancement of HF 583, which seeks to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This proposed legislation runs counter to our state motto Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain, as well as the messaging recently supported by Governor Reynolds that Iowa be a state where people have freedom to flourish. Removing gender identity as a protected identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act will make Iowans vulnerable to being refused housing, employment, credit applications at banks, and possibly even education opportunities to name a few examples. In the recent House Committee meetings, I have heard Representatives state that this bill will not create hardship for Iowans due to discrimination. But I have not heard the alternative plan to prevent Iowans with gender identity (and we all have gender identity) from being discriminated against.We do not want or need to be known in this country as a state whose legislature and governor promotes discrimination and thats exactly what HF 583 proposes to legitimize. We can have our differences of opinion and beliefs on gender identity, but I hope we can come together with a unified voice against discrimination. Prejudice and discrimination that hurts some Iowans hurts all of us in the end. Passing this legislation could create a dangerous precedent for challenging other sacredly held civil rights in the future. And history has long since demonstrated the necessity of civil rights protections.This legislation does not protect us from what we fear. It threatens to hurts members of our community who work hard, positively contribute, and deserve access to the same rights and resources as those not protected by gender identity (which, again, we all hold gender identity and are vulnerable at any time to prejudice and discriminatory practices).There are better paths to addressing our concerns than removing civil rights protections from a group of people. Join with me and your other colleagues in the Iowa House in opposing the legalization of discrimination so we can show Iowans and those outside our state that we truly do prize and protect the liberty and freedom to flourish for all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill goes against the State motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful and unnecessary.
02-26-2025
Holly Patch []
CON
02-26-2025
Suellen Flynn []
CON
02-26-2025
Christina Penn-Goetsch [speaking as an individual]
CON
I am against removing any existing civil right from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. What ever happened to "Iowa nice"? The only purpose of allowing prejudice based on any perceived gender is simply cruel and intrusive on the lives of our citizens. We used to respect and care for each other. What happened to our predominately Christian faith? This change would protect no one. It would only hurt a minority.
02-26-2025
Emily Sewell []
CON
02-26-2025
Catherine Pollard [Self]
CON
The removal of civil rights is always wrongdo not support this bill.
02-26-2025
Ryan Hagen []
CON
I am against the removal of our civil liberties! Iowas motto is Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain! We do NOT need this hate in our state! We do not need to be on the wrong side of history and remove civil rights that hard working Iowans fought for! Please please reconsider this bill.
02-26-2025
Britta Loftus []
CON
I am writing to encourage legislators to OPPOSE HSB 242 / HF 583 / SF418. As a born and raised Iowan, this bill devastates me; Iowa has a long history of being one of the first states in the nation to recognize the equal rights of Iowans (including women, minorities, and the LGBQT+ community), yet this bill would strip away rights of Iowans. As a lawyer, this bill goes against everything we were taught about striving to achieve our nation's ideals of equal rights under law; the bill moves our state in the opposite direction. As a human, this bill just seems so cruel; people I know and love identify as trans and nonbinary, and they are just trying to live their lives like the rest of us. I truly do not understand the legislature's fixation on targeting this community and removing their rights. Please stop this horrible bill from moving forward.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
There are numerous mental health and socioeconomic challenges affecting Iowas youth. This bill is not only inappropriate but also overly broad, potentially harming performance art at the very least. How does any of this address the real issues facing our state? It feels extremist and reminds me of my childhood in Northeast Iowa before diversity. A time when extremist groups ran rampant and unchecked which was much more scary and harmful to my childhood than any of the things you are suggesting. Iowa was once a place of love and acceptance. I remember when our schools ranked among the best in the countrybefore they were slowly defunded. I dont understand what is happening. Iowa, we can and must do better.
02-26-2025
Susan [Lekson]
CON
Again I ask you to not pass this harmful bill.This is very harmful and can lead to lawsuits, suicidal behavior, and loss of our transgender neighbors. Why turn Iowa a place to go away from instead of a place to grow that I remember.I believe Mr. Rogers would be appalled with this idea of a neighborhood.Sent from my iPhoneSusanOn Feb 23, 2025, at 12:58PM, Susan L gasphotomsn.com wrote:This is a horrible bill against our transgender neighbors. Do not push this hateful bill forward and allow gender identity to be removed for Iowa Civil Rights Act. It is just legalized discrimination. So many young adults through elderly will be harmed if this law passes. I have a friend who even after death was not accepted by his family. He was very depressed and committed suicide. His family buried him with his given name. We were not able visit as this wasnt my friends name. I believe he haunts his family because of it. Susan
02-26-2025
Kathy Sides []
CON
People that are transgender have existed throughout human history. Taking away their right not to be openly hated and discriminated against will not make them disappear. As a lifelong Christian and an ordained minister, I stand against this bill. It is a bill designed to help no one, and to harm many. It is a bill motivated by prejudice, fear and hatred. All persons are persons of sacred worth, and Iowans should be ashamed and embarrassed by this effort to remove protections already given to a vulnerable class of people. A vote for this bill is a vote for ignorance and intolerance. Please vote no!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is unnecessarily cruel and antiscientific. It is an egregious waste of public resources that elected officials have spent so much time talking, thinking and drafting this measure that has no purpose other than oppression of people living in a supposed "land of the free." Your hate has no place in Iowa or the USA.
02-26-2025
Marcus Linde []
CON
I am against this bill, removing civil rights from groups of people isnt acceptable. The idea that this will protect anyone is absurd. I can think of millions of ideas for what is a better use of tax payer time or dollars. Its a fact that this law would only hurt Iowans while adding nothing.
02-26-2025
Michael Miller [Self]
CON
I ask that you please vote against this bill, here in committee and on the House floor. I know transgender people. I have worked with transgender people. They want what all of us want privacy at home, and a fair shake outside of that. There is no need to take away rights that they have now, and create a new right to discriminate. Your doing so means that we will need to add an asterisk to the second part of our states motto.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is shameful. Stop wasting our time and tax dollars attacking the rights of fellow Iowans. We need clean water, safe roads and bridges, and action on our unacceptable cancer ratesnot political distractions. Do better.
02-26-2025
Jack Hansen []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Susan Benderson [self]
CON
There is no good reason to pass this bill except to punish people for self expression that doesn't agree with your expectations. It will leave people homeless and jobless and justify mistreatment of people who are just trying to be themselves. Would you support a bill that allowed everyone to discriminate against you? Or your daughter/mother/sister just because they are women? Please don't do this.
02-26-2025
Nick I []
CON
We should pushing for more civil rights, not less. This bill will hurt the LGBT community, not only through discrimination, but by silencing the discussion. I have a hard time believing "removing gender theory curriculum" will be content neutral. I think it's more likely that this will be used to prevent mention of LGBT individuals for fear of retaliation, a clear first amendment violation. Vote no
02-26-2025
Beth Gilbreath [Citizen]
CON
I believe this nothing more than hateful legislation targeting transgender Iowans and it must be stopped. This is unconscionable. Removing civil rights from a marginalized community not even representative of more than 1% of the population will cause undo stress and harm. Do not advance this bill. Do not Intentionally inflict harm on others.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Every Iowan deserves to be treated fairly without fear of discrimination
02-26-2025
greg wickenkamp []
CON
Please do not pass this bill into law. In my decade spent as a public school teacher, I knew students who were bullied and literally beat by unsupportive friends and family because their gender did not align with conservative notions of how they expressed their gender. To pass a bill in 2025 that literally states "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal" is morally repugnant and defies basic lessons from our nation's history.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
All Iowans, including transgender individuals, deserve fair and equal treatment under the law. Everyone should have the opportunity to earn a living and support their families. Denying someone housing or credit simply because of their gender identity creates an unfair system. Basic antidiscrimination protections are crucial for a meritbased system, ensuring equal access to opportunities regardless of identity or perception. Furthermore, this bill threatens sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women, protections that are currently absent from Iowa's sex discrimination statute.Transgender people are valued members of our communities our friends, neighbors, family, and colleagues. They deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, just like anyone else, when it comes to housing, employment, and access to businesses and government services.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Our state should not be one in which we remove civil rights from our residents. There is absolutely no reason that these human & civil rights would be under attack unless the purpose is to encourage discrimination against some of our own people in this state. Im ashamed that my state is considering this removal of civil rights. History will not look back kindly on our current leaders.
02-26-2025
Anthony Noel []
CON
I am writing as a concerned Iowan (I live right here in Des Moines) over the proposed bill, HF 583, which seeks to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. These near constant attacks on transgender people are both cruel and dangerous, and will cost people their lives. That is not hyperbole, it is fact. You cannot continue to marginalize a minority group, creating a secondclass citizenship, and act as though there are no consequences to said actions. The mental damage inflicted alone is harmful enough.Transgender affirming care is supported by the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the World Health Organization, just to name a few. The idea that we would purposely strip these individuals of civil rights protections just because of who they are, is unconscionable and does nothing for the betterment of all Iowans. It also serves as nothing more than a distraction from the real issues at hand. These individuals are doing what is best for them in their lives. Its a decision that they have made with their trusted doctors, mental health professionals, and family. While some may not understand that, none of us are ever absolved of our responsibility to treat others with dignity, and theres nothing dignified about stripping people of their rights.Finally, having a strong opinion on a matter should really be objective and follow the facts. Nothing about this bill supports the reality of these peoples lives and situations, or the reality of life itself, which transgender folks are a very real part of. Instead, it supports bigotry and discrimination, which is never factual or logical. It seeks to remove protections from a class of people that the most hardlineconservative voices have deemed offensive, while helping literally no one.You have a chance to stand up for decency and humanity. I implore you to use your voice to do so! Reject this bill!
02-26-2025
Stefanie Munsterman [ ]
CON
As a longtime resident of Iowa, I am writing to urge you to oppose any efforts to remove gender identity protections from the Civil Rights Act. Iowa stands for fairness, community, and dignity for all, as reflected in our state motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Stripping these protections goes against these core values and puts at risk individuals simply seeking to live free from discrimination.Gender identity protections ensure that all Iowansregardless of how they identifycan access equal opportunities in employment, housing, healthcare, and public spaces. Removing these safeguards not only violates the rights of countless individuals but also harms our states economic wellbeing. The business community has made it clear that laws removing protections negatively impact employees, customers, competitiveness, and both local and state economies. The social, economic, and health consequences of stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people further harm Iowas prosperity. Instead of limiting access and opportunity, we should focus on fostering a state that supports every resident in thriving.Iowa has long been a leader in advancing civil rights, and now is the time to continue that traditionnot reverse it. We must work toward greater inclusivity and fairness for all. I urge you to uphold the values that make Iowa strong and reject any attempts to weaken the rights of our neighbors, friends, and family members.Civil rights are the foundation of equality, justice, and freedom. We must remain united in ensuring these rights are protected, upheld, and accessible to all. Now, more than ever, its crucial to reaffirm our commitment to justice and the values that strengthen our society.Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I trust you will stand for the principles of justice, equality, and respect that Iowans hold dear.
02-26-2025
Lynda Lawson [No organization]
PRO
This bill does not eliminate our states constitution rights to citizensit simply restores clarity to the law and ensures that women's sexbased protections remain intact.Transidentifying individuals will still have the same rights as every other Iowanthe right to employment, housing, and credit. Those protections exist under the Constitution and federal law. What this bill does is prevent gender identity from being used to override biological reality and erase the rights of women and girls.Right now, activists assign false meaning to this bill, claiming it legalizes discrimination when, in fact, it only ensures that womens safety, privacy, and dignity are protected.This is about making sure our laws work for everyone without forcing radical ideology onto institutions and the public.Please vote YES on HSB583 (SF 418) and restore fairness and clarity to Iowa law. Sexual preferences nor gender confusion by Iowan citizens should never create a specific and protected category of Iowans. Sexual preference should not be a reason f
02-26-2025
Stephanie [DM Resident, Parent and DMPS Teacher]
CON
02-26-2025
Natalie boll [Flexsteel industries]
CON
02-26-2025
Caitlin Merritt []
CON
02-26-2025
Deborah McIntosh []
CON
I am opposed to any bill that takes away protection from people and gives other people the permission to discriminate against someone that they consider less than equal to them.Every human being should be treated equally. The passage of this bill takes us backward, not forward in our evolution of human understanding.
02-26-2025
John Sellers [myself]
CON
I find what's happening in our state heartbreaking. Iowas civil rights code has been in effect for almost 20 years. And now some want to remove part of its protections. While there may be differences in opinion, I believe we can all agree on one thing. The importance of civil rights. I'm sure there are many republican representatives and senators here who disagree with removing my transgendered friends from protection under the civil rights code, but they are afraid to speak out. We seem to be living in a time when, if you disagree with this governor or president, you will be threatened to be primaried to be removed from office. This is unacceptable. Many of the people supporting this bill, like my friend Danny, seem to want to portray all my transgender friends as sexual predators. They're in the restroom or locker room for no good. As I think many of you know, this is a gross misrepresentation and this legislation would do nothing to stop actual sexual predators from visiting restrooms or locker rooms. It certainly won't protect our youth struggling to understand who they are. I have also met a few transgender men who, if they had to use the women's locker room or restroom, would send the women running out screaming about that man in the room, yet being born female, they are where they are told they have to be. This proposed change is not about protecting women or our children. This will lead to real discrimination. I have friends that could be denied housing, health care, and other services simply because of who they are. This is not just a policy change, it's a threat to the wellbeing of people we care about. I think many of you know this is wrong.
02-26-2025
Danielle Hall [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Rachel Noll-Schueller []
CON
02-26-2025
Molly Dahlberg []
CON
I am once again asking the Iowa Legislature to oppose this. HF 583 will harm people I love. Trans people have the right to live openly and prosperously in Iowa without fear of losing their homes, families, or jobs. Trans people are not preying on children at schools or puiblic bathrooms. Trans people are not a threat to cisgender women and girls. Organizations such as the Iowa chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Iowa Public Health Association, and the Iowa Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers are opposing this legislation. These are not "leftwing" or "liberal" organizations pushing a "woke" agenda. These are organizations dedicated to the health and safety of ALL human beings. Please show some compassion for your fellow Iowans and shut this down!
02-26-2025
Lindsey Piper []
CON
This is a bill that would remove basic protections from transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fit into the bill's narrow definitions.Whatever you may think or feel about transgender people, I hope we can agree that they are human beings deserving of human rights and protections just like any other Iowan. I have the privilege of being friends with transgender Iowans, as well as the privilege of working therapeutically with trans adults and children. I can say confidently that trans people are some of the most hardworking, caring, and passionate people I know. They deserve to have a bright future full of opportunity.All people even transgender people deserve dignity and the right to provide for themselves and their families. If transgender Iowans are allowed to be discriminated against in getting an apartment, a job, or even a credit card, they will be unable to do so. I hope we can also agree that basic antidiscrimination protections are an important component of our meritbased system allowing all Iowans the same fighting chance at a life worth living.Transgender people are in our community. This bill will not erase them, but it will make it harder for them to secure housing, loans, and even gainful employment. It will also make it easier for trans people to be refused service by a business or a government office. In short, how will it serve the interests of Iowa to make it harder for some Iowans to be productive and healthy members of society?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
This bill is a symbol of everything that is wromg with this nation. It insults the American people. I and likeminded people will oppose you tooth and nail. The American people will not be oppressed by parasitic hypocrites like you. May the fleas of a thousand camels infect your crotches. Shal'kek nem'rohn!
02-26-2025
Katie James [Citizen]
CON
I'm the mother of a trans individual. Before he came out, I didn't know much at all about the trans community. I just know I love my kid. So I learned everything I could to help support him. I did research, I spoke to medical providers, counselors, and other parents with genderdiverse kids. There was so much I didn't know. 8 years on, my son is healthy, happy, and thriving as his true self. It terrifies me that he now has to enter the world as an adult without any kind of protections that so many others get to keep under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Trans youth are more than twice as likely to experience homelessness than their cis counterparts. Trans individuals are 4 times as likely as cis individuals to experience a mental health condition. Trans adults are twice as likely to be unemployed as their cis counterparts. For a population that already faces difficulty in these areas of life, why increase their vulnerability by removing protections that the rest of us get? Do we really want to be the first state to strip rights of a marginalized population? Because make no mistake, that is exactly what you are doing. You can say it's about bathrooms or sports but the Iowa Civil Rights Act is about Rights. Specifically, our rights as Iowans not to be discriminated against based on Color Creed Gender Identity Marital Status Mental Disability National Origin Physical Disability Race Religion Retaliation Sex Sexual Orientation. What sense does it make to strip the rights of trans people when your concerns regarding bathrooms and sports are about CISGENDER MEN behaving badly? Why make trans people the scapegoat for something they didn't do? If your concern is that men will impersonate a woman to gain access to women's spaces (which they can legally do now, no matter what they are wearing) then take it up with men. They're the ones you are fearing will follow your wife or mother or daughter into the bathroom. They are the ones you suspect of "switching" genders for a successful sports career. Not trans people! And speaking of bathrooms, this bill will also force trans men to use women's spaces. Men that you would never suspect of being "born female" because they present in such a masculine way that they WOULD be stopped and harassed for using the restroom that this bill insists they must use. If you have concerns about men in bathrooms or women's sports, then make legislation about men.Leave trans people out of it. Trans rights are human rights. Vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Alex Dixon []
CON
02-26-2025
Laura Rank [Laura Rank Counseling LLC]
CON
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Many of us have heard this throughout our lives. What does it mean and how do we do that? It is difficult to understand and process the amount of fear that is overshadowed by hatred and outrage. Within our society, there is so much fear of them and people labeled other. Fear is the driving force behind many decisions and developments. The time is long overdue for our society to pause and reflect. To truly embrace the message and do unto others as you would have them do unto you, we are met with the challenge of discerning how we want our neighbors, coworkers, teammates, enemies etc. to treat us. Most people agree that they would like to be treated with dignity, respect, kindness, compassion, and understanding. Many people appreciate knowing that they belong and are part of a community. I fail to see how removing legal protections for some humans aligns with a goal of treating them as you would like to be treated. Perhaps you are the kind of person who prefers to be treated with vitriol, malice, and social separation. I really doubt that though. I believe that most people are trying to do what is best and right. Supporting this legislation and supporting efforts to take away civil rights from them inadvertently communicates that you are supportive of the same type of treatment. Perhaps you are unaware of the protections afforded to you through the civil rights act. If there is any part of you that is uncomfortable with the prospect of having your civil rights removed, I encourage you to consider how you can do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
02-26-2025
Christine Furlong [Iowa resident]
CON
02-26-2025
Andrew Richmond [Common Sense ]
CON
It is deeply troubling that our elected representatives cant find solutions to protect one group of people without sacrificing the civil rights protections for another group. Its unacceptable, we have to do better, and we have to expect better. If anything, it demonstrates the dangers of allowing one party to have control over all branches of government. It quickly turns into 3 wolves and 2 sheep voting on whats for dinner. But I have faith in Iowans, we are not sheep, and we recognize that its human rights for EVERYBODY. Injustice for one, is injustice for all. I hope our representatives vote no because this hatefueled ideology is not what Iowa is all about. Its not the legacy we want to leave for our kids or the precedent we want to set in our nation.
02-26-2025
Andrea Gomoll []
CON
02-26-2025
Slaton J Anthony [Self]
CON
I believe that every legislature should stay out of the lives of individuals as much as possible and only become involved after evidence exists of a showing of public harm. Public harm are those things which adversely affects the health, safety, or property of the public for which individual remedies are not sufficient. I know of no situation where someone changing their sex from male, from female, or from other to something else has harmed the public. We have existing protections against fraud, against violence, etc. Until there is a clear showing of some public harm, I would urge this bill be tabled and not passes.
02-26-2025
Rae [Self]
CON
I am opposed to this bill that would strip humans of their rights. This bill especially targets the transgender community in Iowa, a group that already feels unsafe in this state. This bill will only allow for further hate, erasure and harm for the trans community. Vote no to bigotry.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill, which seeks to redefine statutory language regarding sex and gender, restrict indications of gender identity on vital records, remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit school curricula related to gender theory. This legislation represents a harmful rollback of fundamental rights and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, erasing their legal recognition and undermining their dignity.By restricting how gender identity is acknowledged in law and education, this bill not only disregards the lived experiences of countless Iowans but also promotes exclusion and discrimination. Removing gender identity protections from civil rights law weakens legal safeguards against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, placing transgender individuals at heightened risk of harm. Additionally, censoring discussions of gender in schools limits students ability to learn about diverse identities, fostering ignorance rather than understanding.Every person deserves to be recognized and protected under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This bill fails to uphold the principles of equality and inclusion, and I urge lawmakers to reject it in favor of policies that affirm and respect the rights of all individuals.
02-26-2025
Isaiah Lary []
PRO
I am an Iowa citizen and I encourage the members of the Iowa Legislature to support and pass this bill. The transgender madness that we have endured in Iowa has gone on for far too long. We were created by God as male and female, two distinct genders. Mark Chapter 10 verse 6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.This bill should help reaffirm what God has already said, and mankind has recognized for thousands of years. There need to be protections for those who believe and speak the truth that there are only two genders. Please pass this bill in its entirety. Thank you to the sponsors and authors of this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
It is monstrous and unthinkable that we would ever want to strip protections and rights away from any group, much less a marginalized one. As a female person, I do not feel protected by attempts to define sex and gender more rigidly and use that as a hammer to beat down transgender people, this does nothing to make me safer and does everything to single out a small group of people and attack them needlessly. Please do not allow our state to slide backwards into oppressing those most in need.
02-26-2025
Sherri Selin []
CON
As a Mother and Grandmother to Transgender people I ask you to not take away any rights of people. This is the beginning of another reign of terror. Stop it now.
02-26-2025
Austin Shea [Citizen]
CON
Please reject this bill. This serves not to protect Iowans, but to harm the most vulnerable among us. Furthermore, we cannot continue to call ourselves the Land of the Free if we revoke the rights and freedoms of our citizens. This action is an affront to to the principles that our nation was founded on.
02-26-2025
Kelly Cooper [n/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Fran Boyken []
CON
I do not support this. Trans rights are human rights.
02-26-2025
Darcie Oelberg []
CON
02-26-2025
Laura Powers [None]
CON
Discrimination in any form is the opposite of what Iowa stands for. Please don't take us backwards.
02-26-2025
Jacob Bethune [N/A]
CON
Yet another incredibly shortsighted and horrible proposal makes its way down the sewers of our legislative process. You have trans Iowans as a part of your constituency. Please consider the ramifications and precedent set by your vote. Voting in favor of this is confirmation of your dismissal of a portion of some of your mistakes vulnerable citizens whom you were elected to represent. The fact this is on the table is ridiculous. Disgraceful.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Dubuque Unidos ]
CON
02-26-2025
Heather Minard []
CON
Please do not pass this bill. We should not be taking rights away from Iowans. My trans friends and family members need more protection than other citizens. They are frequently victims of violence. Their rights to fully participate in civil society need to be protected. Simply the fact that republicans want to strip them of their rights underscores the need to protect them. I wish the legislature would work on real problems that working families have such as affordable housing, education, healthcare, childcare and other issues that affect most people every day.If you want to talk about protecting women in bathrooms, please. Do not make a trans go into a bathroom where they may scare someone who thinks this is a man!!! What is wrong with you? Many trans people look like their preferred identity and no one would care or notice them in the bathroom of their choice. They are more likely to get hurt being forced into the bathroom of YOUR choice. If you want to talk about children's sports. We can. Surely we can make sure there are rules that protect everyone's safety and that also maintain the integrity of the sport. We are surely smart enough to figure this out without stripping people of their rights. Come on. This is bigotry on its face. Whose next?
02-26-2025
Britt [None]
CON
This infringes on the inalienable rights of citizens, creates division, and protects no one. You are elected officials, not Trump corp employees. Adhere to the will of the people and do not vote for hate and discrimination.
02-26-2025
Amanda Kruse [None]
CON
I strongly OPPOSE HF 583! Your constituents, the people of Iowa, very clearly do not support this harmful legislation to strip basic human rights of our valued and hardworking family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers! As our elected officials it is your responsibility to uphold and protect the basic human rights of ALL individuals. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain our state motto!? This bill blatantly and illegally disregards Iowans liberties and human rights. HF 583 would remove human rights from codified law; federal case law and administrative rules do not offer the same protections. This is outright discriminatory legislation. Do the right thing and vote no to HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous
CON
I am wholeheartedly opposed to this bill (HSB 242). Removing civil rights from any group is unacceptable. We as humans deserve basic human rights and protection under the law. I just support this crazy thought that everyone should have equal rights. You were elected to represent all citizens not just some.
02-26-2025
Jeffry Hoffman []
CON
I find it shameful that this legislature is intent on making Iowa the first state to take civil rights protections away from a group of people. Is this what "Freedom to Flourish" means? Is this what our flag means when it says "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain?" Our rights we will maintain. It's right there on the flag. Yet so many among you will vote to do the opposite.Is cruelty to marginalized groups so important to this legislature that you will gleefully turn your back on the founding principles of this state and this nation?
02-26-2025
Kara Bunte []
CON
02-26-2025
John Smick []
CON
This bill is just another attempt to divide people and threaten reasonable protections for minorities in our society. Disgusting and antiChristian.
02-26-2025
Linda Leete []
CON
Con.Please be strong enough to vote against HF583. Even though you may not realize it or think it's possible, our civil rights are being threatened. Ask yourself this...if we don't stand up for others, who will stand for us?
02-26-2025
Timothy Schmitt []
CON
Representatives I emplore you, look into your hearts and ask yourselves if what you are doing is right. Is it right to remove existing protections for people who still need those protections? No, it is not, and every single one of you knows that to be the case. This is a proposition designed to legislate hatred back into our communities, while effecting zero positive change. Matthew 25 tells us: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" And so, for those of you today who ignore my plea, who vote for this measure to pass, who vote the furtherance of hate, you are casting a ballot to disenfranchise your brothers and sisters, and Christ with them.Thank you, and may the mercy of Christ guide you.
02-26-2025
Shawn Fox [Concerned Citizens of Civil Rights]
CON
02-26-2025
David Runneals []
CON
I doubt you will even read this comment or care about any of this, but I write it anyway for those who are too afraid to speak up.I have lived in Iowa all of my life, and have been proud to be an Iowan until discriminatory laws like these have started passing. I have at least 10 friends that have come out as transgender humans. All but 1 of them waited until after high school to come out, I would assume because they were afraid of being bullied in school. I had one of them personally come out to me, and it is something that is deeply personal and takes a lot of courage to do. Has anyone come out to you? If so you would understand that this is something that doesn't happen because they want to "dominate sports of the other sex" or "sneak in locker rooms", both of which are nonissues. Please provide all the times that this has been documented to happen when the human was actively going through medical treatments.I struggle to understand why you enjoy taking rights away from already marginalized Iowans that are struggling to just survive. You say this doesn't discriminate against them. This will discriminate against them. If a property owner doesn't want to rent to one of my transgender friends, these changes allow that. If a business doesn't want to sell something to one of my transgender friends, these changes allow that. These protected classes do not "elevate" one group over another, they simply protect and attempt to provide a level playing field to the marginalized.Why are we having politicians determine what medical treatments that a medical professional can do, when all the medical associations are in support of providing gender affirming care? It's honestly no surprise that these efforts that are driven by the republicans of Iowa are just one of the many reasons that the state is struggling to recruit doctors and other medical professionals to work here. I know that several of my transgender friends, and one of my friends who is getting their MD, have moved or are preparing to move because they clearly are not welcome here and so they can seek appropriate care without having a politician sticking their nose in patient care.Iowa used to be a great place to live, until the republicans started turning "Iowa Nice" into "Iowa Hate". If this passes, I'll be sad to leave this place that I've called home for the past 30 years, which is now only filled with hatred, and move to a place that's accepting of everyone.If you are for this bill or on the edge of voting for this bill, know that almost all of the public comments (https://www.legis.iowa.gov/committees/meetingPublicComment?meetingID=40117&action=viewCommitteePublicComments) are in opposition to this cruel bill. I also encourage you to watch the documentary "Will & Harper" that features the journey of Iowa City native Harper Steele who came out and see that transgender people are humans too.PLEASE LISTEN TO THE MAJORITY OF IOWANS THAT WANT TO BE IOWA NICE AND NOT DISCRIMINATE AGAINST ALREADY MARGINALIZED HUMANS! What's next after taking away these rights? Religious rights? Women's rights?
02-26-2025
Alan Lohff [None]
CON
This bill is abhorrent this year as its predecessors were in years past. It seeks only to allow for the further victimization and marginalization of a small and vulnerable group. It sets a dangerous precedent. If passed, Iowa would become the only State in US history to remove people from civil rights protection. This bill may not impact you personally, but what is next? Sexuality, sex, race? All easily on the chopping block. The laws restricting bigots from using their bigotry to oppress people in everyday life depend on this dying here and now.Iowa's state motto, as I am sure others have pointed out, is "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." I was always fond of that motto. It speaks well and directly to the character of the people of the State. What will it say if we let the legislature turn its back on the spirit of that motto by literally working to strip people of rights and liberties?
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Do to others, as you would have them do to you.
02-26-2025
Amanda Becker [N/A]
CON
I oppose this bill. This will harm so many Iowans and is not reflective of who we are as Iowans. We take care of our own. As a mother, this bill has me concerned raising a child here and the discrimination they might face. I grew up with an Iowa that welcomes everyone. This goes against this. Please vote no!
02-26-2025
Kristin Lee []
CON
CONAttempting to legalize discrimination is shameful. This is a shameful bill that does absolutely nothing to help the average Iowan.
02-26-2025
Tristan []
CON
I am asking for the bill HF 583 to not be passed. This bill is based off of fear and stereotypes of Trans people who just want to live as who they are by treating the medically known condition of Gender Dysphoria. Instead of trying to view this issue on the basis of empathy and love, this bill seems to be running on the basis of fear. We should be protecting our vulnerable populations from hate and bigotry they receive. We should not be stripping their protections because of the fear they are pedophiles, rapists, or any of the other offensive stereotypes floating around nowadays. These stereotypes are perpetuated by media organizations looking to stow fear and doubt in the American populace, not through goodwill reporting on issues. I am asking you all to look within yourselves and your values to notice the issue isnt a small subset of Iowans just trying to live their lives. Please do not give into fear and othering, but live through love and understanding. Do not pass this bill.
02-26-2025
Ella Miner []
CON
Please vote NO to this bill. This bill will strip every trans and gender nonconforming Iowan of their right to exist. We have always existed and being trans is NOT wrong. Trans people deserve the right to have housing, food, jobs, income, credit, the ability to have a bank, and everything else any cisgender, heterosexual person has. We do not have special privileges, we barely have rights. LET US LIVE. We will not back down when it is our lives on the line. To end, I leave you with this quote by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, "To those accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."
02-26-2025
Michael Maharry []
CON
I would like to register my strongest pleasure with the Bill. I feel it is hurtful and mean spirited and frankly unnecessary. Contrary to what the bills supporters feel, The bill will not protect women. Please vote against it.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Citizen ]
CON
As a retired Mental Health Professional and Special Education teacher, I am telling you this Bill is incredibly harmful. 1)Only a persons personal physician should be inspecting their genitals. 2) Some people are born with ambiguous genitalia.3) This law would put people in danger of arrest when traveling, including if their plane is diverted to a foreign airport for an emergency.4) It is a violation of of the Right to Privacy as protected in the Bill of Rights.I want you all to envision men & boys being forced to expose their genitals, often in the public streets, to determine if they were Jewish in the 1930s & 40s. At that time only Jews were circumcised, so this was a common practice by the Nazis. Yes I used that N word. Why, because this is THAT kind of a law.
02-26-2025
Brook Easton [Easton Design]
CON
I am a NO to this heinously criminal bill.Opening the door to stealing the human rights of any person is a gateway to all humans losing rights.Trans people have always been here and you will never erase them.
02-26-2025
Aden Grudzinski []
CON
02-26-2025
Kerry Goldsberry [Wife, Mother, Social Worker, Psychotherapist]
CON
I grew up and have lived my entire life in the state of Iowa, and my family has lived here for generations. I am a wife, mother of two teens, former educator and current social worker. Like you, I love our state and I am passionate about the health, safety and wellbeing of all Iowans.I am writing to ask you to reject HF 583, related to sex and gender. Our state constitution guarantees the right of all Iowans to safety and happiness and makes clear that we are free and equal. I am deeply concerned that this bill aims to remove "gender identity" from the civil rights code.While I do not personally identify as a gender that differs from my biologically defined sex, I do not presume to understand or speak for the experiences of others. It is my firm belief that transgender and gender nonconfirming folks are valid and beautiful, just like you and me. Transgender and gender nonconfirming individuals are trying to build a life in Iowa and deserve to have their rights and liberties maintained. This discriminatory bill is unnecessary at best and deeply harmful at worst. Any infringement on civil rights is a threat to us all. Denying the inalienable civil rights of transgender and gender nonconfirming individuals is dehumanizing and will lead to increased suicide and other related mental illness. It will also most certainly lead healthy, productive citizens to leave the state for more welcoming environments. Please reject this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
This bill makes Iowa less welcoming of a state and does not maintain our rights. Maintaining our rights is literally printed on our flag, yet we are virtue signaling the base and allowing extremists to write the narrative that there is some major issue with biological people feeling a different gender. The state needs to stay out of our closets and bedrooms by ensuring private businesses are not able to discriminate against us for living life the way we want. Living a lifestyle that does not conform to the Male/Female limitations does not hurt others. Why would we try to impose the values of others onto individuals? We should protect freedom of expression. The state has a role to maintain these protections, not remove them. It is deeply disturbing that there are law makers, not experts in the field of biology or medicine, who are trying to appeal to constituents who are also not experts. We are fighting over social issues while being robbed by the wealthy. Please stop wasting time with social issues like this and focus on large companies who get the social welfare. Focus on the largest employer in our state who pays wages so low that the Iowans are now using social benefits. Every Iowan working should be able to make a livable wage to afford a house, food, clothing, healthcare, leisure, and retirement. If employers are not doing this, then they are doing a disservice to Iowa at every level. Stop taking from our state and start building it better. Bills like this show that the focus is to keep the poor people fighting over stupid social issues rather than making the world a better place. Do better Iowa legislature, you're an embarrassment now.
02-26-2025
Nicole [No org, just angry at Iowa gov for this]
CON
Iowa doesnt want this. You are taking so much from future generations that dont agree with this. If you dont believe in a lifestyle or a choice, then dont do it. But in the government, thats not for you to dictate based on a religion. This is our money, our government, this isnt yours to take. Please Republicans, stand up and speak not for you want but for what your people actually want.
02-26-2025
Amethyst Barron []
CON
Looking back at the Iowa I grew up in, the Iowa that boasted the top public education scores in the country, the Iowa that was on the front line of legalizing same sex marriage, and comparing it to the Iowa of today... my heart breaks. What has happened to our hearts? Why are we governed by laws based on paranoia, why is our once welcoming nature now one built on fear and hate of our neighbors, on attempts to control and erase, when we should be uplifting and aiding the most vulnerable among us? I am not trans, I am a cis woman (and I am not so fragile to insist a simple categorical label to be some kind of slur) but I believe in the rights and dignity of my fellow human beings, even if they are different from me, even if I may not entirely understand. Are we all not promised in the Bill of Rights: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness? What possible justification is there for policing this pursuit in others, when it is their choice how to live their life, how to dress, how to speak, how to present themselves, how to feel about themselves, how to live in a way that brings them peace and comfort. No other group is denied these basic dignities. How is America the land of the free, if not all of her citizens are allowed to live freely? Why in the world is this anyone's business to decide but their own? I've heard again and again supposed counterpoints, about surgery on minors, about women's sports... and I am insulted by the smokescreen, because what we are talking about here and now is not sports or school children, but removing the civil protections for an entire group of human beings, of consenting adults, of taxpayers, of Americans. It is the call for banning the very mention of them in books and curriculum, it is attempting to dehumanize your fellow humans. If this concept does not terrify you to your core, then your hatred is more precious to you than your principles. There is no possible justification for this in a free America. Do you support freedom, or do you not? I know where I stand, and it is on the side of human dignity and rights for all among us, without exceptions.
02-26-2025
Heather Olson []
CON
Vote No to HSB 242. All human beings are born FREE! EQUAL in Dignity and Rights. Human rights are not a privilege! Trans rights are human rights!
02-26-2025
Ellyn Nitchals-Kellner [Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association]
CON
The Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) is a membership organization which represents over 800 licensed mental health counselors all across the state. IMHCA stands strongly against this legislation, and urges all legislators to oppose this bill. Removing gender identity from the civil rights code opens the door for an already marginalized group to face increased stigma and discrimination. The negative impact of politics on all youth, and especially LGBTQ+ youth is pronounced, and contributes to those youth and their families leaving states which are not LGBTQ+ friendly (The Trevor Project, 2025), and alarmingly, antitransgender laws have been attributable to rises in suicide attempts of trans youth, by as much as 72% in some states (Lee et al., 2024).Given that we are at a time of unprecedented mental health crises, removing basic civil rights protections is undoubtedly going to contribute to increased suffering for even more Iowans. Our membership will be directly impacted by trying to keep up with the ongoing and urgent increases in demand for mental health care as a result of this unnecessary attack on the basic civil rights of our fellow Americans. Please oppose this legislation and maintain civil rights protections for all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Martin Peterson [Retired citizen ]
CON
I am embarrassed to say I am from Iowa. Why are you focused on hateful legislation against Iowa citizens who work hard and pay taxes. Rights given are not frights taken away! Why the obsession with sex instead of economic development of rural Iowa?
02-26-2025
Joe Reilly []
CON
Why are we creating another way for citizens to be discriminated against?Why are we creating this 'us' not 'them' mentality?I think if you were to have someone in your personal life or experience gender disphoria or be born intersex yourself, this bill would never be brought up.Why don't we let people have their rights, even if it is not a right that applies to you?"Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain"
02-26-2025
Barbara Helmick []
CON
I'm 75 years old. Trans people have been with us forever. I've known several trans individuals over the years, good people. I now know several young people, a teenager and a 7th grader. I've listened to them. I've read reliable medical reports. They should be allowed to grow and flourish. Demonizing trans people is what is scary. This legislation is punishing people for who they are. What a sad day this is. Please, do. not support HF 583.
02-26-2025
Brittany Dueker []
CON
I do not support the changes in this bill (HF 583). Gender identity is protected for a reason and removing the civil rights of Iowa citizens is never the right course of action. Laws like this do nothing to prevent harm to anyone and in fact makes our state more dangerous to be in. Given the content and the public outcry, I am horrified that this bill has even made it past the subcommittee.
02-26-2025
Lisa Rock []
CON
Dear legislators:I urge you to uphold the civil rights of all Iowans and vote NO on SF418 and HF583. This legislation removes basic protections for transgender Iowans from the Iowa Civil Rights Act and other areas of Iowa Code and creates complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. I listened to the public hearing on HSB242, now HF583. As a cisgender woman, I found it patronizing and insulting to hear people claim this bill is needed to protect women. If you really care about women, you would give us back our bodily autonomy and access to health care. By the way, transgender women ARE women. If this bill is supposed to protect women, why are you taking away transgender women's civil rights?If you are concerned about bathroom safety, do away with public single sex multi stall facilities in favor of unisex "family" stalls, each its own enclosed floor to ceiling room with locking door. As a woman road tripping alone in the middle of the night in WY, I stopped at a rest area composed entirely of this type of restroom and felt much safer than in any "women's room".I heard people object to spending taxpayer $ on gender affirming care. I along with 70% of Iowans objected to this legislature and governor using my taxes to fund private schools that teach the kind of hate and disinformation I heard at the HSB242 hearing. Yet, republican legislators advanced and your governor signed that legislation. Apparently, public opinion only matters if it aligns with partisan agendas. Transgender Iowans are not an ideology or a theory. Transgender Iowans, like all Iowans, are human beings who deserve the same equal protections under law afforded to you and me. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide shelter for themselves and their families. HSB242 legalizes discrimination against Iowans who are transgender in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodation, education, and credit. This bill weakens protections for Iowans who are intersex and cisgender who dont fit rigid gender norms.My minister father taught me to treat others as I would want to be treated, to welcome the stranger, and to fight injustice with compassion and love for "all God's children." The Iowa Civil Rights Removal Act does not reflect these values. Upholding gender identity in Iowa's Civil Rights Act and Iowa Codeprotecting people who are transgender from discriminationdoes.Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote NO on SF418 and HF583!
02-26-2025
Pamela Mohr []
CON
If this bill passes, Iowa would be the FIRST STATE in the nation to REMOVE a protected class from our Civil Rights bill. If this bill is passed, it will impact almost everything an adult Iowan needs to function and thrive in our state, including employment, housing, public accommodations, education, banking, and insurance. This bill is cruel and unnecessary.
02-26-2025
Adiyaya Shamayunte [Iowa resident ]
CON
This legislation is highly discriminatory to a minority group here in Iowa. Iowa has much bigger problems (like pullution, a housing crisis, resources for the homeless, health insurance, a disappearing middle class, to name a few)How people identify and express themselves is the least of our worries. This legislation getting passed would be a huge step backwards for progress in this state and we will LOSE a bright, loving, community.The people in the minority group that is being ostracized here care more about civil, human and environmental rights more than any other group in Iowa. Can any republican say that?
02-26-2025
Whistle Blower [WarOnWomen.info]
CON
Is there an exception for hermaphrodites, babies born with ambiguous genetalia who have traditionally been encouraged to pick one gender and have surgery to affirm that choice?If not, what are your recommendations for those parents?If there is an exception for children born as hermaphrodites to receive genderaffirming care, which politicians will be doing the genital inspections to confirm the exception?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Jackson County Democrats]
CON
Trans rights are human rights and the Republican move to remove protection for transgender Iowans from the civil rights code will deny them protection against discrimination in employment, wages, public accommodations, housing, education and credit practices. Furthermore, there is clearly evidence that there are more than two sexes, or that the sexes interact naturally in different ways.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
People shouldn't have to conform to boxes that other people feel they should fit into.
02-26-2025
Erica Finken []
CON
I OPPOSE HSB 242. This bill removes civil rights from specific groups of humans. Our constitution states we are all created equal this bill directly contradicts that and is part of a republican campaign to victimize trans and gender nonconforming people. Please do not legislate hate reject this bill.
02-26-2025
Mike Foster []
CON
I am opposed to this bill. Civil rights should be respected and not reduced.
02-26-2025
Valerie Earnest [Citizen]
CON
Trans people always have existed and always will exist. This bill is hatred and nothing more. What happened to Iowa nice?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Wartburg Theological Seminary]
CON
I am in complete opposition of this bill. In diversity we find beauty. In humanity we find diverse people who must be protected, not diminished and excluded into oblivion. We must pass legislation that provides a future of authentic inclusivity for all people. All.
02-26-2025
Vonda Johnston []
CON
I vehemently oppose thos bill. I've seen some Reps say that this doesn't take rights away, but that is just cognitive dissonance talking. Rights and protections are being taken away. Trans people's lives and livelihood are at stake. Please have a heart and vote NO.
02-26-2025
Neil Salowitz [none]
CON
I am 73 years old, married to the same woman for over 50 years. I have two daughters and five grandchildren. No one in my family is threatened by trans people. My wife and daughters have much more to fear from straight men than they do from trans women using a woman's bathroom. The trans people I know are just trying to live their lives in peace and dignity.Taking existing civil rights away from a small and vulnerable group of Iowans is despicable. This is not a women's issue or a religious freedom issue, as some conservatives claim. this is not protective of trans kids. It's an attempt to harm a very small and vulnerable population of Iowans who want nothing more or less than the civil rights shared by ALL Iowans. Please vote no on HF583. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I write this as a medical professional and private citizen wishing to oppose removing gender identity from the Iowa civil rights code. I believe this affects health and wellness in multiple ways, most importantly This bill strips gender identity as a protected class in cases of employment, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit/lending. A law that allows for no recourse for discrimination will result in upstream actions that have impacts on the physical and mental health of real people. The removal of civil rights from a population that already suffers from disparate health outcomes is a public health concern.Additionally, the language in this bill is not specific enough and may end up negatively affecting those with differences in sexual differentiation who do not fit into the binary 46XX female and 46XY male. There are people who biologically have different sex chromosomes, but are assigned a specific gender based on their physical characteristics at birth. This law will overshadowed their rights and the rights of those who are intersex and cannot easily fit into the binary. As a pediatric endocrinologist, this will have significant negative health effects on multiple populations of my patients and will have a negative effect on our children in the state of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Elizabeth Marie Clark [Self]
CON
I and most other Iowans do not support legislation that leads to discrimination of the people of Iowa. Those that continue to support this oppression will eventually be seen as undermining democracy for a fascist regime. Our elected officials took an oath to serve and protect the people so that the people can live freely. I expect the elected officials of this state to act with their best judgment over their own personal will. I have faith that all who follow their oath will do the right thing.
02-26-2025
John deere jr. [United States of America]
CON
Fix the dirty water and lack of industry before you attack our civil rights
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No one is being harmed with the present civil rights protections in place. Surely there are more important things to work on rather than stripping rights away from a fraction of a percent of the states population. Do better.
02-26-2025
Alicia Youngberg []
CON
Stop taking away civil rights and liberties!! How hard is this??! Be decent humans!!
02-26-2025
Melanie Nollsch []
CON
My faith teaches me that all are beloved of God. Transgendered Iowans are loved and have the right to the same civil rights of all Iowans. What purpose does it serve to strike them from those protected by our laws? It serves no purpose but to discriminate. This is a decision made out of fear and hate. I ask that you stand for the rights of all and vote against this discriminatory bill.
02-26-2025
Marie []
CON
trans rights are human rights
02-26-2025
William Renk []
CON
There is no justification for this beyond your desire to strip rights away from people, especially children and young adults, who do not fit your narrow, religiously motivated opinion of sex and gender.Passage of this bill will increase suffering. This is cruelty, plain and simple.History disagrees with you. Science disagrees with you.Fix your hearts.
Attachment
02-26-2025
Maggie Arnold [Iowa]
CON
Trans rights are human rights.
02-26-2025
Gail Schneider []
CON
Civil rights are for everyone, including trans people, LGBTQ, people of color and women.
02-26-2025
Scout Kuehn []
CON
Taking away human rights simply because a group of people is different than you is inhumane. You do not need to keep cycling this hate. You have a chance to end the cycle.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
It's unfair to take away the civil rights of Iowans. We should be promoting diversity instead of trying to squander it.
02-26-2025
Ryley Seymour [ ]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am vehemently and wholeheartedly AGAINST this bill. This is tragic, it is beyond shameful. Iowa is and always has been a state that prides itself on common sense, on liberty, on personal freedom. But this is nonsensical. We should not be a state that enables hate. We will now go down in history for the wrong reasons, for stripping honest Iowans of their right to exist free of discrimination. How dare you use women as a shield with one hand while attacking us with the other. Your bill not only harms trans people, it harms ALL women.OUR LIBERTIES WE PRIZE AND OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN.
02-26-2025
Helena Mica []
CON
There is no reason to do this other than cruelty for cruelty's sake. A state has never revoked civil rights recognition before and Iowa should not be the first. There is so much physical diversity among people (e.g. women with short hair and small breasts, men with small frames and wider hips, much more) that there is no way to ethically enforce this. People would have to be subjected to invasive procedures just to use a changing room. This opens up the floodgates to abuse people en masse. This should NOT be permitted.
02-26-2025
Ashlie Elizabeth Timm []
CON
Hello. I was so disappointed and hurt when I heard of this legislation. I have attended many Pride events in Iowa and around the country. I always felt comforted by the fact that Iowa in the past has been progressive in it's stance in regards to LGBTQ+ rights. I wish everyone here had the opportunity to attend a pride event. You would see what I have seen so many times. I have witnessed Queens dancing and singing, with children, along with their families cheering along. I've been able to see our trans community come out of the shadows and help by volunteering at events in the community. Whether it be by reading Alice in Wonderland at our local Pride event, or helping set up and tear down at our town's Art Center. There has never been anything sexual or vulgar in how my trans friends and neighbors have given back to their hometown. I am against this truly unholy and immoral legislation. It is an affront to the equal rights of our state. Please vote to help Iowa continue to move forward.
02-26-2025
Taylor Magnuson []
CON
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state and am writing in strong opposition of this bill. This bill will have strong negative impacts on the mental health of trans folks, a group who is already at greater risk of mental health issues, including suicide. This type of legislation is the antithesis of our ethics and training as mental health counselors and will have impacts on therapistss willingness to practice in the state of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Katelynn Nank [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Gloria Zmolek []
CON
I am horrified that this legislation is being proposed. It makes me ashamed to call myself an Iowan, my state of birth and the state I have lived in for 74 years. This legislation is harmful and discriminatory to a very small segment of the population of our state. In no way will this legislation will do anything to protect the citizens of our state. It will only serve to punish people and take away their freedoms. It will create division in a time when we need our politicians to lead the way to bring our citizens back together. Please put your politics aside and look into your hearts and vote against this legislation that will help no one but will hurt innocent people whose only crime is being themselves.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [A human being]
CON
02-26-2025
Jared h Kline []
CON
This is villainous. In particular, the language "separate does not mean unequal" shows a lack of knowledge of American history that should disqualify the writers of this bill from being listened to by serious adults, interested in governance.Do not let bigotry and fear cause you to treat trans Iowans in this unAmerican away. Remember, real Iowans prize our liberties and maintain our rights. We do not seek to strip them from others, like peepants bigots.
02-26-2025
Dara []
CON
Hi. My name is Dara. I am an Iowa citizen and student who is concerned for her future here. As a trans woman, I am very much against removing people like me from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. I am also confused about what social good you or your colleagues are trying to bring about with this change. Please let me know so I can understand. I just want to live my life in peace, be at liberty to make my own decisions, and pursue a happy life. I thought that was the point of being an American.I lived as a man for about 26 years. I tried my hardest to fit in, to be normal. For the longest time I convinced myself that I cant really be trans, I dont feel strongly enough, or maybe if I transitioned when I was younger but is it still worth it? This way of thinking was a poison. It made me feel like I couldnt be liked that people would reject me if they knew what I was, and it made me hate myself. It was hard to do anything because how can you get up and do what must be done when you cant see a happy future for yourself. On several occasions, I strongly considered taking my life. But I eventually decided, if I had nothing else to lose I might as well TRY and be myself.Those I talked to were a lot kinder and accepting than I could imagine. Over time, I learned that most people I interacted with at least tolerated but often were very welcoming to me and my identity. That is why I firmly believe that the slew of antitrans legislation isnt indicative of the everyday people. This once again makes me question why it is that these laws are being put in place. What is worth all the pain and suffering that this bill will cause? I cant change the fact that Im trans any more than I can change when I was born. I tried to Afight it, and I would have died if I kept fighting it. So why are you or your colleagues trying to take away protection for something so immutable? I want to live. Become a professor someday. Teach about the joys of mathematics and explore the edge of human understanding. Perhaps even push it just a bit further. But instead, it looks like I am not welcome here. One way or another, this bill will make it untenable to live here anymore. And for what?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Iowans are not in favor of rolling back individual rights. This bill does just that. To the extent there may be issues with potentially conflicting rights of trans Iowans vs. the general public in certain areas, such as public accommodations where privacy is a concern, and fair competition in athletics, these conflicts can be rectified by addressing them directly in legislation and providing clear public policy concerning prioritization of competing rights. It is unnecessary to terminate the basic rights of all individuals to be free from discrimination in employment, housing, credit, public accommodation, and education, due to their immutable characteristics, including their gender identity and/or expression.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am very concerned that Iowa is going to be the first state in the union to remove a protected group from it's civil rights act. As a state I thought we were kind enough to let people be, but these past years have proven otherwise.This bill will not only drastically affect the lives of those who are not born within the defined gender binary, or those who choose to identify with their gender at birth, this will affect anyone who may not look "manly" or "womanly" enough. It opens the door to speculation and discrimination based on how you look, how you talk, how you are perceived, and the burden of proof has been put on the person being judged. If you have ever been mistaken for another gender, this will affect you.To those that still support this bill, I hope the egg prices were worth someone else's rights.
02-26-2025
Catherine Schaff-Stump []
CON
You cannot imagine someone out of existence. How dare you turn this into a state of hate!
02-26-2025
Ray Kieffer []
CON
02-26-2025
Ashley Kirvin [Social worker]
CON
This bill is absolutely abhorrent. Making life harder for trans folks will accomplish nothing but furthering hate and discrimination. We have done that in the past with a MULTITUDE of different groups. Let's not do it again and expect a different outcome.
02-26-2025
Joshua Brown [Iowa State Education Association ]
CON
The Iowa State Education Association is committed to supporting all our students regardless of ability, neighborhood, circumstances, or identity. Every student who walks through our doors is entitled to be supported and nurtured so they can grow and learn. As educators, we know that each student has unique needs, and it is our responsibility to meet everyone where they are and treat them with respect and dignity. HF 583, which strips gender identity from Iowas Civil Rights Code, will unfairly target some of our most vulnerable students from the protection they deserve.This is a pivotal moment in the story of our state and how we treat our citizens and particularly, how we treat our children. Will we be remembered for our support for all or will the story be that some of our children are less worthy than others?Please oppose HF 583. Our students are counting on the adults in the room to have their best interests at heart. To be without judgement and instead, be the advocates that make the difference. Iowas public schools are home to more than 90% of the student population. Focusing our efforts on the tools and resources for Iowas next generation to grow and prosper should be our number one priority. Lets all gather together for that task so the story of our state will be about greatness, not division.Remember that our full and unbiased support gives all children the opportunity to achieve their full potential. We can all agree this is a worthwhile goal. Please oppose this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
I would urge the legislature to pass into law HF583 (formerly HSB242. We need to stop this crazy new habit of letting men into womens locker rooms and bathrooms. Iowa law needs to specify that gender means your sex and not your sexual identity. I am tired of my rights being changed because of a small group of people with a mental disorder.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I don't support this at all. Trying to change the definition of what equal treatment means is flatout dangerous. With the price of eggs being what they are, almost every bridge in the state being deemed structurally deficient, roads falling apart, our water supply being poisoned by runoff from farms, the list of things this state needs goes on and on, messing around with what a sex means and what it doesn't shouldn't even be on anyone's radar.
02-26-2025
Kyle Hale [Knoxville High School GSA]
CON
This bill could very much cause the deaths either by suicide or, worst case scenario, murder for many trans and gender nonconfirming individuals, including myself. I am a transgender male living in a small, mainly conservative, town and I fear for my life every day when I go outside. This bill will cause trans and gender nonconfirming kids to close themselves off from the world and, like I said, possibly even commit suicide. Please rethink this bill before you kill innocent people, especially minors. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Jenny Cruz [Resident and parent]
CON
Im angry that you claim to be protecting women and children with this law. That is manipulative. Make a new sports section for Trans people why do you care? Why make this such a big issue? The process for trans care requires 2 year of therapy, so if youre right and theyre not trans theyll figure it out in those 2 years. Instead you plan to withhold care. I dont want anyone to lose their civil rights. I dont want trans people to feel unwelcome in my community. You are making decisions that hurt our communities and lying about your motives. Do some real work that uplifts Iowans.
02-26-2025
Debra Walkinshaw [Mine]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please do not allow this harmful legislation pass.
02-26-2025
Carolyn R Kelly []
CON
02-26-2025
Natasha Trilk []
CON
02-26-2025
Emily Allaire [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Emily Welder [None]
CON
I am a physician, an Iowan, and a cisgender female. This bill is a disgrace.1. At its heart, it is conceptually cruel to no longer protect trans individuals from discrimination. Those of you who are pushing this billdo any of you know anyone who is trans or nonbinary? Like really know? People do not identify with these gender orientations for attention, to make your life difficult, or when they are "just in a phase." These are real people whose lives a bill like this aims to harm. Your role as elective representatives is to HELP the people of Iowa. You are not helping in any way with this bill. This is a discriminatory bill that is not protecting cisgender women that is a fallacy.2. If you disagree with the above, the other huge violation of this is the aboutface to remove protections for people. This bill does not aim to uphold women's rights, but rather it strips the rights of trans individuals. This is truly horrid to begin stripping rights from people. Where will you stop?
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
HF583 please vote no on this bill. We should not allow discrimination in any form, even if it is something we feel uncomfortable with. Human dignity to care for others should outweigh anything else. Please realize that voting yes is hurtful and accomplishes nothing.
02-26-2025
Anne Kennedy Salamon []
CON
The main proponents of this bill are evangelical "Christians". They want to use the Bible to justify their own fear mongering opinion. There is no documented evidence that men are faking to be trans women in order to assault women. This smacks of a time of not wanting to have Blacks use the same bathroom as whites. I also find it hard to believe that trans girls/women would flaunt their private parts to try to intimidate cis girls/women. In fact, it is the complete opposite as they are selfconscious of their body image. Some proponents would have us believe that we need to "Protect Women and Children", when in fact statistics show that trans women are more likely to be assaulted, esp when using men's rooms! Trans individuals just want to be allowed to live their lives. Iowa has a wide range of various religions and a wide range of Christian denominations and a significant population of "none of the above". We are not a theocracy. My own denomination, Episcopal, believes in the respect and dignity of all people. Iowa is a pluralistic society and as such should support the civil rights of ALL Iowans! Do not set a state, a NATIONAL precedent of removing the rights of a type or class of persons. Who's next? Disabled people (they cost the state a lot of money...)? Brown people? Nonchurch going people? Nonevangelical church people?
02-26-2025
Rev. Katie Styrt [none]
CON
It would be shameful to approve this bill and take rights away from Iowans. A person's gender identity is no reason to discriminate against them, whether they are cis, trans, or gender nonconforming. Allowing legal discrimination on the basis of gender identity would also discourage businesses and nonprofits from holding events in Iowa. Our state should be better than this.
02-26-2025
Sarah Wirth []
CON
Please OPPOSE this bill. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family, and coworkers. All hardworking people including those who are transgender should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state.The bill weakens protections for other Iowans who are intersex and cisgender who dont fit rigid gender norms.Taking away protections from a group of people who have been historically discriminated against is not right. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Marti Anderson [Former State Representative]
CON
Our flag carries the words "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. I am appalled that elected officials would consider taking the rights promised in our civil rights law from people for whom they hold contempt. Science, does not support this move. You seem not to have heard the voices of Iowans against this bill. It is wrong, it is unIowan, it is unAmerican. Vote NO.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
I am vehemently against this. This will negatively affect the livelihoods of thousands of Iowans. Not just transgender people.
02-26-2025
Marcus Albers []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Martha Jackson []
CON
There is no need for this bill. When gender identity was added it was in response to Iowans being denied civil rights. Iowa has a long history of leading the nation in civil rights and living up to the state motto: "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain." The removal of 1.6% of the population runs counter to our stated values.
02-26-2025
Ashley Fox []
CON
As an educator and a mother, I am appalled that this bill is even being considered for a moment. ALL Iowans deserve to be who they are without fear of discrimination. Children are watching this unravel, and very quickly they are learning who they are safe and unsafe to be around based on who is adamantly supporting this deplorable bill. The LGBTQ+ community has always ALWAYS been around. The reason we see more around today is because these individuals finally got to a point where the majority of the population no longer made them feel the need to hide or to end their lives for being different. Sexual identity is absolutely not something that should make or break whether or not someone has the right to a good and decent life. Sexual identity should not dictate whether or not someone has the right to safety. Civil rights are not and should never be up for debate. We have an obligation to protect ALL of our fellow Iowans, regardless of whether their lifestyles mirror that of our own. Dont be fooled, anyone supporting this bill cannot do so while also claiming to be for the people or wanting a better world. For any members of the LGBTQ+ community reading this: we see you, we love you, and we are fighting for you. You deserve better.
02-26-2025
Tammy DeBord []
CON
I am opposed to anti lgbtq+ legislation.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I'm not in favor of the Removal of Gender Identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
02-26-2025
Laurel Zmolek-Smith [N/a]
CON
As an educator, I see how complicated life already is for my trans students. They are some of the most vulnerable among us and deserve to be protected, not attacked.
02-26-2025
Maria Epperly [--]
CON
Everyone deserves basic rights to housing, employment, safety, health, and privacy. Trans people have always existed and always will. This bill will not change that. It will, however, further discriminate against the trans community. This is a stepping stone towards mass hate and discrimination against all minorities. I will always support the trans community and I DO NOT support what Iowa is doing. This will set us back DECADES.
02-26-2025
Kara Huss []
CON
02-26-2025
Kimberly Graham []
CON
Please do not pass this legislation. First, people, especially young people and kids, will harm themselves over this bill. Even one precious life lost is one too many. Secondly, everyone should be able to rent an apartment or be hired for a job without being denied just due to their gender or gender identity. To remove those protections, and others, from anyone is wrong, there's no other way to say it. Please do what's right. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Tania Schramm [Grace Lutheran Church - Adel]
CON
I strongly OPPOSE HF583. I am a lifelong resident of Iowa, and I have never seen an attempt to remove the civil rights from people in our state. This legislation would not protect anyone or solve any of the critical issues facing Iowans today. Instead, it would among other provisions strip transgender Iowans of protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act and weaken protections for intersex and cisgender Iowans who dont fit rigid gender norms.HSB242 does not reflect science or morality or compassion.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Macasek [n/a]
CON
Please get rid of this bill. It will encourage discrimination against an already vulnerable population. People should have the freedom of selfexpression, including the expression of the gender identity of their choice, and they should not be penalized in seeking housing, healthcare, employment, or more because of their gender identity or gender expression.
02-26-2025
Kathy Colton [Self]
CON
Please vote NO on this horrible bill that will strip civil rights from a targeted group of people. LGBTQ+ individuals are entitled to the same civil rights as anyone else. This is disgraceful. God's promise to care for ALL of the children of God, means EVERYONE. And we should do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Regardless of gender identity. Please do the brave thing and stand up to those who want to open the door to discrimination by taking away their civil rights. Vote NO on this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Im a medical student at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, and as a future physician, I urge you to reject HF583, a bill that removes essential protections for transgender Iowans.As a future healthcare provider, I believe all Iowans, including transgender individuals, deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. Removing basic antidiscrimination protections harms their ability to access healthcare, housing, employment, and credit, which can lead to worse health outcomes. Transgender people are our neighbors, friends, and family. Please vote against HF583.Personally, I grew up in Cedar Rapids where I met my best friend of 23 years who is nonbinary, and my brother's partner of 5 years who is also nonbinary. I can't imagine that the state they've lived in their entire lives would remove discrimination protections for their gender identity. Please, there is no reason either of these amazing people should be legally allowed to be discriminated against.
02-26-2025
Brian []
CON
People should be free to explore who they are.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Karen Jubeck [Citizen]
CON
My name is Karen Jubeck, writing to ask you to reject HSB242. This bill would remove basic civil rights protections for some Iowans. Im an Academic Advisor at Northeast Iowa Community college and Ive been committed to serving ALL students equally in this role for the past 17 years. When you have a chance to get to know people from all walks of life, including those of the majority who live in poverty, on the margins due to situations of all kinds, one learns to understand we are all the same. We all have the same needs, and we all should have the same rights. Ive worked with white students from affluent families, as well as students that live in poverty, students with disabilities, all ethnics and genderswhite, African American, Hispanic, Marshallese, international students, and of course, LGBTQ students. The legislature, the governor, the president, no one can erase these groups no matter how much hate they spew. They can make life harder, they can punish and persecute individuals but these groups will always be with us. I chose to serve on the side of love and nonjudgmental acceptance, because I want to be the best that I can bebring my best self to serving students each day. That does not include hate. What side will you choose? Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HSB242. Thank you,Karen Jubeck
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill, and others like it, are part of the reason why nazis feel free to match through our streets. "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." You're talking about taking liberty away from people. You're talking about dismantling their rights. I'm not asking you to condone trans people. I'm asking you to give them room to exist. Allow them the liberty and rights to live their lives with dignity and freedom. If a trans man fully transitions, with a beard and male genitalia, should that person be forced to use a women's restroom? People would have a fit. The state should not have jurisdiction over a persons body. If we hold our liveries as a prize, we should recognize that none of us would want this type of intrusion by the government. It's none of your business. Just let these people live their lives. Stop sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
This proposed bill is against the spirit of the constitution and will hurt more people than it could ever protect
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Zach Grissom [none]
CON
Im a medical student at the University of Iowa, and as a future physician, I urge you to reject HF583, a bill that removes essential protections for transgender Iowans.I spent 9 years in the Navy, there I learned that the people to your left and right are often all you have to rely on to accomplish the task at hand. As a young kid from Iowa, I was working with and for Sailors and Marines of vastly different backgrounds than my own, but that didn't prevent us from recognizing the shared values we had as Americans, to care for each other and be able to work together on hard problems.As a future healthcare provider, a Navy Veteran, and former registration clerk at a rural Iowa hospital, I believe all Iowans, including transgender individuals, deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. Removing basic antidiscrimination protections harms their ability to access healthcare, housing, employment, and credit, which will lead to worse health outcomes. I believe there are many hard problems in our state more deserving of attention than this, which will not be improved by HF583.Transgender people are our neighbors, friends, and family. Please vote against HF583.
02-26-2025
Stacy Streit []
CON
02-26-2025
Madalyn Grask []
CON
HF 583 is a disgusting, discriminatory, and dehumanizing bill. Please vote 'No' on this bill and protect the rights of Transgender and NonBinary Iowans to live in a way that is true to themselves.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am troubled that our state is prioritizing taking away rights from citizens and making the case that trans individuals are somehow a threat to society, children, etc. This legislation is hateful and targeted.
02-26-2025
Michael Acevedo [Private citizen]
CON
Oppose obviously
02-26-2025
Demonica L Thomas [N/a]
CON
I had always considered Iowa to be one of the good guys. From being the fist to legalize same sex marriage, to being one of the first to allow single women to own property. Iowa has a very rich progressive history, it's even on our flag "rights we will maintain" what I am struggling to understand is how taking away a person's rights upholds the states motto. This will be the first time in Iowa's history that it has actively removed rights from its people. Attacking a group that barely takes up 1% of the national population is not only discriminatory but also a waste of tax payer money when we have real issues that should be focused on instead of how others choose to live their lives. They are not hurting anyone around them. I know we sometimes fear the things we do not understand however, we do not have to understand something in order to respect it
02-26-2025
Rev. Lee Roorda Schott [Collegiate United Methodist Church & Wesley Foundation]
CON
Transgender rights are human rights, and deserve to be protected. It is immoral to eliminate legal protection of our transgender siblings, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens. Doing so is an invitation to discrimination, and to remove these human beings from full participation in public life. As a follower of Jesus Christ and an ordained pastor, I take seriously Jesus' call to treat others as we want to be treated. We all want to live our lives free from unjust interference and fearful exclusion. God's love is unconditional. In our fallen world, including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination upholds Gods promise, which always affords special care for those most vulnerable. Please find the courage to say NO to this bill and uphold the civil rights our leaders worked so hard to enshrine in Iowa's law.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Human ]
CON
Removal of civil rights protections for ANY identity class of citizens HUMANS, is abhorrent and should NEVER occur.
02-26-2025
Catherine Daly Krahe []
CON
Any bill stripping protections from trans citizens is wrong; this one is obscene. This bill means that my kids' friends will leave the state, that my friends and coworkers will leave the state, and that eventually my family will leave the state, because how can we live somewhere our families can't even visit? I realize the governor and legislature don't care about morals, but on a practical basis, surely 'and then people leave' makes a difference.
02-26-2025
Caryn Frederiksen [Self]
CON
02-26-2025
Jessi Galligan []
CON
I implore you to vote against the passage of HF 583. The fact that this bill even exists is horrific and backwards. Taking away the rights of fellow human beings, fellow Iowans, is not an option. Trans people are my friends, my colleagues. They deserve to be protected in the same way as everyone else. This bill is BAD for Iowa and Iowans, and its passage would have detrimental ripple effects throughout the state. Please do the right thing and maintain the rights of your fellow Iowans.
02-26-2025
Cori Burbach [Na]
CON
02-26-2025
Mark Signs [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I cannot attend the hearing on this bill, but wanted to let my position be known. As a lifelong Iowans, it saddens, outrages, and amazes me to know that Iowa could be the first state in the history of this country to actually TAKE AWAY someone's existing, codified rights. That is what this bill does.I also continue to be amazed at the fascination the Republican party has with transgender people. What have these folks done to you or anyone else, for that matter? These are people who are merely trying to live their own lives as they believe them to be. Who are we (or you) to question that, or to demand that they change WHO THEY ARE? EVERY LEGITIMATE study or organization accepts that gender identity is real and should be embraced and supported. Every day, tens of thousands of young people and adults are dealing with their expression of their own true selves. Sometimes they are actually struggling with the issue themselves, because OTHERS (usually unqualified others) are telling them it is wrong or immoral or unGodly. And sometimes those struggles lead to these precious people our fellow citizens taking their own lives, out of anguish or confusion. Let me say that again, so you hear this again: People are killing themselves because someone (or some political party) is is telling them they are bad people and/or not protecting them.Passing this bill will send a strong and hateful message to these folks, saying our state thinks they are lesser than others, they are bad, and/or they deserve to suffer because of the gender orientation that GOD HIMSELF has assigned to them. Passing this bill will lead to Iowans killing themselves, I have no doubt. The blood will be on your hands.But lets talk other realities ones that you actually care about. Young people are leaving this state by the thousands because young people don't find this state welcoming or progressive. And thousands more do not see Iowa as a viable option to move TO, for the same reasons. Make no mistake, young people basically consider the transgender issue a NONISSUE. Numerous polls have repeatedly shown that the VAST MAJORITY of young people have no problem with transgendered people or their rights to exist in peace at all. So in a time when this State is desperately trying to keep and attract young workers, to grow our economy, and to become a more welcoming state, bills like this do just the opposite. They deter Iowans from staying in Iowa and they deter nonIowans from moving into the state. And you are lying to yourselves if you think this is not true.For the past few years, the leadership of this state (and of the Republican party nationwide) have made transgendered people out to be some "nefarious boogeymen" wreaking havoc and mayhem throughout the country. To be blunt, they have made a NONISSUE a SUPPOSED issue. And they (you) need to stop!Leave Transgendered Iowans Alone! And assure them of the same basic civil rights and liberties given to ALL Iowans. And make sure that others do not take that away from them and are not able to cause them harm based solely on their lived and true gender identity.Please and Thank You!Mark Signs
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am a cisgender person who this bill wont affect, but I also could not care less about knowing someones assigned sex at birth. All I ever need to know is what they tell me about themselves in the moment, and that is all that should matter to anyone else. Its very creepy that people think they should be allowed to know more than that about a person.
02-26-2025
Melissa Kinney [None]
CON
I am disappointed to see this coming from my home state of Iowa, a state which has a long history of leading the nation in civil rights advancements. I urge you to reject this dangerous bill, and show the country that discrimination against any population will not be tolerated. Iowa must defend civil rights for ALL!
02-26-2025
Michael R. Johnson []
PRO
The human race has two genders, male and female. A quote from the late Rev. Billy Graham is "The Pilgrim families and Founding Fathers had a high view of what our nation should be under God. They believed that faith in God and reverence for Him gave man dignity and they sought the guidance of Almighty God. We should do the same."
02-26-2025
Jeff []
CON
This bigoted, antiChristian bill is an embarrassment to Iowa and anyone who supports it. The lack of empathy and humanity is nothing short of disgusting. It takes a special kind of coward to try and legislate rights away from the smallest, most vulnerable groups in your community. This bill is not helpful to anyone, and is actively harmful to those citizens that you, as our government, are sworn to protect. Reject. This. Bill.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Kingery []
CON
Removing protections under the law for gender identification that is determined by the individual, rather than the "sex assigned at birth",is wrong on so many levels. This bill essentially legalizes discrimination (and potentially even more harm) to a segment of our population, and must not be allowed. All. Iowans.deserve. equal. protection. Vote NO on HF583
02-26-2025
Scott Mavin []
CON
Because every Iowan deserves to be treated fairly and without fear of discrimination.
02-26-2025
Vicki Scott []
CON
I oppose changes to the Iowa Civil Rights Bill, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Russell Silvis []
CON
I'm a manager. A leader. An Eagle Scout. I have worked alongside, below, and above people of all types. Of all walks of life. People like you, people like me. And people nothing like either of us. People of all races, walks of life, sexual orientations, and genders.This bill intends to remove protections that allow members of our fine state to work and live without fear of reprisal. They will leave the workforce, regardless of if you think they should have to or not. Productivity, MY team's productivity, will go down. Towns, small and large, will lose out on labor due to fear of reprisal. Decisions like this aren't a single decision as they seem to be. They will ripple out, reduce productivity and economic development in towns large and small across Iowa.As you well know, the cost to replace a seasoned employee, be they a cashier or an engineer, is astronomical. Even at the lowest levels, the training process costs a minimum of $1000 a person. We will lose members of the workforce. We will lose productivity. We will lose taxes. We will risk investment interest from companies large and small in our state. When someone leaves the traditional workforce because of fear of reprisal, they often end up in nontraditional, lowproductivity, or illegal jobs. Iowa will lose out if this happens. If this bill passes.There is also a very large risk in this bill to increase instances of violent crimes against those who previously were protected by the Iowa Civil Rights Act. One such case has already made headlines. It was described by investigators as "by far the worst" homicide he had investigated. Violent crimes are harrowing. For families, for officers, for communities, for our country. Whenever you consider removing protection from a group, regardless of how much you fear they might harm the fabric of our society, you must remember: bad actors WILL take this as an excuse to dehumanize, harass, and harm their fellow man, even if that is not the intent of this bill. We have seen this happen time and time again in history.This is an inflection point. A point in history. Even if you disagree with me on what is to be done, we can all agree, this will go into the annals of the history of the great state of Iowa. If not the country as a whole. There is a legacy that will be remembered here, your legacy and mine. So I beg you, consider carefully our state's motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." Do not forsake the rights of thousands of Iowans, do not. Do not.Yours, Truly,Russell SilvisProud Homeowner on a Main St., Iowa town.
02-26-2025
Elizabeth Konrardy []
CON
02-26-2025
Sander Cissne []
CON
This is absolutely vile and disgraceful. There is no reason to implement this along as well as other active antitrans bills other than an attempt to erase and demean trans persons from what historically has been known as the "Great State" of Iowa. I strongly oppose this and want to see our legislatures vote in favor of what the people of Iowa want, not what is in their personal or religious interests.
02-26-2025
Michael Maxwell []
CON
Things supporters of legislation like HF 583 need to explain:1) how does the state benefit from bullying a small, vulnerable minority of Iowans? Whats the vested interest of the government in persecuting transgender people?2) what do you have to say to transgender Iowans right now about why you value them less than your other constituents?3) how is this not the first step of genocide? Whats the logical endpoint of all this hateful legislation that seeks to exclude Iowans from society?4) do you enjoy irresponsible, dangerous legislation that is so unconstitutional itll be tied up in courts forever at taxpayer expense? 5) why is a law meant to harm innocent Iowans a good use of our legislative resources?You were all elected to serve ALL Iowans including our transgender Iowans and their families. Your job is not to make life insufferable for a small group of people just so you can try and score clout points with MAGA World. This is evil. Never again means never again for ANYONE this includes LGBTQIA+ people. If you vote to strip transgender Iowans of their right to exist, you will be remembered forever for standing on the wrong side of history. I cannot believe were doing this in 2025, and Im ashamed of Iowa these days. We will never keep young, intelligent people in this state if our government is so insistent on creating an inhospitable Iowa. I dont care if you like trans people you dont get to eradicate them with legislation like this. Thats not your right nor do you have that power.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Replant]
CON
Instead of big swings and removing of rights can we instead reexamine and make more comprehensive?This bill is dangerous as written and would remove protection for T (in LGBT). If we are worried about bathrooms and locker rooms could we not instead create a "whomever" room? We have this in many locations already (family room).If we are worried about indecent exposure that is a very different question with different considerations.Trans people are veterans, friends, family. They deserve to be protected by the law as free Americans. United we stand, divided we fall. Iowa is a beautiful and diverse state. Des Moines, our Capital is successful. Let's continue that tragectory.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not believe this bill helps Iowans. I believe the state should not be involved in people's personal lives or define gender in this way. I do not think gender identity should be removed as a protected class.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Trans people are people and the deserve the same rights as everyone else!
02-26-2025
Martha Craig Shaw []
CON
This is a cruel and unnecessary bill. It's bad for Iowa. VOTE NO.
02-26-2025
Tiana Robison []
CON
Please do not support this cruel legislation. I hold my young neighbor in my heart as I write this. I fear I will lose a great kid who helps shovel my snow, who brings a smile every time I see him. This legislation may mean he has to move. He's bright, cheerful, what a loss to our state. Shame on you for making him the enemy.
02-26-2025
Graham Bechman []
CON
I urge you not to pass this brazenly discriminatory bill, which serves only to make the lives of trans Iowans worse. It's bills like this that are contributing to Iowa's reputation as a hateful, backwards state, and pushing young Iowans (such as myself) to move to places that don't actively discriminate against the citizens they're supposed to be serving.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
We love and don't fear trans. There is no good reason to take away their or anyone's rights!
02-26-2025
Allen Coffin []
CON
Inclusion of those with gender identity concerns in the protections affected by these two bills harms no one. Protections against discrimination based on anything other than one's abilities are BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS. Extending these protections to those with gender identity issues merely acknowledges that they are human beings whose presence in our society is valuable. To remove these protections declares that they are less than other members of our communities. I urge you to vote no to these two bills, which would declare our neighbors to be less deserving of fair treatment than the rest of us.
02-26-2025
Keila Eddy []
CON
Trans citizens help to show that diversity is beautiful. Luke 6:13 reminds us to "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Discrimination on gender and sex is divisive and not showing that we as Iowans show love and compassion. Just a reminder that Christ commands that "you shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:39) So I ask you this: does this bill show that we are loving our neighbor or following the golden rule?
02-26-2025
Hunter Smith []
CON
Gender identity should always be protected under the law. This bill is a hateful bill and it does not represent the Iowa I know. Shame on every republican for wanting this bill. Shame!
02-26-2025
Jason Powers [none]
CON
Removing gender identity as a protected civil right is dangerous and irresponsible. A person's gender declaration is of their own choosing and shall not be dictated by authority figures, government, religion, or outdated tradition. Stripping away personal autonomy and freedom of choice should not be part of our state's legal code. Those Iowans who already suffer from gender dysphoria, a proven medical condition, will suffer even more if discrimination against them is permitted without consequences. Mental illness and suicide risk will escalate. This is true and should be taken seriously. Job losses, income decline, housing insecurity do you wish this on any of your fellow Iowans? Imagine being shunned for employment, housing, funding opportunities, education, and other basic human rights because you want to be your genuine self. Removing the civil right of protected gender status may risk eliminating talented, creative, innovative people from the ranks of our best institutions. This would weaken and splinter our great state. Keep Iowa safer, stronger, smarter, and whole! Do not be afraid of your fellow citizens! Instead work together, live together, and lean on each other when in need. That is true governing and leadership.
02-26-2025
Sarah Collins [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Jon Uzel []
CON
There was a day, not so long ago in this state, when the order of the day was to just treat everyone fairly, and to stay out of others personal business. Its a sad state of affairs that it seems to be more about growing government intrusion and control over all our lives these days.
02-26-2025
Michelle Blanchard []
CON
This is the most antichristian thing I can imagine e happening. Please don't let this pass.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Youth Services]
CON
02-26-2025
Laura E Carlson [Citizen]
PRO
I support HF 583. I have experienced violation of seeing a man undressing in a public swimming pool women's dressing room. He was naked and changing into a pair of swim trunks. He told the staff he identified as a woman. He was not in a changing room, he was in the main area using a bench to change. We moms were shocked as we gathered our children and left. We did not feel safe. This was public exposure and indecency. This bill will prevent issues from arising. If a man is living as a woman and looks, dresses and uses the private dressing rooms that is a far different situation. Exhibitionists are trying to shock and desensitize people by these aggressive behaviors using their civil rights as reasoning. The pool staff were intimidated and worried about a lawsuit so allowed him to stay, and we all left. That is not a fair behavior to make into a societal norm; my civil rights were violated but that was ok with the other "side" to this issue. No one is trying to discriminate against anyone. Live your life as you choose, do not infringe upon my rights. Vote yes on this bill please and increase protection of women and children.
02-26-2025
Katie Splean []
CON
I stand against this law in favor of the diverse human beings who populated the state of Iowa. We have already granted protections for individuals regardless of gender identity in our constitution and repealing that does not further the wellbeing of our state. Instead, it promotes and justifies hate towards vulnerable populations. I believe that for our state to be great, it must focus on SUPPORTING those in need. This does not mean taking things away from others, but seeking new creative solutions to problems in an everevolving society. This law is regressive and outdated. It does not take into consideration the climate of the world in 2025. Politics and viewpoints of the 1950s are out of place today.Stop obsessing over what's in people's pants and live your life to the fullest, allowing them to live theirs with peace and opportunity.
02-26-2025
Gary Johansen []
CON
Enough of this reactionary criminalization of personal identity. Does the Republican Party support free expression? Does the Republican Party believe in bodily autonomy? Does the Republican Partty believe in Mental Health? Stop suppressing! Its weird! Why do you care, leave our neighbors alone already! ITS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!
02-26-2025
Lauren Ross [none ]
CON
Transgender people are our children, our friends, our neighbors, our colleagues and fellow Iowans. ALL PEOPLE deserve protection from discrimination, including transgender people. Please vote against this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
I oppose the bill that would remove civil rights protections for transgender people. If the bill should pass it does nothing to educate others but instead will cause more division, more misinformation and more hate. I have some questions for the representatives preparing to vote:1. What research have you done on the history of transgender?2.Have you spoken with trans people about their choices, their day to day experiences or anything?3. Have you spoken with Endocrinologists to learn more about gender identity?4.What impacts do you foresee happening if this bill should pass?I urge you to dig deeper and learn more to understand transgender.Thank you.
02-26-2025
Tom Taylor []
CON
I have a child who is gender nonconforming. There are plenty of elements of their livelihood at stake in this cultural battle between the right and the left. Some of those battles I've told them they'll have to fight as they grow. But it is 2025, and you're telling me that due to who they are.... civil rights protection is off the table? Legal protections to equal access to jobs, housing, and other essentials are off the table?If you want to have a scientific argument, fine. A cultural debate, fine. But at this point in our history as a country, for any minority group to not have civil rights protection? Shame on you for taking it too far.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
02-26-2025
Kristie L VanGorkom []
CON
I want to strongly register my dissent to this bill. PLEASE vote against this hateful bill!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill goes against the State motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful to our citizens.
02-26-2025
Halane Cummings []
CON
The very idea of removing rights already granted is abhorrent. Why would you want to go backwards?The individuals who identify as transgender make up less than 1% of the State's population but the Legislative body is going out of their way to be cruel and punitive. What is wrong with transgender individuals that you are trying to deny their very existence?I can't imagine why young people are moving out and no one wants to move to Iowa. Iowa kind my butt.
02-26-2025
Stephanie Collins []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Student]
CON
This is evil.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Turner]
CON
02-26-2025
Linda Ender [myself ]
CON
My name is Linda and I am a first generation born Chinese American. I grew up in Iowa, just 45 minutes north of the metro in a 99% white dominated small town. My parents left their home and their families in search for "the american dream". They wanted to raise their children in a world that was free and not oppressed. Where they were not scared to walk outside or to speak their minds with fear of repercussionjust like they grew up. My own grandfather was beaten for speaking out against a corrupt government. By passing bills a bill like this OPENS the floodgates for more heinous and demeaning bills to progress here in Iowa and in the country. "Equal does not mean the same for everyone" is one of the biggest contradictions you could make. Do not hide behind your "its for the children" schpeal. I am so sick of hearing "its for the children" "save the children". IF it was about the children, YOU would protect them from school shootings. YOU would make sure no kid went hungry. YOU would make sure that there would be NO foster care system at all because every single child would have a loving home. Who are you to tell me what I can and cannot do with MY OWN CHILD?! Tell me why my own children understand "loving everyone" more than the adults in this room who think passing a bill that strips the rights from their peers "OK" and "for their protection"? Who are we protecting here? ME? My children? OR You?! Every single one of you who are too afraid of change. Who are too afraid to see that there ARE people that DO NOT look like you. That there are people who DO NOT believe in what you believe in. But what you time and time again forget to realize or are too thick skulled to comprehend is that WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT. We all have our own stories to tell. How DARE you try to fit each and every single on of us into what YOU think is "appropriate". I am more scared for my child to go to school and be SHOT at than I am by taking them to story time with a drag queen. and Until YOU start paying for my childcare, healthcare, are waking up in the middle of the night to a hungry baby or a sick kid DO NOT EVER tell me what I can or cannot do for MY CHILD. You want to make this about the children yet you are OK with slapping a class d felony to anyone who breaks this dumb law and ripping parents away from their kids and putting them in jail. This isn't about the children. This is about YOU and your ridiculous outlandish views. Maybe if you put a fraction of the time you spend on tearing people down into our actual problems, Iowa could be a place where I'm proud to be from. My father passed away in 2008. If he were here today, he would be ashamed that he chose this place to raise his children. He would be ashamed of YOU.
02-26-2025
Tyler Pittman []
CON
This bill is a affront to American values. The equal protection clause of our constitution lmk states that every citizen must be treated equally under the law. Removing a class of citizens' civil rights protections is the absolute opposite of the constitution's intentions. I would hope that iowa legislators, of all people, would know to uphold the words written on our stage flag: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain."Aside from its legality, this bill is harmful and unnecessarily cruel to a group of people who already struggle in their day to day lives. I urge the Iowa legislature to leave transgender people and their rights alone. A trans Iowan simply having a job or a home does not harm anyone. There is no reason, then, that we should be repealing trans people's rights to life and liberty.Make the right decision and oppose this bill. History will look back on this moment, when our state legislature had the chance to stand up for its values and protect its people. Let trans people live in peace.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is shameful and shouldn't be happening.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Gender is not sex. Gender identity is not sex. Any argument to the contrary is inherently fallacious and Iowa should not being legislating based on falsehoods or codifying such blatant lies. Gender is socially constructed and has changed throughout human history; genders will continue to change. If you remove protections for gender and gender identity, then you are saying it is okay to deny civil rights to someone based on gender. But what era of gender norms should Iowa then adopt? Should Iowa then allow women to be denied their civil rights because they wear pants, or don't wear enough makeup, or have had a mastectomy? Should Iowa then allow men to be denied their civil rights because they aren't wearing a tie, or because they aren't wearing a powdered wig and heels, or if they've had a vasectomy? The answer to all these is clearly no; Iowa should continue to protect gender and gender identity.Gender is a complex matter, which is why this bill was drafted in a way as to deny facts, reality, and draw a false equivalency between gender and sex. Fact: gender is not sex. If this confuses you, that is your problem not all of Iowa's. Let's be very honest here: the specific intent of this bill is to attack Transgender individuals and anyone else that doesn't conform to exactly what a certain small percentage of ignorant, bigoted, or misinformed individuals personally feel Iowans should be allowed to present themselves as through their gender. The expressed intent is to target a minority, strip away their state's civil protections, and to strip away their rights. If you vote for this bill, you are saying you personally want yourself, your children, and your friends and family to be persecuted because of gender. That is what you'd be endorsing. The message you send to Iowa is we should all be attacking each other for gender differences. That isn't what Iowa stands for. The existing protections this bill wants to strike out for gender and gender identity are about every Iowan. This is an attack on every single Iowan's human rights and civil rights. Don't allow yourself to be manipulate be hate and bigotry. Don't assume this bill would only hurt those you don't like. This bill attacks YOU. Vote no on HF583.
02-26-2025
Lexi Stewart [None ]
CON
No one should have to fear being fired, denied housing, or losing educational opportunities because of their identity. Threatening the civil rights of one group puts everyones rights at risk. Even the mere proposal of HF583 contributes to increased depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.Government is meant to serve all people, not target and marginalize them. Instead of finding new ways to strip rights from vulnerable citizens, legislators should use their positions to uplift and protect their constituents. Gender harms no one. Trans people harm no one. A gender marker outside the binary harms no one.This bill would strip civil rights from Iowans, driving people out of the workforce and exacerbating mental health crises, along with the associated costs. Protect all Iowansvote no on HF583. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Ana Kinney [None]
CON
Ana KinneyCONEvery single person in Iowa, and the United States, deserves to be treated with respect regardless of gender identity, religion, or race. As a lifetime Iowan, I strongly oppose this bill and all that it stands for. Iowa is for everyone and we should have laws that protect every individual here from hate. Trans people will always exist and stripping them from their civil rights will only encourage hatred. I am asking the representatives in Iowa to follow the way of Jesus and love ALL people, especially the trans and LGBTQ community
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Monica Fischer []
CON
I am saddened that this state I love so much would move backwardsactually REMOVING rights already granted. And I am disgusted by those advancing this legislation for spending taxpayerpaid time to obsess over genitaliashame on them. History will remember this moment.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anna Hummel [The Slow Down Coffee Co. ]
CON
We are incredibly against this bill and the attempt to strip trans Iowans of their rights. It is unjust and hateful and we will not stand for this. Vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Olivia Hockey []
CON
If you replace transgender people with any other marginalized group (Jewish, African American, etc.), this bill would look like it was pulled from a history book. Keep this bigotry in the past. THOUSANDS of Iowans have rallied together to show their opposition for this bill. This does not represent Iowa and shows that you hate the citizens you claim to represent. Remember our state's motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain."Vote NO!
02-26-2025
Aimee Langager []
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to House File 583, which concerns the identification of individuals based solely on biological sex. After reviewing this proposed legislation, I have significant concerns about its impact on Iowans and believe it warrants reconsideration.This legislation fails to acknowledge the lived experiences of transgender and nonbinary Iowans. By requiring identification based solely on biological sex assigned at birth, the bill disregards individuals' gender identity and may cause significant psychological harm.Major medical associations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recognize genderaffirming care and respect for gender identity as best practices. This bill contradicts established medical and psychological guidance.The bill would create confusion and administrative burdens for schools, healthcare facilities, and government agencies that have already developed inclusive policies aligned with federal guidance.Iowa businesses may face difficulty attracting and retaining talent if the state is perceived as unwelcoming to diverse populations.This legislation would impact transgender and nonbinary Iowans who already face daily challenges in accessing facilities, services, and accommodations that align with their gender identity. These proposed additional barriers can contribute to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns in an already vulnerable population.I suggest that the legislature consider: consulting with certified medical professionals, mental health experts, and affected communities rather than blindly following an uneducated oligarch's beliefs; examining existing policies that have successfully balanced inclusion with privacy and safety concerns; and focusing on educational initiatives that promote understanding and respect for all Iowans.While I understand concerns about clarity in identification policies, House File 583 represents an approach that could cause significant harm to vulnerable Iowans. If you believe in true Freedom to Flourish, I urge you to vote against this bill and instead pursue more inclusive approaches that respect the dignity of all citizens.Thank you for your consideration of these concerns.Respectfully,Aimee Langager
02-26-2025
Mike Jones [City of Windsor Heights]
CON
My name is Mike Jones and I am writing you in my individual capacity as the Mayor of Windsor Heights. This is now the second year I have had to write in opposition to a House File, this time House File 583, related to gender identity under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. I will repeat what I stated last year. The State of Iowa has a long and storied history of standing up for the underprivileged and underserved in our communities. To pass this Act would break with our States proud tradition of respecting the rights of individuals.In 1839, the Iowa Territorial Court allowed a slave named Ralph to retain his freedom. No man in this territory can be reduced to slavery the Court wrote. In 1851, the Iowa territorial law banning interracial marriage was eliminated, over 100 years before the United States Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia. When Iowas first public university opened, the University of Iowa, it admitted men and women on an equal basis. In Clark v. Board of School Directors, the Iowa Supreme Court held that separate was not equal in the realm of public schooling, resulting in integration 96 years before Brown v. Board of Education. A year later, in 1896, the same Iowa Supreme Court admitted Arabella A. Mansfield to the bar, making her the first female lawyer in the United States.These monumental decisions all took place well over a century ago, a testament to our prescience as fair and just citizens. The movement did not stop there, of course, as Civil Rights continued to evolve over the course of the 20th Century and in Iowa, we passed our own Civil Rights Act in 1965.This unfortunate legislation aims to reverse course not only on Iowas history of tolerance but will also all but repeal bipartisan legislation that was passed in 2007. Both Republicans and Democrats voted in support of adding gender identity to the Civil Rights Act. Recognizing that the political winds have shifted, there is something to be said for recognizing the efforts of your predecessors that worked together, despite their political differences, for the betterment of our State.We were elected to represent the interests of everyone in our communities. That includes transgender individuals or persons who do not fit into traditional gender roles. I speak for them because they are a marginalized group and as an Iowan, I have a duty to speak against injustice.Further, I ask you to consider the economics of these actions. There are currently 50,000 job openings in Iowa. We suffer from some of the worst brain drain in the nation and have a negative net domestic migration. Last year the President of the Iowa Business Council said Our workforce and our overall population is what's going to really hold us back from potential opportunities in the future We have too many jobs, not enough people to work them and yet there are continued efforts to make this a hostile place to live and work.This bill is inhumane, is bad for business and I ask that you vote against it.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [no affiliation]
CON
Being fasttracked through legislation and removing rights of LGBTQ people is unnecessary. This is not what Iowans want.
02-26-2025
Madison Fiedler-Carlson [Fiedler Law Firm, PLC]
CON
I am a small business owner and a civil rights attorney in Des Moines who practices exclusively in employment law. The main statutes I analyze every day are the Iowa Civil Rights Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (the federal version of the ICRA). I was born and raised in Des Moines and I still live here with my husband, Jacob.As someone who cares deeply about Iowans' civil rights, I wanted to address a few points that I think you should know about this bill and how I am confident it will hurt Iowansparticularly biological women.The ICRA's protected classes do not give extra rights to some Iowans and not others.Each protected class protects ALL people from being treated differentlynot just minority classes. They require that employment, housing, and credit decisions be made on a neutral basisnot favoring one race, sex, gender identity, etc. over another.This means that "race" does not just protect people of color it also protects white people from being treated differently because they're white.In the same vein, "sex" protects both men and women; my firm has brought several cases on behalf of men who were treated less favorably because of their sex."Gender identity" as a protected class also protects biological men and women from being treated differently than trans people, and vice versa. If we remove gender identity as a protected class, it will allow a landlord to refuse to rent to someone because they are not trans. An employer could refuse to hire someone because they are a biological man or woman, or pay a trans employee more than a cis employee just on that basis.We don't need to define how someone proves they're in a protected class.Under the ICRA, the person complaining about discrimination has to prove that they are in a protected class and that the employer also understood that.The language added to 4.1 will allow segregation of women from maledominated businesses and areas.Under the changed language in 4.1, the entire Iowa Code would be changed to allow the exclusion of women, legalizing the segregation of women from maledominated spaces.In many sex discrimination cases, we see women being illegally excluded from maledominated spaces. If women are not being included in important business discussions, employee bonding, or decisionmaking in the business, that allows for women to be excluded from opportunities.In Brown v. Board of Education (1953), the United States Supreme Court shot down this exact language as unconstitutional: Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.If this language isn't found to be unconstitutional, it still will lead to more lawsuits over what is "equal enough" to constitute discrimination or not.Taking away gender identity as a protected class does not take us back in time to before 2007; Iowans will affirmatively lose that protection.Many states do not have specific protections for gender identity. But courts interpret silence from a legislature differently than action by a legislature.Iowa courts will interpret taking a protected class away as affirmative exclusion of that class and will not assume that the legislature meant to protect that class in a different way, like under "sex" as a protected class.In Vroegh v. State (2021), the Iowa Supreme Court explained that in a case from 1983, they rejected the argument that "sex" covered "gender identity." They noted that the legislative purpose of "sex" as a class was to place women on equal footing with men in the workplace. In 1983, the legislature had not included gender identity as a class and "the exclusion meant something." In interpreting statutes, "We effectuate the statutes purposes by giving a fair interpretation to the language the legislature chose; nothing more, nothing less."The Court had already held that sex discrimination was not the same as gender identity discrimination and confirmed that interpretation.There is far more danger to Iowans in taking away a right than in adding it in.Federal courts do think that gender identity discrimination is sex discrimination. If the ICRA is amended now, federal law and state law will contradict each other.Title VII (the federal ICRA) does not list "gender identity" or "sexual orientation" as protected classes. Instead, the United States Supreme Court has found that "sex" encompasses both.Back in 1989 in Price Waterhouse v. Hopkins, the United States Supreme Court found that stereotyping men and women based on what we expect men or women to act or look like is sex discrimination.Price Waterhouse involved a biological woman who was passed over for promotion because she was seen as aggressive, difficult, "macho," unladylike, and did not wear enough makeup or do her hair essentially, look or act enough like a stereotypical woman.The Court said this was allowing impermissible views on the proper behavior of women. In Bostock v. Clayton County (2020), the United States Supreme Court affirmed this and specifically noted that gender identity and sexual orientation were protected under the same analysis that trans people face discrimination on the same basis cis people do: not conforming to expectations about how biological men or women should look or act.Our assumptions about men and women should not come into play at allcivil rights protections are asking for neutral decisionmaking.Just because federal law will continue to cover gender identity does not mean that this is good for Iowans.There are three federal courthouses in Iowa.If anyone in the Southern half of the state brings a federal claim, they have to go to trial in Des Moines, Davenport (Eastern Division), or Council Bluffs (Western Division). Their jury comes from the entire Southern half of the state.Iowans in the Northern half of the state have to go to trial in Cedar Rapids or Sioux City. Their jury comes from the entire Northern half of the state.In comparison, there are State courthouses in each of the 99 countiesin Iowans' actual communities, with juries made up from people in their actual county.It is better for Iowans to have their cases heard by people in their immediate community.There are also different remedies available under state and federal law. For example, federal employment statutes like Title VII allow for punitive damages, while that is not available under the ICRA.Contradictory laws are bad for business.Contradictions are confusingfor Iowans, judges, attorneys, citizens, etc. If certain practices are allowed under Iowa law but not under federal law, who are employers supposed to follow?Employers will need to spend more money to understand what will be required under these conflicting laws instead of following one easy set of guidelinesThey will need to update handbooks, policies, deal with employee questions, and address situations using new guidanceguidance that no one knows how to properly implement when state and federal law are at odds. Businesses hate uncertainty, and these actions will be expensive and unpopular.If it will be riskier to do business in Iowa, businesses will move out or not come here in the first place.Uncertainty also means there will be more lawsuits.Employers may be sued for following federal law instead of Iowa law, or following Iowa law instead of federal law.Will sex stereotyping still protect discrimination?Iowa employers don't want more lawsuits over issues we thought were settled.The disability exception will not be enough to protect gender identity as a class.Most trans people do not have a diagnosis of gender dysphoria.This assumes that people are able to go to and afford doctors' visits (which is not guaranteed, especially if they can be legally fired due to gender identity).It also assumes that their doctor can and will diagnose them with this disorder.Not all diagnoses are disabilities under the law. Under employment law, a plaintiff has to prove that their disability affects major life activities or bodily systems.This issue is very important to meas are the civil rights of all Iowans. As a small business owner, woman, a citizen, and an attorney who is intimately familiar with the Iowa Civil Rights Act, I encourage you all to vote against HF 583.
02-26-2025
Adam Smith [Self]
CON
This bill creates avenues for discrimination and creates opportunity to remove access to opportunities based on personal characteristics instead of merit. Our laws should be out into place to protect personal freedom and not restrict it. This bill would encourage policing of people's identities and create a legalized system of calling into question a person's gender because they don't appear a certain way. Women have been subjected to this type of judgement based on appearance for far too long and this bill will only make it worse as people could now legally, but immorally, call into question their femininity. Please open HF 583 and uphold Iowa as a place that values freedom, fairness and equal opportunity for all its citizens.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
All Iowans deserve respect and decency. There is no room for more hatred in Iowa. This divisive legislation is morally reprehensible and has no place in our democratic society.
02-26-2025
Chris Paxson [Iowa Resident ]
CON
ARTICLE I. Bill of Rights under Political power. Section 2. All political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for the protection, security, and benefit of the people,As a lifelong Iowa resident and mother, this issue impacts me directly by breaking my heart.This should not be a political issue; it is a human rights issue. As our political leaders, why are you not protecting all Iowans?I am mortified and deeply embarrassed that you (our political leaders) think you have the right to remove any Iowans civil liberties from our constitution. As Iowans, we need to move our state forward, not backward.As a human race, we should be looking for ways to enhance our constitution to include protections for everyone. We should be empathetic not hateful towards others.No one person, on this planet, has the power to belittle another person and make them feel less than. As a mom, we taught our children to be kind towards others and in doing so they could make the world a better place.This bill is doing the exact opposite. It is tearing us apart and hurting our fellow Iowans and their families.As our political leaders, you took an oath to protect usall of us.I hope that you have the luxury to life your life authentically and that you will allow all Iowans to live their lives authentically too.I am pleading to you, from the bottom of my heat, please oppose HF583/SF418. Thank you,Chris Paxson
02-26-2025
Linda Willeke []
CON
Trans persons are Americans. They are Iowans. They are human beings created in God's image. They deserve the same rights as any other person in the state of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I know the bill will probably still pass but I have to do my part to try and preserve some sense of civil rights in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is incredibly cruel, unnecessary, & a waste of both time & money being used to push it through. Not only will it effect LGBTAQ+ individuals, but it will effect intersex individuals & those with hormone or medical issues that may steer them away from typical "male/female" bodies. This will effect so many people unnecessarily, ones who are just trying to live their lives peacefully in ways that are not effecting or hurting anyone else. LGBTAQ+ individuals have every right to not be discriminated against, just as cisgender individuals are. Every living, breathing human has the right to seek their own happiness when it does not come at the expense of others. Do not let this bill pass, do not continue to make a large population of people feel like their existence is a mstake.
02-26-2025
Alyssa [Independent]
CON
It is disturbing to see Iowa's leaders fast track such a hateful bill when there are real issues that impact our daily lives. Supporters of this bill are making a mountain out of a molehill and cherrypicking anecdotes to prop up their appalling rhetoric without acknowledging the big picture and statistical evidence. None of their arguments justify removing basic human rights protections. Transgender people deserve the right to safe housing, incomemaking opportunities, healthcare, and so forth, just like every other Iowan. It disturbs me that a group's basic civil rights protections could be erased just because they became a political hot topic that many politicians use for their own political gain. I am not transgender myself, but I will defend their freedom to live their one single life on Earth the way that makes them feel the happiest. I would no longer feel proud to call myself an Iowan if this state were to go as far as to remove a civil rights protection that has existed for nearly 20 years without issue. Our leaders might as well rewrite the Iowa motto while they're at it, "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain", if they're not going to maintain the rights of our neighbors.
02-26-2025
Lauren Pass [Former Iowan]
CON
I urge you to reject this bill.I grew up in Iowa and moved to Chicago in 2019, but my friends and family live in Iowa and so I visit several times each year. Passing this bill would severely and negatively impact my loved ones, many of whom are queer and trans. If this bill passes, it would mean Iowa would be the FIRST STATE TO REMOVE A PROTECTED CLASS FROM ITS CIVIL RIGHTS LAW. I am deeply concerned by the precedent this would set. I strongly reject the idea that the state may decide that some citizens deserve more rights than others. We should all be equal under the law. We must retain these fundamental rights. This bill is cruel. It is unnecessary. It is a waste of tax payer dollars. It is divisive. It is harmful to many. It benefits none. At its core, it is a monstrous display of discrimination against a very small and vulnerable population. Trans people are our friends and family. They are our hard working coworkers, church members, and neighbors. They are an asset to their communities. This proposed legislation is based on fear and lies, and not the truth that all people are equal and worthy of dignity. Spend your time and tax payers dollars on something that will actually make the state better, instead of giving everyone one more reason to leave.
02-26-2025
Kathy Winter []
CON
This bill is horrific and serves no purpose but to hurt people. Iowa should be better than this. Vote No!!!!!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Taylor Nelson []
CON
This bill is horrific. It would strip people of their rights. Trans and nonbinary people belong in Iowa. Do the right thing and stop this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is a terrible idea and will not only hurt residents but cause harm to our economy when people start flee the state. Such a violation to human rights is s disgrace to Iowa as a state
02-26-2025
Fintan Slattery-Grafe []
CON
This bill is a blatant bad faith attempt to legalize trans and gender nonconforming people out of public life. Any legitimate questions about women's only spaces or sports should be heard in an honest, good faith discussion with the transgender community. Bills like this are clearly nothing more than an attempt to chase national trends and win favor with the far right, and should be dismissed as the unnecessary distraction from real issues that it is.
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Amy Beck []
CON
Contrary to those in favor of this bill, the Iowa Civil Rights Act ("ICRA") has never been about giving special rights to one group over anotherit ensures that all Iowans are treated fairly, and we can trust our legal system, including Iowa juries, to determine when someone has crossed that line.Removing gender identity from the ICRA would set Iowa back, making it the first in the nation to remove a protected class. Historically, our state has been a trailblazer for civil rights. This would be a devastating deviation from that legacy.This bill also creates serious legal uncertainty that will affect businesses, attorneys, and our already overburdened courts. The ICRA has provided clear, settled protections, allowing businesses to operate under a known legal framework. Removing gender identity from the Act doesnt just take away protections for transgender individualsit creates ambiguity in sex discrimination law more broadly. To be clear, this bill harms women, it doesn't help them.A significant portion of sex discrimination cases rely on sex stereotyping claims, where employees are treated unfairly for not conforming to expectations of how a man or woman should act. This framework has long protected both cisgender and transgender employees. For example, I have represented women who were penalized at work for not dressing or behaving in a traditionally feminine waysuch as choosing to wear pants instead of skirts or being assertive and direct in their communication. Employers sometimes perceive these women as being too aggressive or not warm enough, and they face consequences that their male colleagues would not. Thats classic sex discrimination under Price Waterhouse v. Hopkins. Iowa courts, much like federal courts before Bostock, have recognized that discrimination based on gender identity is often just sex stereotypingsomething that has been illegal for decades. If gender identity is removed as a protected class, courts will now have to determine whether sex stereotyping still applies, especially when the legislative intent seems to suggest otherwise. Thats not just bad policyits bad law. It leaves courts and attorneys without clear guidance, increases litigation risks for businesses, and raises fundamental questions about which claims remain viable.This also means that Iowa judges will now be forced to determine whether existing sex discrimination law still protects transgender individuals or whether the legislatures action overrides prior case law. That litigation is inevitable and will only add strain to our court system, which is already underfunded and struggling to retain judges and staff. At a time when our judiciary is facing mounting challenges, the last thing we need is a wave of unnecessary and costly litigation over a problem that didnt exist before this bill was introduced.Its also important to note that gender identity protections dont just apply to transgender individuals. The ICRA also protects cisgendered individuals from being discriminated against because they are not trans. Protected classes do not create special rights for somethey ensure that no one is treated worse because of who they are. The same way sex as a protected class ensures men and women alike are treated fairly, gender identity protections ensure that no one is treated worse for how they present or express themselves.Even beyond gender identity, this bill attempts to redefine equal in a way that invites more legal disputes. The proposed changes to Iowa Code section 4.1stating that equal does not mean same or identical and that separate accommodations are not inherently unequalopen the door to challenges that extend beyond gender identity protections. This language could weaken protections for women, people with disabilities, and other protected groups, creating more confusion about what equal treatment actually means under Iowa law. That uncertainty guarantees future litigation, putting businesses in the difficult position of trying to comply with a law that lacks clear and consistent application.
02-26-2025
Morgan Kroeze [None]
CON
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Katie Kuehn [None]
CON
I am vehemently opposed to this bill. As a straight white female, it does not affect me personally but it affects those in my community who I love. There is absolutely no reason to pass this bill unless your goal (which sadly seems like it is your goal) is to allow for discrimination of those who already face judgment for simple existing in the way they are meant to be. There are so many important issues facing Iowa cancer rates, maternal and infant mortality, lack of funding for education. Why is this the focus unless you are doing this to be cruel? I stand by trans and nonbinary individuals in this state. They deserve to be protected from discrimination, not to have it legalized. This is a disaster.
02-26-2025
Laurel Worden [St Pauls United Methodist Church, member]
CON
Does our state really want to be known as "first in the nation" to return to draconian thought and practices of discriminating against a previously protected class of individuals? Or do we, and our better angels, stand for liberty and freedom for each of us to be who we are.I believe God creates each of us for a unique purpose on this earth and asks us to be true to who we are and to that purpose and use the gifts given us to better humanity. We no more choose our true selves than we do our eye or skin color. Iowan'sdo we stand with and for the liberty of the individual or will we with the bill, start chipping away at yet more freedoms in our society? Does this bill mask itself in false, unsubstantiated protections for women, and mark itself as the first step in dismantling all LGBTQ+ rights? This bill seems quite deliberate to me. If passed, it will not be the last attempt to erase certain "kinds" of human beings.Vote NO to hatred and unnecessary changes to our Iowa Civil Rights Act. Stand up for life, liberty, justice and the freedom of the individual. We CAN live together in peace and harmony.
Attachment
02-26-2025
Kelsey Josephson []
CON
Vote no on HF 583. We cannot go back to the days of "separate but equal." The legacy of Iowa should not be becoming known as the first state to reverse civil rights, stripping away the dignity and freedom of its citizens.I am writing to urge all representatives to vote no on this cruel bill. If passed, this will be a huge step backward for civil rights in Iowa. This will impact the quality of life in all aspects for trans and nonbinary citizens, a vulnerable group that is at risk for discrimination. They will face the possibility of being denied housing, employment, education, banking, medical care, and everything else one needs in order to thrive and survive. Transgender people are my friends, neighbors, and family. I want them to be safe living in Iowa.I'm deeply concerned if this legislation specifically designed to strip rights away from trans, nonbinary, and intersex citizens passes, what marginalized group will be the next to lose their basic protections? Women? People of different ethnicities? People who are disabled? This is a horrible slippery slope that makes me fear for Iowa's future.Please keep Iowa safe for everyone. Vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Amanda Lynde []
CON
This bill is hateful and intended to hurt a vulnerable population while doing nothing to better any one elses life. Shameful. Absolute NO
02-26-2025
Anonymous [National Association of Social Workers]
CON
Removing civil rights from a group is beyond reprehensible. All persons (we the people) mean all and deserve protection under the law. This bill is way too broad and destructive. Please vote NO on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
'Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We will Maintain'. HF583 is contrary to the values we hold most sacred as Iowans, I ask of you, do not make Iowa the first state in the nation to repeal civil rights protections for its citizens. Your vote "NO" will reserve Iowa's long tradition as a beacon for Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity.Let's make "IOWA NICE AGAIN."
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Janice Hawkins [First Unitarian Church of Des Moines]
CON
I wish to speak against this motion. This is an attempt to legally erase the existance of persons who are not female or male, to slash the protections that have been offered since 2007 which include Section 504 & the Americans with Disabilities Act & to rewrite gender theory by presenting only one perspective, that of the Bible therefore muddying the waters of the divisions between the state & religion. I ask that you set your religious & political convictions aside. We're speaking of real people here I believe that every family, every family, can identify someone who may be trans every family. If you vote to pass this bill, you are making a whole segment of our society, someone in your family, vulnerable to attack. What will you do when that happens? What will you do? You must be ready to accept the consequences because you will be the one held responsible the consequences. I urge you to vote no on this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Teachersâ?? Association ]
CON
02-26-2025
Brandie Seay []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [private citizen]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowan]
CON
02-26-2025
Andrea Cook []
CON
When you have sat with, spoken with, and spent time in conversation with someone who will be directly impacted by this legislation, ONLY THEN are you doing your job. I am absolutely heartbroken by the way our state refuses to let people flourish when they are simply being who they are. I am unequivocally against this legislation, and I pray for you every day when you lead with such divisiveness.
02-26-2025
Katherine Oâ??Reilly [Resident ]
CON
By enshrining a binary view of sex, HF 583 restricts legal recognition of transgender identities and could lead to increased discrimination against transgender individuals. It also potentially weakens local nondiscrimination protections if they conflict with the state's new definitions.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill goes against everything we should believe in as Iowans. It is incredibly discriminatory and will result in deaths. People will die because they will be fired from jobs, kicked from homes, etc. It is also a sad reality that many will take their own lives. Protect trans people! Dont join in the nationwide genocide of trans people!
02-26-2025
Steve Paulsrud [Self]
PRO
XX XY indicating biological sex genes. These markers alone should not exclusively determine civil rights. Most is us live in civilized societies and/or countries. It is unfortunate that if you are a legal citizen of Iowa your civil rights may not be granted because of gender identity. What purpose does this serve? Informed or uninformed and educated or uneducated who have been given informed consent(including proxy or guardian) deserve the civil rights afforded to all by the US and Iowa Constitutions. Exclusion of rights due to fear is cowardice. There is no place for this in law. There are laws for those who trample our rights when we have not trampled the rights of others.When my gender identity is different than yours, thats all that is. My civil rights are no different than yours. We all have not harmed anyone; unless we all have harmed each other?!?!?
02-26-2025
Drew Kelso [The Slow Down]
CON
The Slow Down at its core is meant to be a welcoming space operating under the premise of what could happen if we took the time to slow down and get know each other. Through this, we have gotten to know our community more deeply, and that includes LGBTQ+ Iowans, who have always reflected love and compassion. It is unjust to rollback their civil rights as a protected class.This is discrimination through and through.Please vote against HSB242. We stand with them!
02-26-2025
Bobby Wullner []
CON
Our teachers are not in favor of this bill. Our medical experts are not in favor. Our scientists are not in favor. Please, whether you are aware or not, this will bring real harm to real Iowans.
02-26-2025
Chantal Rozmus [None]
CON
My name is Chantal Rozmus. I am a dual boarded adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist, and as part of my job I work with people who have substance use disorders. Im writing to you today to plead that you oppose the passage of SF 418.In my job as a psychiatrist, I work with folks across all demographics. We know this to be true: Mental illness doesnt discriminate. Often times, my patients are people who have all odds set against them, and get impacted by legislation such as SF 418. One example that is hard not to compare this to, is the War on Drugs. The War on Drugs was not a war against drugs: it was used to target people who opposed the government. I am intimately familiar with and to this day witness the harm it has caused it did not help my patients. It made them more sick. It put them in prison. We didnt see a decrease in drug use or overdose they increased. To quote John Erlichman, who worked with the Nixon administration:You want to know what this war on drugs was really all about? The Nixon campaign in 1968, and the Nixon White House after that, had two enemies: the antiwar left and black people. You understand what Im saying?We knew we couldnt make it illegal to be either against the war or black, but by getting the public to associate the hippies with marijuana and blacks with heroin, and then criminalizing both heavily, we could disrupt those communities. We could arrest their leaders, raid their homes, break up their meetings, and vilify them night after night on the evening news.Did we know we were lying about the drugs? Of course we did.Like the War in Drugs wasnt about the drugs, this legislation isnt about protecting our children or our women. It isn't about trans athletes who just want to play a high school sport. It isn't about gender theory being taught in schools. It isn't about "inappropriate books". It is AN ATTACK on LGBTQ+ Iowans. It is an attempt to eradicate queer and trans people who have always and will always exist. Make no mistake this legislation will be harmful we will see an increase in suicides among queer people, both old and young. People will be afraid to ask for help out of fear that they may be ostracized. The decrease in trans and queer people you will see will be because they are dead, not because they dont exist due to lack of exposure to gender theory or using someones correct pronouns. We know, statistically, that simply using someones correct pronouns can literally save their life.If you are reading this and think to yourself, "nobody I know is queer or trans", I want you to know that you are lying to yourself: you know somebody they are just too afraid to tell you. You have the opportunity to oppose this bill, which like the War on Drugs, is simply put: a war against someone who is different than you. This is not about protecting women and children. We cannot say we are protecting children with this bill, and at the same time take away the free lunch program. This is propaganda against queer people.
02-26-2025
Kelsey Meyer [N/A]
CON
All Iowa residentsincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. Please vote against HSB242.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Biotech]
CON
I am registering my opposition to HF583. Trans individuals deserve to have and keep the rights that have already been granted. Why are so many bills focused on stripping away the rights of individuals. There are more important things that needed to be addressed in our state, like fixing/replacing our aging bridges or trying to find a way to decrease the ever increasing cancer rates in this state. These are issues that matter not how someone identifies. Please focus on things that actually matter. We elected representatives for a reason, which is to make the state better, not worse.
02-26-2025
David Anderson [Self]
CON
I have a Ph.D. in Physics. I am in awe of my fellow scientists who work on Developmental Biology and Biochemistry.The basics of the scientific existence of trans people is not complicated. There is what we think the script for a pregnancy is, and then there is what actually happens. Anyone with children should be familiar with the fact that pregnancies don't always go according to script.The time in pregnancy when genitals are defined and the time when the brain is wired for a social role are different. So every once in a while, very roughly about one in 10000 pregnancies, these wind up mismatched, according to the script. The details are awesome, but the basics are simple. Anyone claiming that science says transgender people don't exist is ignorant of science, probably willfully so.But you don't need to take my word for it; there is much more detail here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVQplt7ChosComplete with references if you want to look into this even further.The same God that created the duckbilled platypus can and will create transgender people.Let me address a few common misconceptions.Gender identity does not change with time. It is part of how the brain is wired. That said, knowledge of transgender people has been so scarce until recently that many transgender people didn't know this was their situation. Obviously, once they do understand their situation, they may change their pronouns and the other ways they present to the world.This is why transgender people want their existence to be common knowledge; they don't want that roughly one in 10000 children who is transgender to suffer until they are in their 30s or even later in life, as many transgender people have had to. Any other child who hears about transgender people will realize they are not and go about their business.The performance of transgender athletes in sports shows no advantage relative to the enormous variation in cisgender women (funny how we aren't worried about transgender men in men's sports; https://www.npr.org/2023/04/09/1168858094/argumentsthattransathleteshaveanunfairadvantagelacksevidencetosupport), and the foolishness is shown by the bans extending to things like chess. Lia Thomas has had a far less successful career than many of her cisgender compatriots, and brain damage from a spiked volleyball (a very common injury in the sport) is irrelevent to the identity of who did the spiking.Finally, the idea that this is about protecting women's rights is laughable given that the same people pushing this bill are also the ones who banned a medical procedure necessary for women's health. Furthermore, they are trying to write the Supreme Court's finding that "separate is inherently unequal" in Brown v. Board out of existence. No good can come of this for anyone.Let me close with Matthew 25:40,45:Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.There are many "Christians" who are worried that there isn't enough Christ in Christmas. They should be far more concerned that there doesn't seem to be any Christ in "Christians" nowadays.Vote "No" on this bill.Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-26-2025
Lucy Suros [None]
CON
These bills are blatantly discriminatory, unethical, and shameful. For Iowa to be the first state to remove a protected class from its civil rights code is just embarrassing. These bills will remove protections for one of the most vulnerable groups of people in this state. They would makes it okay for people to discriminate against their transgender neighbors, employees, customers, coworkers simply because they are transgender. That is unacceptable and immoral. Transgender people are already subject to intense levels of violence and vitriol. You would unleash more by passing these bills. You cannot claim to care about your constituents which include transgender people and those who love them and pass these bills. History will NOT look favorably on you if you vote yes. Please do NOT.
02-26-2025
Martha Fifield []
CON
Please oppose HF583. Removing gender identity protections, which have been the law in Iowa since 2007, would expose vulnerable people to all kinds of discrimination and would set a dangerous precedent. Removing protections for one group of people means anyone's rights are negotiable. It opens the door to discrimination against people of color, women, those living with disabilities, veterans, the elderly, or anyone of different beliefs. The protections for all are weakened if you erase protections for gender identity from the Civil Rights Act. Iowa has a proud history of nondiscrimination. Please don't take our state backwards!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Michal MB [Na]
CON
This attempted legislation saddens me for many reasons. As a straight, white, woman the discourse using my potential discomfort to take away rights from another person is appalling. The idea that we should be afraid of bathrooms or sports because a man may enter that space indicates an ingrained misogyny that has been internalized by too many women. No one, including women is made safer by limiting the rights of others. By taking away rights of my sisters, you make the world less safe for all. I do not care what facilities someone uses. Im far more concerned with having clean cared for public spaces. I do not believe that any advantage is gained in sports because someone as potentially designated a male at birth. One, I know many women and girls who could easily beat their male counterparts. Two, this state has not chosen to fund or support womens sports in any meaningful way anyway. Science has proven repeatedly that there are more than two sexes. And anyone who has studied history knows that this flawed theory wasnt even prevalent until recently. Past medieval (Christian) theories indicated that sexes could change by a change in humours and female husbands were known in 16th century Europe. This is a flagrant fear of change which harms our neighbors and friends. It cannot pass.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My name is Matthew Zanger. I live in Dubuque and am a member of our Equity and Human Rights Commission.I am against this bill that would define gender into 2 simple categories of Male and Female and assign these labels at birth without any opportunity in the future to reconsider the assigned labels.There is much scientific, medical, social, sexual and genetic research that clearly supports that gender exists very clearly on a continuum and is not expressed as a simple binary. While chromosomes may be simply identified as XX or XY, there are numerous possibilities for an XX chromosome to express as male and an XY to express as female.I realize it is easier to simplify our understanding in a binary model, but the reality says otherwise. I also do not believe that limiting human rights for ANY reason is justified. EVER!For years, Republicans have supported individual rights and demanded that the government stay out of personal business. I dont understand why there is a change in this perspective now.This bill is absolutely unconstitutional imho because it singles out one group of individuals that can be discriminated against.I strongly encourage our Iowa State representatives to review the scientific evidence in this area and I insist that this legislative body wholeheartedly rejects this bill. Thank you .
02-26-2025
Dani E. []
CON
The Iowa Legislatures push to remove gender identity from the Civil Rights Act is a stunning act of government overreach and moral cowardice. If passed, Iowa would be the first state to explicitly strip away civil rights from an entire group of people.And what justification do lawmakers have for revoking these protections? The answer is simple: they have none. This is political posturing, not governance; it is designed to score cheap political points, not solve real problems.Furthermore, this bill is a legal and economic disaster waiting to happen. It flies in the face of federal law, particularly the U.S. Supreme Courts rulings in Bostock v. Clayton County (2020), which established that gender identity discrimination is a form of sex discrimination, and Romer v. Evans (1996), where the Court ruled that once rights are extended to a specific group, removing them violates the Equal Protection Clause. If passed, this law will inevitably be challenged in court, costing Iowa taxpayers millions in legal fees for a battle it is doomed to lose. Meanwhile, businesses will think twice about expanding in a state that embraces regression over progress. Just ask North Carolina: its infamous bathroom bill led to billions in lost revenue.This legislation is an attack on the basic principle that all people deserve equal protection under law. If lawmakers can strip protections from one group today, what stops them from doing the same to another tomorrow? Does Iowa really want to be the first state that strips its citizens of civil rights and invites national disgrace?This sets a dangerous precedent that erodes the integrity of our state's legal framework and the dignity of its citizens. It betrays conservative, American values and should alarm anyone who cares about the rule of law and personal liberties.Iowans care about jobs and freedom, and this bill threatens both. The nation is watching, and Iowas economy will pay the price if this bill becomes law.
02-26-2025
Kristin Schroeder [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Amee Schmidt []
CON
HF282 in its original form is egregiously discriminatory to begin with, particularly in regards to the requirements to define sex for newborns. Additionally, the revisions in HF583 compound the potential opportunities for discrimination against nonbinary individuals. I can see no reason behind these revisions, as they would make it more dangerous for Iowa citizens to merely exist. After all, isn't the goal of the government to serve all its people? I fail to see how reducing protected identities, as proposed in the revisions to this bill, will serve the people of this state. This bill will put Iowa citizens in real danger, and I plead with you, our representatives, to vote NO. Please do what is right; protect your constituents.
02-26-2025
Teresa Glover []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill, which seeks to redefine statutory language regarding sex and gender, restrict indications of gender identity on vital records, remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit school curricula related to gender theory. This legislation represents a harmful rollback of fundamental rights and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, erasing their legal recognition and undermining their dignity.By restricting how gender identity is acknowledged in law and education, this bill not only disregards the lived experiences of countless Iowans but also promotes exclusion and discrimination. Removing gender identity protections from civil rights law weakens legal safeguards against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, placing transgender individuals at heightened risk of harm. Additionally, censoring discussions of gender in schools limits students ability to learn about diverse identities, fostering ignorance rather than understanding.Every person deserves to be recognized and protected under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This bill fails to uphold the principles of equality and inclusion, and I urge lawmakers to reject it in favor of policies that affirm and respect the rights of all individuals.
02-26-2025
Jacki Brucher Moore []
CON
Creating legislation intended to harm others is barbaric. People who don't understand the complexities of human biology, physiology and DNA will not understand it any better because a law is created. Scientists using scientific methods of research discover and explain how human development works. No law will change the scientific fact that gender and see are not always binary and they are not always the same.
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Shannon Schott []
CON
As a licensed mental health provider and an ally, I am deeply concerned about the dangerous implications of legalizing discrimination through this legislation. There will be profound and lasting costs to our trans and gender diverse friends, family, and neighbors. We will lose community members who contribute in countless ways to the wellbeing of our state and deserve the same protections afforded to cisgender Iowans. I am disgusted by these efforts to target, disenfranchise and oppress Iowa citizens. Do the right thing, defend the rights of all Iowans, and oppose this legislation.
02-26-2025
Ellie Spilman [None]
CON
I completely oppose this bill. We should never be proposing legislature to TAKE rights away from an already vulnerable population. I stand with the LGBTQIA+ community and firmly against this type of legislation.
02-26-2025
James Fifield [--None--]
CON
This is my urgent plea to not pass H.F. 583. I'm a retired white straight male and lifelong Iowa resident, having grown up in a county seat town in Southwest Iowa. On a visit to see our son seven or eight years ago, he'd arranged for us to meet for a beer with a new friend, Jamie. "They'll meet us at the restaurant at 8:00." When we arrived, we met Jamie and were enjoying a beer and chatting about baseball, while I waited for the other person to show up. A couple hours later, following a delightful conversation, it was time to head back to our hotel. I commented to our son that I'd enjoyed meeting Jamie, but was disappointed that his other friend had been a no show. Our son smiled and explained that the "they" had referred to Jamie and that Jamie was a transgender friend. On a later visit, we got together with Jamie and Jamie's parents, who were in town. Another fun evening of great conversation and friendly banter.Since then, I've had the opportunity to know a handful of transgender and nonbinary persons. At first, due largely to my own unimaginative mindset and pronouns that didn't come naturally to me, I worried about saying the wrong thing. (I still screw up pronouns on occasion, but those have become occasions for laughs, rather than embarrassment.) What has become abundantly clear to me is that these folks are not pushing agendas. nor are they sexual predators. Instead, I've come to realize that these are human beings on a oftchallenging journey to sort out how to fit into this world in a manner that best allows them to simply live their lives and achieve aspirations common to us all getting a good education, finding a good job and affordable housing, living without fear, building a set of friends they can trust and rely on when times are tough, and finding a soulmate to be a companion for life. No more. No less.It hurts me deeply to see folks like Jamie be "othered" and characterized as scary monsters preying upon innocent children. You all know those cheap and tired tropes.Over the years, the perspective I've developed has taught me that life's not easy. It's also taught me that life is even tougher for folks not like me folks whose skin color is darker, folks who genuinely love someone of the same sex, and folks whose true self and physical body genuinely conflict. One other thing that the years have taught me is that fear leads to bad decision making.For the life of me, I don't understand why so many folks in positions of power want to make those lives even more difficult in order to score a few political points. It seems to me that Iowa and Iowans would be best served by an old maxim that seemingly has been forgotten life's hard enough, as is, without folks and the government sticking their noses in and making it tougher. Just let folks try to live their lives as best they can.Against that backdrop, the notion of removing civil rights protections against discrimination for transgender Iowans is one born of fear and dehumanization. A solution in search of a problem. A cruel step aimed at making some marginalized folks' lives much, much tougher. Please step up and lead with love, compassion and basic decency in this moment, rather than shuffle along with a fearful crowd that hasn't tried to know the hearts or understand the challenges of those it now asks you to punish.Please defeat H.F. 583 and keep Iowa a place where all Iowans can grow and prosper.
02-26-2025
Shirley Textor [retired minister]
CON
As my elected representative I expect the needs of our most vulnerable citizens to be protected by you. Instead your bill is an attack on the rights of transgender people. Do not pass this bill. It could easily lead us down the rabbit hole of further trampling on and removing the rights of other groups as well. Yours, Shirley Textor
02-26-2025
Barb Wheelock []
CON
Removing transgender from the Iowa Civil Rights Act will have a profound impact on transgender individuals. Businesses would be allowed to refuse them service, employers could choose not to hire them , landlords could deny them housing. Does this remind you of any other groups of people who were denied these rights not so very long ago? Please do not take Iowa backwards. Please use this resource to learn about the biology of transgender before you make this life altering decision, then VOTE NOhttps://thosenerdygirls.org/sexchromosomes/ They answer Biologic sex is much less straightforward than most of us have been taught. Humans come in a variety of combinations of body parts (anatomy), hormones, and X and Y chromosomes.
02-26-2025
Randolph Farnum [no affiliation]
CON
This bill hurts people and does not protect anybody. My fiends that are trans will be hurt and I will protect them. But I don;'t want to have to start protecting them again. I thought we were beyond this.
02-26-2025
Katherine McCartan []
CON
This bill is an unconstitutional, immoral piece of legislation that would set our state back fifty years and ruin the slow progress Iowa has been making to become a welcoming, blossoming metro. Trans people deserve the same rights as anyone else. Why any bill actively advocating to strip the rights of Iowans is beyond me. We do not need our state government to be a pawn for our current president, listen to the voices of the majority of your state: we do not support this bill and will not stand by and watch you take away lifesaving procedures, put our trans citizens at risk, and censor the the truth that LGBTQIA+ lives matter in this state. We will continue to fight for the rights of trans individuals in our state. I'm asking our state representatives to do the right thing and stop this bill. This is not a partisan issue, this is not a bill to tack on your next campaign run, this is life or death for countless, countless Iowans.
02-26-2025
Shane Murphy [Resident of Iowa ]
CON
Taking away rights from Americans is wrong. This bill targeting transgender citizens rights will legalize hate and bigotry. This is a door that cannot be closed when opened, who are you going to target next? I cannot believe my government is waisting so much time and money to intentionally harm individuals. Treat others how you would like to be treated. Love your neighbor. Help people. These are the pillars of Christianity you are voting against. Quit spending so much of our tax money on this type of anti American behavior. Think about how history will view your actions. Passing this bill would be a stain on our state. Do the right thing, do not pass this bill.
02-26-2025
Kristen Mead []
CON
I'm against HF 583. Trans people deserve protection and should not be discriminated against.
02-26-2025
Kate Tonn []
CON
This bill is unacceptable. I am ashamed to reside in a state where this hatred is not only tolerated but encouraged. The negative ramifications of this bill far outweigh any protections it has in place. Performing in drag is not shameful or harmful in any way. In fact many local theatres rely on genderbend casting to fill shows. Transgender people are not harming or confusing our kids in Iowa. I am grateful to have grown up in and around theatre, where I was exposed to people from many walks of life. Theatre has taught me to have empathy for others, to be hardworking and dedicated, how to express myself, how to make friends, and many other skills. Passing this bill will undoubtedly have unforeseen negative consequences on the residents of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Gabe Bodzin []
CON
As a human, Iowan, father, social worker and psychotherapist, I want to express my opposition to this bill, which is state sanctioned hate and opposed vital civil rights of transgendered Iowans. The consequences of this legislation will only cause harm to individuals in our community, to provide for themselves and their families, to compete on a level playing field and to have equal opportunities to contribute and live. Such a law seems to be contrary to freedoms that are essential for a healthy democracy. I believe this bill is destructive and takes away fundamental civil rights from hardworking, law abiding transgender people in our communities. Please do not support this legislation.
02-26-2025
Sally Weyer []
CON
Really? You want to remove gender identity protection from the Iowa Civil Rights Act? Why? Hasn't the Iowa legislature already done enough harm to the trans community? This is one more step in your campaign to make trans people and allies invisible. But you know what? It won't work. Read the room ie the comments here. Iowans do not want this legislation to pass. Vote no on this bill.
02-26-2025
Brynne Schweigel-Skeers [None]
CON
I do not advocate for taking away the civil rights of any Iowan, which this bill attempts to do. It does not seek to protect anyone and will create major public health issues. Please do not pass this change.
02-26-2025
Rachel McDermott [Citizen of Dubuque County, Iowa]
CON
Please vote No.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [citizen]
CON
Our state motto is Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain.It is appalling that state legislators are attacking our trans brothers and sisters through this legislation. There is so much work to be done cleaning up our water, dealing with high cancer rates, many other issies and instead of doing that, you're making it easier to punish people for being who they are under the guise of somehow protecting women? No, thanks! This will not help me one bit.
02-26-2025
Tom Babbey []
CON
What kind of country are we when we seek to remove the civil rights from a group of our citizens..? Please act with the Midwest values of kindness and the American values of freedom, and protect the rights of our fellow people. To do less is to bring shame on your duty as civil servants and insult to the dream of America.
02-26-2025
Louisa Hall [None]
CON
Narrowing civil rights protections for any marginalized group hurts us all and reverses years of work to expand protections we all deserve.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
"Our Liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" State of Iowa motto. The state of Iowa has historically been in the forefront of civil rights. A right granted should not be taken away. Please retain our current laws regarding gender identity rights. People are people with rights, feelings, and needs regardless of one's personal comfort zone, belief, opinion and/ or preference.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Maggie Tillman []
CON
This is harmful, hateful, discriminatory, and unconstitutional. I strongly oppose HF 583, because the liberties of trans Iowans are important.
02-26-2025
Sara Dowell [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Lorene Snyder []
CON
Removing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act and Iowa Code is immoral and wrong. Transgender people aren't some abstract concept, they are real people with names and faces. Stripping away gender identity protection will not make anyone's life better. It's interesting to me that protecting women is the main reason this bill has been submitted. How safe will women feel when a transgender man has to use a women's locker room? This bill would cause so much harm to people who are just trying to live their lives in peace. Please do what's right and vote against HF583 and SF418. The fact that these bills have even been introduced is chilling. What group will be next to lose their rights? Is this the kind of legislation you want to be remembered for? Thank you for your time.
02-26-2025
Stacy Kluesner []
CON
As the mother of 3 children, one who is transgender, I implore you to NOT pass this bill. ALL of my children and ALL Iowans deserve the same rights. This is an imagined problem from those who fear 'different' and are wanting to jockey for political power. This bill will cause immeasurable harm and suffering to an already marginalized group and their friends and loved ones. Please don't legislate discrimination. Iowans are better than this!!
02-26-2025
Teri Stolte []
CON
There is no benefit to this bill other than to promote hatred of a group of fellow Iowans. We may not choose their lifestyle but how they choose to live their lives is none of our concern.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Eric Melde []
CON
Trans rights are human rights.
02-26-2025
Lois DeWaard [Iowa Citizen ]
CON
Please vote no this bill.
02-26-2025
Kellie Bridges []
CON
Reject HF 583 (HSB 242.) This regressive ignorant act will do nothing to benefit anybody. It will only undeniably cause harm to hardworking citizens that are already underserved. Being trans is not a disorder and there is no justification for the ways this will harm thousands of Iowans, those that identify as trans, and every life they touch.These are citizens that have done nothing wrong and do not deserve to have their civil rights protections revoked. This is only a step backwards into a more hateful Iowa that I do not want to live in. I was born here. My trans friends and family were born here. They are already losing their hard earned government employment benefits on a federal level, the state of Iowa cannot continue to turn it's back on its people. Our people.People who contribute to our communities every day. Reject HF 583 (HSB 242.)
Attachment
02-26-2025
Leslie Shalabi []
CON
02-26-2025
Monica Nieves Hirsch []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583. This bill is an appalling attack on the rights of Iowans. As a cisgender, heterosexual woman who deeply supports our trans community, I am gravely concerned about the harm this bill will cause, putting many citizens safety at risksomething that should be a top priority for our legislators and leaders. The very introduction of this bill is unfathomable, especially in a state that proudly declares, "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain."
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
Please, please do not codify discrimination. You will not look back on your life and be proud that you worked to make people's lives harder. Children will die because of your reckless acts.
02-26-2025
Danielle Pettit-Majewski [self]
CON
Thank you for your service to Iowans and your consideration of my concerns regarding HF 583, the bill to remove transgendered Iowans from the civil rights code.I ask that you please be a no vote on this bill, my reasons follow.It is unfair and disruptive to people trying to make a life here in Iowa. They are being targeted for no reason other reason than their existence. Government should leave them alone.This bill doesnt pass any tests of conservatism. It is an abuse of a perfectly reasonable ideology.It is an overreach into peoples lives causing them to upend their lives for fear of their govt.It does nothing to increase Iowas economic productivity. We want all Iowans to be contributors so as not to become a burden on our social safety net. Instead, people will not continue to make their lives here for fear of being arrested for using the restroom or being denied a loan for a home. More likely being denied employment. One of these families is friends with mine. They have the money to leave. Others may need to rely on taxpayer programs because they don't have money to leave.As a woman, I have used bathrooms with a transgendered person at my workplace. It wasn't a problem and I never felt scared. These are unsubstantiated fears expressed in a very loud echo chamber. It is irrational to be more fearful of this population compared to others. The data does not agree.What is scary, to me, is this behavior by the governing party. It's very scary.To have a super majority of Republicans go into the civil rights act to remove the rights of transgendered Iowans is bullying and intimidation at best tyranny at worst. We know our history. We know why these laws are needed. Human nature posits that Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely and I believe it's what I'm witnessing in Iowa's legislature.When the majority goes after the minority for religiously driven reasons that is tyranny. This bill leaving Iowa as the only state in the nation to ever remove statutory civil rights is cruel, unusual, and a great overreach of government.Iowa has many groups with their own culture within Iowas culture. And who are different than the general make up of House Republicans. They exist and deserve to be left alone by their government. It is unfair and unjust to have their government go after them in this way.No group should not have to justify their existence to their government. You all are so much stronger with the power of the government behind you. You have power and they dont.This bill is wrong on so many levels. Please vote no. Especially if you feel it possible that members of your caucus would say that transgendered people need to be separated from the general population. Perhaps because they are illegal or because they need to be reeducated or psychologically evaluated. I believe these are the next steps to getting rid of undesirables.Lastly, 23% of Gen Z identify as LGBTQ+. As we're looking to recruit newly graduating doctors, dentists, nurses and mental health professionals; these kind of policies will drive young people out of our state. Thank you for your consideration. Please vote no on this bill.
02-26-2025
Misha Miller []
CON
When you are proposing Bill HSB 242, you are removing gender identity from the Iowa city civil rights act, and you will be be the first state to remove a protected class from its civil rights act.I want you to think about why you would let a bill like this pass. Why you would let this bill even be in consideration? Everyone deserves to have their civil rights, it doesnt matter if their different, were all still people. Even if you take them away and take gender identity out of schools and out of your bills were still here, that doesnt change the fact that were all still alive. And we arent going anywhere.
02-26-2025
Joshua Koza []
CON
I prize the rights of ALL Iowans. They will be MAINTAINED.
02-26-2025
Ethan Grant []
CON
I cannot believe this is even on your guys' desk right now. If you are misguided towards thinking this bill is going to protect anyone, I highly encourage you guys to reconsider. I have trans friends in this state who are good, hard working individuals who need these protections to even have a place to live. I encourage the good in any of our state reps hearts to come to the forefront on this matter. This only creates more hurdles and roadblocks for people who are already fighting a major uphill battle just trying to be themselves; not harming anyone. Please do not make more of your own citizens more embarrassed to be in this state than they already are.
02-26-2025
Tiffany Smith []
CON
I am writing to Express my concern regarding HF583. I am the mother of a transgender daughter, and I am deeply hurt and saddened by the representatives, wishing to take the rights away from my daughter. We are all human and we are all Iowans and we all deserve the same rights. The past several years during the legislative sessions, I have cried many tears with my daughter, as our state swiftly takes away simple liberties of transgender people. I spend the year thinking about what vile bills are our Republican representatives and senators will come up with that are going to further hurt the transgender community. And every year, I am more shocked and shocked because I could not have dreamt of the evil things that they have come up with. This bill is no different, just when I think it cant get much worse, here it is. Why must you hate people who are not like you? Please hear my words, and put yourself in my shoes. Better yet, put yourself in the shoes of a transgender person, and see what it is to feel the hate from people who wish to erase your existence. Please find it within your heart to not pass this piece of legislation.
02-26-2025
Tehya Miles [None]
CON
Hi Im reaching out to ask for you with an urgent requestto speak as a private citizen to oppose removing gender identity from the Iowa civil rights code. I believe this affects health and wellness in multiple ways, most importantly This bill strips gender identity as a protected class in cases of employment, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit/lending. A law that allows for no recourse for discrimination will result in upstream actions that have impacts on the physical and mental health of real people. The removal of civil rights from a population that already suffers from disparate health outcomes is a public health concern. if you read the public comments in favor of this bill and listen closely to the legislators telling us how they have to do this to protect the rights of women, it is clear that it doesnt stop with gender identity. The word right next to that in the civil right act is sexual orientation, and commenters are calling that out as the next step. The transgender population is small and if you are using raw numbers in your calculation about whether taking a vocal stand is strategic or not, know that this step will not appease the legislators. Instead, they will be left the realization that this was much easier than they had anticipated and immediately make plans for their next steps.As a queer Black woman living in this state, I fear for not only my own life, but the lives of those closest to me if this bill were to pass. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Chelsea Cheney []
CON
This is an extremely harmful bill that targets a vulnerable population that politicians are elected to help protect, not discriminate against using laws as a weapon. Giving rights to all people and protecting everyone in their civil rights helps everyone. No one loses when all people have rights. Everyone loses when one group is stripped of their rights.
02-26-2025
Alison Alldredge []
CON
Removing these protections means that trans people will be open to discrimination for housing , education employment, and healthcare. The concept of equal rights does not allow for other citizens to decide who gets rights and which ones they can ignore because they affect their personal beliefs. We dont get to pick who deserves rights and who doesnt. We all get the same ones. The point of explicit rights for protected classes is that people are inclined to discriminate based on minority differences and our government and society are charged with making sure everyone has the same chances and opportunities. This bill endangers that. It is your job as legislators to make sure minority classes are protected.Please consider the consequences of this bill as if it were your own child trying to rent an apartment or apply for schools and jobs.
02-26-2025
Kat Power [Teachers ]
CON
My name is Kat Power and I am an educator in the LinnMar Community School District. I am opposed to HF 583.I became a teacher because I believe helping kids succeed to the best of their abilities is one of the most important contribution I can make. I am also the faculty sponsor for LinnMars Gay/Straight Alliance Club. Students come into my classroom and into the club from different neighborhoods, backgrounds, abilities, and identities. They all want the same thing: to be treated with respect and dignity in a safe space where they can learn, grow, and thrive.In 2007, the Iowa Legislature and Governor expanded the Iowa Civil Rights Act to include protections for gender identity. They rightly believed that this protection was necessary and would improve our states ability to stop harmful practices targeted at some. This expansion has stood for almost 20 years with no adverse consequences to other Iowa citizens, so why scale back now? Rights for all people does not take away the rights from other groups.The arguments you have read and heard today and in the past about god, only two genders, moral rightness, locker rooms and bathrooms, truly has nothing to do with this bill. Denying people dignity, respect, healthcare, and safety in their community, employment, and living situations is the focus of this bill. You do not have to like someone to know that they deserve just as much protection as you do and they deserve the same civil rights you do. Why deny people these protections?Do legislators and the governor know that transgender kids are more at risk for suicide, homelessness, and discrimination today? Do they care that my students will live in a state that puts politics over their health and safety? Peoples rights should not be. A bipartisan debate. It should be common sense that all people, i will say again, ALL PEOPLE, deserve civil protections in every aspect of their lives. I will never stop caring about all of my students or my trans siblings. Why is my government not caring about all of them too?Please oppose HF 583. Please do not let my students believe they are not important enough to support and protect.
02-26-2025
Ashley perez [Concerned citizen ]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Evette perez [Citizen]
CON
CON
02-26-2025
Rylar Oetken [We the people ]
CON
02-26-2025
Rev. Nate Nims [Walnut Hills UMC]
CON
My name is Nate Nims, the pastor at Walnut Hills United Methodist Church in Urbandale, Iowa, and I live in Des Moines. I write to urge this body to uphold the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, guided by both my faith and the moral imperative to protect marginalized communities.The United Methodist ChurchsBook of Disciplinedeclares:Because all people are of sacred worth we are committed to supporting the equal rights, liberties, and protections of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity We call on governments to combat discrimination and violence and promote equal rights for all.(163, 2020/2024 UMC Book of Discipline).To remain silent in the face of injustice is to be complicit. As people of faith and conscience, we cannot endorse policies that deny the sacred worth of any human being. I urge you to act with moral clarity and ensure our laws reflect the dignity ofallpeople.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [No organization ]
CON
Please respect all Iowans rights!!
02-26-2025
Amy Hilmes [Happy DSM, LLC]
CON
At Happy DSM, we believe in fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for everyone. HSB 242 is not just an attack on the rights of transgender individualsit sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the rights of all marginalized groups. As a small business in Valley Junction, we know that diversity strengthens our community, and discrimination has no place in a thriving, connected Iowa. We strongly oppose this bill and stand with our neighbors, customers, and fellow business owners in defending the dignity and rights of all people.
02-26-2025
Pamela Pluemer Walsh []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
Let's not be the first state in the nation to remove protections from our civil rights bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowa citizen]
CON
I say the following as a patriotic American and a person of faith: There is no sugarcoating the unconstitutional, discriminatory, racist, and misogynistic intent behind the bastardized definitions of equal and inherently unequal, being introduced into Iowa law here, as well as HF 583 in its entirety. Reject this bill and the clearly fascist intent behind it. What a shameful time to be an Iowan.It is revolting that MAGA Republicans on a state and national level are using legislation and disinformation to turn Americans against one another, pick our pockets, strip our rights, hollow out the Constitution, alienate our allies, corrupt the rule of law, destroy our privacy and national security, and force the practice of sectarian religious beliefs on all citizens. (In re: HF 583; 4.1A Statutory construction sex and related term; f. The term equal does not mean same or identical; g. Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal.)
02-26-2025
Joshua Moe []
CON
This legislation is not needed or wanted. Please focus your legislative efforts on issues that matter to Iowansthis isnt one of them.
02-26-2025
Katherine Wilson [None ]
CON
I disagree with this bill
02-26-2025
Clif Hughes []
CON
This bill is so harmful to so many and I vehemently oppose it.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Riselli [N/A]
CON
I am a resident and constituent of the state of Iowa. I am writing to make known my opposition to any and all bills that discriminate against transgender people. This includes efforts to retract access to affirming healthcare, sports, and public facilities that match their gender identity. Discriminatory efforts like these make the journeys of young people more difficult than they need to be. I am an ally and friend of my community and taking rights away is not what this country was predicated upon. Do the right thing and vote NO.
02-26-2025
Mike Wolfe [Mr.]
CON
Iowans count on their state lawmakers to provide guidance consistent with federal laws and regulations. The 2023 change in Iowa labor laws did not follow federal rules and caused thousands of dollars in fines to Iowans who trusted their state lawmakers. Removing civil rights protections from trans Iowans is not consistent with federal interpretations of federal law. Discrimination based on gender identity is discrimination based on sex. Any Iowan who acts on the guidance of HF583 in housing or employment decisions will be at risk for compensatory and punitive damages. Please dont support this legislation.
02-26-2025
Molly Anderson []
CON
02-26-2025
Carla []
CON
I was born and grew up in Iowa. I was taught that our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. This bill attempts to eliminate the rights of many Iowans, whether they be transgender, intersex, and cisgender. It is not in line with Iowas values to enable and indeed encourage discrimination. I am against this bill and everything it stands for.
02-26-2025
Patrick Took []
CON
I grew up in Iowa, I work in Iowa, I want to believe in Iowa. This bill will put children and adults in harms way who are already the most vulnerable population for discrimination and hate crimes. Trans Iowans are Iowans. This is not addressing a real need in any community, I dont think you can name any harmed constituents that this bill assists.Please spend your time doing anything else to help Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
Iowa nice doesnt involve giving any group less rights than another in our state. Women are historically in far greater danger from men and I dont see the state trying to limit mens civil rights. Enough with the hate, lets get to real issues that affect Iowans and make our state government a place that helps people rather than hurting them.
02-26-2025
Gloria Heston []
CON
I believe that all people should be able to live their life and have the rights as all people. I have had the privilege to love a grandchild who has suffered discrimination. Because all people are of sacred worth and certain basics rights are due to everyone. I am committed to supporting the equal rights, liberty and protection of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
02-26-2025
Tamara Andrews [Iowa citizen]
CON
I am against limiting protections for persons who choose to be transgender. I am against the passing of this bill. We need to protect all sorts of human beings because we are all human, just doing the best we can to live in peace.Do not do anything that could harm persons who are different than what you perceive to be the norm.
02-26-2025
Lisa Breitsprecker []
CON
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Abigail Paxton [Storyhouse Bookpub]
CON
I strongly oppose HF583 and urge legislators to listen to Iowans when we say that trans rights are human rights and I am grieved and worried about increased discrimination trans citizens and others, including other LGBTQ people and women, will face as a result of removing gender identity as a class protected under civil rights. As a small business owner and employer, I can attest that the this bill will also generate economic insecurity in our communities as we see transgender professionals, their families and others begin to leave our state for more welcoming states. This will hurt small businesses as well as myriad other fields which ultimately hurts us all. Please oppose HF583 and keep our state a place where we can all mutually flourish.
02-26-2025
Megan Bannister [N/A]
CON
Please vote against HF 583. Not only does this bill legalize discrimination against Iowans based on their gender identity when it comes to finding housing, securing public accommodation, receiving an education, and utilizing their credit, but it also sets a dangerous precedent by deeming that separate spaces for people based on sex are not unequal, despite overwhelming evidence that inclusive and accessible spaces are crucial for trans Iowan's safety and dignity. It does not, as committee members have stated, make our state safer for women or preserve their rights. In fact, it directly puts them into jeopardy and allows for the future dissolution of our civil liberties.As a small business owner, policies like these make me question growing my company in a place that doesn't advocate for the rights of all citizens. As an Iowan, I find it shameful that the legislators of a state whose slogan heralds "prizing our liberties" and "maintaining our rights" spend so much time actively trying to take away the rights of their constituents. There are so many real issues impacting our state and the fact that our legislators spend so much of their time bullying trans and gender nonconforming Iowans is frankly unacceptable.Please vote against this bill and preserve the civil rights of all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Independent ]
CON
Iowa continues to move backward rather than forward. If this continues, the State will continue to crumble. It is an embarrassment to see the decisions that have been made of late. Attacking civil rights and core human rights is shameful. Those who have proposed this are not representing the best interests of all of their constituents. I oppose this regressive legislation.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [St Ambrose University ]
CON
02-26-2025
Jayne Naughton []
CON
I strongly oppose Iowa's HF 583, a bill that strips transgender individuals of vital civil rights protections. This legislation is a direct attack on the dignity and equality of transgender Iowans. No one should be denied basic protections or treated as less than simply because of who they are. Laws should uphold fairness and justice for all, not single out and harm a vulnerable community. HF 583 is not about safety or freedomit is about discrimination. I urge lawmakers to reject this cruel and unjust bill.
02-26-2025
Kari Blakeslee [None]
CON
02-26-2025
John Naughton []
CON
Iowas HF 583 is a cruel and unjust attack on the rights and dignity of transgender people. By stripping civil rights protections from an already vulnerable community, this bill sends a dangerous message that some Iowans are less deserving of equality under the law. I am deeply concerned about the harm this will causedenying people their rights does not make anyone safer; it only fosters discrimination and division. I urge lawmakers to stand on the side of justice and reject this harmful legislation.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The first portion of this attempts to formalize a particular political viewpoint that is not based on "fact" but is based on tradition and language usage preference. That is not ridiculous, although it is offensive and unnecessary. Legislating the meaning of words to vary from how they are currently used by most style guides, academic publications, and conversational English is obnoxious and an overreach of government. However, the more egregious overreach in this bill is to attempt to remove a historically abused and maligned minority from protection under the law under the pretense they don't actually exist. Forbidding words that describe them doesn't make them cease to exist. The bill is disgusting in its overtly hateful and discriminatory aim, and holds no rational basis other than codifying one particular religious point of view into our secular government, which is wrong.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill would set a dangerous precedent in removing protections from a class of people, based solely on the misunderstanding and fear of those people. Its based on non truths and misinformation, is written by people who clearly have never had any contact with anybody from the LGBTQ community, and it opens the door for future prosecution and discrimination of the LGBTQ community broadly in society. As Iowans, we need to stand up for the basic dignity of all of our citizens, whether we understand them or not. We used to be a state people could be proud to live in. We are fast becoming a backwards fundamentalist nightmare full of hate and fear. I urge you all to be better.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The bill HF 583 does nothing to further the interests of the people of our state, nor does it improve anything fiscally. It removes civil rights protections from Iowans, and by striking protection for these groups legitimizes discrimination against them. I am confused as to why a group would need to be removed from this protected class.This is neither a prudent use of our politicians' time or our tax dollars, and does nothing but drive these people away from the state of Iowa, where we purport to prize and maintain our liberties and rights.The goal of this bill appears to be punishing a group Iowans for something that a subset of politicians and think tank lobbyists don't like. It dehumanizes American citizens that contribute as much to our state as anyone else. This shouldn't be a partisan issue. In fact this shouldn't be an issue at all.You can say that it's unlikely that this discrimination happens, but it's easy to not see something when it's not happening personally (especially when it is regarding a person that doesn't fit your personal beliefs that you may not want to see or acknowledge). I know these things happen, because I watched my mother get turned away from renting apartments when I was a teen because she was a single mother. Did my mother not deserve these protections because her renting there MIGHT result in additional cost or time to a landlord? These groups are protected BECAUSE they are vulnerable to this kind of abuse, and there are few groups that endure as much as those that don't fit perfectly into a predetermined box.This bill is simply promoting discrimination against an entire group of people. By removing the status of a protected class it immediately says that it's acceptable to discriminate against humans simply living their lives, telling a specific set of Iowans "we don't think you are worth equal consideration". It allows for discrimination against them regarding "employment, wages, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit practices based upon certain characteristics of a person". These people can be denied a job, a raise, housing, education, credit and even real estate appraisal services in the event they wanted to move away! This even applies to people that have already undergone surgical reassignment, as their sex may not match their birth certificate. In what way is that valuable to Iowans? These people are Iowans too.What has this group of citizens done that warrants their removal as a protected class? What are the specific grievances where their protection has caused undue harm and cost writ large and how does that compare to providing the same opportunities to other Iowans. If we are removing rights from Iowans there surely ought to be a strong and valid legal and moral reason to do so outside of "I don't like those people," which has never been a valid reason to deny protection to any human. Why is the removal of rights a sudden priority for our state?At one time we led the nation in values that reflected inclusion, growth, and education a time when it didnt matter what the rest of the country was doing because we were going to do the right thing. Somehow that seems to have regressed to the point that bills like this are being pushed through to single out and marginalize people that aren't deemed "normal" by our politicians. You don't have to like what someone does or who they are to respect and value them as an Iowan and a human and these are still Iowans that you are in office to represent and protect. Dont turn your backs on these people in your communities across this great state.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My generation is proud to have non binary/trans individuals and they deserve the right to be themselves. Not being forced to conform to something that they do not feel comfortable with, or feel is not true to who they are.
02-26-2025
David E Timmer [Central College]
CON
I am strongly opposed to HF 583. It is not a thoughtful and compassionate policy proposal to help us navigate this new issue. Instead, it is based on reactionary anger and denialism. The State of Iowa can and must do better than this!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [American]
CON
This bill promotes outright discrimination, and stabs at the heart of our constitution specifically the 14th amendment. This is an attempt by the government to chip away at our constitutional rights, whats next voting rights, gun rights. Passing a bill such as this is just the start to removing our freedoms.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Brad Pollpeter [Self]
CON
Denial of humanity is an abdication of duty.
02-26-2025
Kaitlyn Naughtin []
CON
As a transgender Iowan, the few rights I do have in place to protect myself and my friends and loved ones are amongst the very few things providing me with a sense of safety, security, and community given the current state of the country. HF 583 is a direct attack against not only my dignity, but my safety, my identity, and my right to exist in this state and in this nation. This bill will not keep anyone safe, and will only enable further mistreatment, harm, and discrimination against transgender individuals in the state of Iowa. Transgender people have been around for hundreds of years, and we will continue to perservere, fight for our rights, and do so until we can thrive and live with pride and without fear. And I urge all lawmakers, constituents, and allies to join our fight on the side of justice.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Road Queen ]
CON
Stop taking our rights and freedoms away & DO your job !! Cancer is # 2 and is much much important than this plus many other pressing issues! Our Iowa flag says it ALL.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Private Citizen ]
CON
Trans people are only 1% of our population and they do not pose a single threat to the population at large. The 1% of the population we need to be concerned about are the CEOs and corporations that are killing us. Our attention needs to be on regulating them and keeping them from destroying our lives, our state's resources, and our environment, not trans people changing their gender/sex markers on identification documents or playing sports for fun.
02-26-2025
Rev. Nathan Williams []
CON
As a Presbyterian pastor, I cannot stand by while an individual group is singled out for legislative erasure. While people of good faith can and do disagree about the religious status of gender diversity, there is no room for discrimination in civil rights and liberties. My denomination called for civil equality for LGBTQ+ people decades before we embraced full inclusion in our religious life. I am personally and religiously committed to true equality and protection for all.Theres a common argument against listing protected groups of people in nondiscrimination policies and civil rights laws: we should just treat everyone equally without putting them in categories. I understand the sentiment. Iowans believe in equal rights, and we were a leader in equality for generations. We know that civil rights laws are not about granting special treatment, they are about ensuring that everyone is actually treated equally. Every Iowan needs the support and protection of a robust state civil rights law. HF 583 would specifically remove civil rights protections from one named group of people. This is not complicated: The attempt to remove transgender Iowans from the civil rights law clearly illustrates why they need protection in the first place.
02-26-2025
Annie Howard [N/A]
CON
I urge my legislators to please vote against this bill. Should HF 583 be passed, it would cause so much suffering for so many Iowans. I worry for young queer Iowans especiallyto have discrimination and erasure written into their laws before they can even vote is not only a clear message that their legislators do not care about them and their lives, but is also extremely dangerous to these young peoples physical, mental, and emotional safety. Queer people have always existed. Trans people have always existed. And they will continue to exist. There are so many queer and trans people in this state contributing to Iowas legacy and greatness. Please do not abandon these Iowans. Please do not abandon those you swore to serve. Please vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Mary Nilles-Putchio [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Katie Eshelman []
CON
02-26-2025
Karen Cyndari [N/a]
CON
Stop scapegoating a microscopic population who do no harm to no one under the excuse of protecting women, who never asked for your protection. Keep government out of the bathroom, for goodness sake. Trans rights are human rights, and identity should be protected. Never thought legislators would be such cowards as to peddle this nonsense. "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." This includes the right to identity.
02-26-2025
Suzanne Coen [Self]
CON
Civil rights for all are the rights that guarantee equal treatment and justice under the law for every person in the United States, regardless of a person's race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, and sexual orientation. It is not about only granting these protections to certain groups. This bill would legalize discrimination against transgender Iowans which is unfathomable. Everyone deserves to be protected and not in fear that those rights will be stripped away. Let's do better.
02-26-2025
Catherine Caitlin []
CON
I am strongly against this legislative discrimination against trans persons. It is unconstitutional, hateful and cruel . This legislation denies people the right to be who they are and negates their identity. To what end? To satisfy Iowa republicans MAGA masters? To systematically negate all who are not white, male , and conservative, starting with trans persons? This legislation addresses no problem or issue, this is blatant discrimination. It is not who we are and I vehemently oppose it. Do better. Focus on real issues. Stop the hatred agenda.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Gardner []
CON
This bill will remove rights from Iowans! If they are able to twist reality to justify taking one group's rights, they can take any group's rights. Our state's motto: Our Liberties We Prize, Our Rights We Will Maintain. If you pass this bill, please change the motto to, Republicans Will Trample Your Rights, They Only Like Their Liberties.Please vote NO on this bill.
02-26-2025
Brianne Sanchez [Self]
CON
Iowa should be a safe, welcoming place for people regardless of their sex/gender identity. Removing Civil Rights for currently protected citizens sets an awful precedent and will lead to wonderful LGBTQ neighbors fleeing our state.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [citizen]
CON
Please vote against this bill! It is trying to legislate bigotry and is an absolutely repulsive concept. All people are entitled to safe housing and healthcare, everyone should have equal access to education and employment. This bill targets approximately 1% of the population and is nothing but hate. Despite the clear bigotry and prejudice of the bill's authors, I beg of the committee to please consider the ramifications of this bill. Hate for hate sake will never be the right thing to do. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Do onto others as you'd have done on to you. Be better than this bill. Stand up to hate. Thank you!
02-26-2025
Jen Lennon []
CON
I am writing to ask you to reject HF583, a bill that will remove civil rights protections for transgender Iowans from state law. This bill removes protection from discrimination in employment, wages, public accommodations, housing, education and credit practices. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HF583.
02-26-2025
Will []
CON
It is awful that we are actively trying to take away rights of Iowans because some hateful people don't understand the complexities of biology, or because they are just scared of people who are different from them.
02-26-2025
Anthony Bopp []
CON
This hateful and hurtful legislation helps no one and harms many. It is disrespectful to Iowa and subjects all opens to the most despicable images of what the nation thinks doesn't are like. Be reasonable. Be Christian.
02-26-2025
Melanie Bouslog []
CON
This legislature needs to focus on the problems in this state and the ability for all people to be protected under Iowa law is NOT one of them. Trans individuals just want the same protections and freedoms that you have, nothing more and nothing less and this is what they deserve! Instead of focusing on discriminating against them, how about focusing on the real issues in the state and I'll start with 3: food insecurity 1/9 individuals in Iowa are food insecure with 1/6 being children, increasing maternal and infant mortality rates (so much for pro birth) and lack of access to mental health providers. Let's start there instead of continuing to attack people who are just going about living their lives.
02-26-2025
Leanne Parker []
CON
02-26-2025
Rick Langel [Private citizen]
PRO
Gender dysphoria is a mental illness and must be treated as such. It does not deserve validation in law, so the removal of it from state law is appropriate.
02-26-2025
Ava mohr []
CON
02-26-2025
Carol Smith [Grandparent]
CON
DO NOT pass this bill!!There is literally no reason to refuse transgenders of their civil rights. We are all Americans!!Our granddaughter is transgender and I want her to be proud of her birth state and her country!!Vote NO!!
02-26-2025
Anupam Mittra [Youth non-profit leadership ]
CON
This is a terrible bill to further disenfranchise citizens. There's no good reason to take rights away from minorities.In addition, it continues to create a very negative perception of the state. Takes the whole "Iowa Nice" bit and tosses it in the dumpster in lieu for "Iowa isn't kind to minorities"
02-26-2025
Katy Siddall []
CON
I am so grateful that MY legislators are opposing HF583. But it is devastating that, of all the pieces of legislation the Governor and Republicans could give an expressway and rush through the process, it is one to attack the lives of Iowans who are transgendered.This bill is unIowan and it is unAmerican. But it is what Reynolds and Republicans care most about. They would rather attack those they see differently than address the pressing needs of the day. Why are you not fasttracking a bill to fund cancer research? Where is the push to pass affordable housing or revitalize access to childcare? There are tens of thousands of Iowa jobs in need of workers. But, instead of speeding up a bill to incentivize keeping college grads and attracting new workers, Reynolds and Republicans are telling them they are not welcome here. Their friends are not welcome here. Their loved ones are not welcome here. Iowans are proving they will not sit back and watch Republicans cut our neighbors out of our Civil Rights Code. We are standing up in mass against this bill, and we will stand up against all legislators who let this bill stain Iowa's history books. Please oppose this horrible bill, stop attacking Iowa minorities for simply being different from you, and pass bills that make life easier for all of us.
02-26-2025
Bridget Laflin []
CON
Bills like HF583 hurt people and families. Not just hypothetical trans people, but real, actual people. Real Iowans will suffer if this bill passes. I moved to Iowa from Texas last August, and I personally know the devastation that can be caused when you take away civil rights from trans people. After antitrans legislation was passed there, several families that I know personally felt that they needed to leave Texas in order to keep their children safe and healthy. They left behind their extended families, which means grandparents dont get to be a regular part of their grandchildrens lives, cousins dont get to play and grow up together. These families left their neighborhoods, their jobs, their schools, their religious communities, and had to start over in a new place all because the state took away their childrens civil rights. I dont want to see that happen here, but it will if this bill passes.As a Unitarian Universalist faith leader, I believe that all people have the same inherent worth and dignity and have the right to equal treatment and protection. If this bill passes, Iowa will be the first state to take away the civil rights of people who are already protected by the law. Do you really want to be the people to be known for taking away peoples civil rights? A quick look back through history shows that people who remove other peoples civil rights are generally not the good guys. I beg you. Please vote no on this bill and continue to protect the rights of all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Kristina H. []
CON
Reject HF 583! Respect our friends, neighbors, and fellow Iowans. Do not take away their civil rights. Do not be the first state to take away rights that were previously granted. Do not go backwards when we could continue moving forwards and ensure freedom and equity for ALL! Standing in solidarity with my fellow Iowans who oppose this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
As a medical professional dedicated to providing care for all patients, including transgender individuals, I strongly oppose House File 583. This bill is not only a misrepresentation of biological and medical science but also a direct threat to the wellbeing of countless individuals who do not fit into its rigid and inaccurate definitions of sex and gender.1. Medical Reality: Sex is More Complex Than This Bill RecognizesThe bill assumes that sex is a binary classification strictly determined at birth. However, medical science tells us otherwise. Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, Turner syndrome, and other intersex variations demonstrate that biological sex is not simply male or female. Many individuals are born with chromosomal, hormonal, and anatomical variations that challenge this simplistic framework. This bill fails to account for these realities and instead enforces a definition that disregards medical evidence.2. Harm to Patients with Medical Conditions That Affect AppearanceBy legally enforcing a narrow definition of sex, this bill will disproportionately harm individuals beyond the transgender community, particularly those with medical conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and other endocrine disorders that may cause variations in secondary sex characteristics. Imagine Sarah, a woman in her early 30s who has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder that can cause increased facial hair growth, a deeper voice, and other traits often associated with masculine characteristics. Sarah has never questioned her identity as a woman, but one day, while using a public restroom, someone accuses her of being in the wrong bathroom. Under House File 583, which enforces rigid definitions of sex, she has no legal protection against this harassment. Instead, she is humiliated, forced to prove her identity simply because her appearance doesnt fit someone elses expectations.Now consider James, a man who was born with Klinefelter syndrome (XXY chromosomes), a condition that means he was assigned male at birth but has some traits typically associated with female development, such as gynecomastia (breast tissue growth). He has lived his whole life as a man, but under this bills strict biological definitions, his identity could be questioned. Imagine the shame and confusion he might feel if denied something as simple as updating his drivers license because he doesnt fit a rigid, outdated legal definition of male.Or think about Alex, a teenage boy who isnt transgender but prefers longer hair and wears colorful clothing. Under the cultural climate fostered by this bill, he is bullied at school and falsely accused of trying to deceive others about his sex. He becomes isolated, his mental health declines, and worse he could end up in a suicide like the many suicides in teenagers that we are seeing in Iowa. We should be designing bill to address the things that are killing our teens, not to put more barriers to provide care for them. I would like for anyone in this forum that is in support of this bill, to show how anyone in Iowa have been physically harm or loss their live as a result of codifying gender identity into the Iowa code. Instead we know how this legislation opens the door for harassment, discrimination, and exclusion, punishing people simply for bot fitting a binary gender mold, weather it is for biological reasons, medical conditions of for simply not liking the same clothes as the majority. 3. Legal and Ethical Concerns in HealthcareAs physicians, we follow ethical principles that prioritize patient wellbeing and dignity. This bill would place doctors in a difficult position, potentially forcing them to record or report biological markers that conflict with a patients lived reality, contributing to psychological harm. Additionally, denying individuals the ability to update their documents to match their gender identity can create barriers to healthcare, employment, and housing. Frthermore, The American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and numerous other medical organizations recognize that genderaffirming care is essential for health and wellbeing. As a healthcare professional, my duty is to provide compassionate, evidencebased care to all patients, and this bill would actively obstruct that mission. I urge lawmakers to reject this harmful legislation and instead support policies that uphold dignity, respect, and scientific integrity in our laws. Respecting the individual differences and recognizing the biological bases for many circumstances beyond gender dysphoria that lead to different appearances and that would cause undue harm in many many individuals in our communities, promote hate and often expose people to public humilliation, just for looking different.
02-26-2025
Adam Van Wyk [Self]
CON
This bill is cruel and meanspirited. We all deserve to live as we choose, to be respected, and treated as equals by the law.
02-26-2025
Sarah Skiles []
CON
Reject HF 583! Respect our friends, neighbors, and fellow Iowans. Do not take away their civil rights. Do not be the first state to take away rights that were previously granted. Do not go backwards when we could continue moving forwards and ensure freedom and equity for ALL!
02-26-2025
Ryan Reynolds []
CON
I am firmly opposed to taking away the civil rights of any Iowans. This is a shameful, hatefilled bill that should embarrass anyone who values the teachings of Jesus Christ. Instead of teaching us to love our neighbors, to not cast stones, this bill attacks a very small, atrisk minority that is of no danger to anyone. Do not spread hate. Focus on issues that actually affect Iowans like our atrocious water quality and rising cancer rates.
02-26-2025
Tammy Shutters [Voter]
CON
02-26-2025
Chris Waddle [Mind & Spirit Counseling Center Urbandale IA]
CON
This bill makes life more difficult for trans people. People who already have had a difficult time just being themselves. From NPR:States that passed antitransgender laws aimed at minors saw suicide attempts by transgender and gender nonconforming teenagers increase by as much as 72% in the following years, a new study by The Trevor Project says.The peerreviewed study, published published Thursday in the journal Nature Human Behavior, looked at survey data from young people in 19 states, comparing rates of suicide attempts before and after bans passed.
02-26-2025
Gail Allison []
CON
The only thing this law does is legalize discrimination against transgender people. It allows people to fire and deny housing with no other justification other than they are different. Its cruel and harmful and doesnt stand up to the principles that our state was founded on. This law is targeting a minority group who only wants to live their lives in peace. This is on a whole different cruelty level based in bigotry and ignorance. Vote NO on this bill.
02-26-2025
Chloe Hearn []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill goes against the very thing that our state stands for, and boasts about on our flag. Regardless of how you personally feel about the rights of transgender and LGBTQ+ identifying individuals, everyone deserves the right to express who they are.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As an Iowan I am disgusted and saddened that this bill is in place. This bill does not align with the majority of Iowans values. This bill will promote more hate, bigotry, and ignorance.I am a cis gender white straight female and I believe that everybody should have the right to their own identity; even if that doesnt match their birth certificate. The belief that this bill will protect children is far from the truth. Regardless if children are taught gender theory in school or not they still have access to the internet where they can find this information and use critical thinking skills to come up with their own opinions. Why not give them the space to figure out their self identity safely and free from criticism? Arent we all supposed to grow up and figure out what makes us unique and thrive? This bill would only ostracized both children and adults that identify as anything other than male or female. This lack of acknowledgement of their selfidentity can lead to increased levels of anxiety, low self esteem, and various other mental health disorders. What do you gain from taking away another persons sense of self and overall contributing to the rising mental health crisis in this country?If this passes, it would mean Iowa is the first state to revoke rights and protections from a group of individuals. What does that tell the rest of the world about Iowa? What happened to midwest nice where we were accepting and friendly to each other. I am embarrassed and ashamed to call myself an Iowan. Everyone deserves the same rights and liberties. TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS
02-26-2025
Rhiannon Ernst []
CON
This bill is unnecessary, and needlessly cruel. I have always been proud to live in Iowa, because the state was kind, and accepting of all people. The move away from what I grew up believing Iowa values were is greatly concerning. I wanted to raise my son in a state that taught good values, and that everyone deserved equal rights, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or sex. If this bill passes, so much of what I admire about Iowa will be stripped away. It is getting harder and harder to justify staying and raising a child in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Lauren Matysik []
CON
Ever since hearing about this bill, I can't wrap my head around what word expresses how I'm feeling most. Disgusted. Disappointed. Enraged. Horrified. The fact that our state is even entertaining HF 583 is terrifying and sickening. I've spent my entire life defending Iowa to outsiders, letting them know that we're proud defenders of human rights and civil liberties. I remember the day that gay marriage was legalized in Iowa and being so proud of my decision to stay in the state I grew up in. Today I can assure you that I question why anyone would want to call this place home when the people in power show not only so little care, but open malice to so many of the people that make Iowa wonderful to live in.I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with and celebrating trans individuals on their wedding day during my time as a wedding photographer. But even prior to this bill, hearing the fear most express of being judged, turned away, or worse by vendors is heartbreaking. No oneNO ONEshould ever be turned away simply for existing. Passing this bill is stripping people of their rights to live and exist in a community that they have done nothing but love, support, and contribute to.If the people in power in Iowa use that power to hurt Iowans, they are not doing their jobs. Trans people do not hurt Iowa, but passing this bill absolutely will.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
America was founded on Christianity and taught it is not right to hold judgement onto others. BUT, following the golden rule should STILL remain. Treat others how you would want to be treated or do unto others as you would yourself. So why is it okay to not have respect and treat others for who they want to be if it is a free country? Get to know people who are protrans. Youll find out, just like yourself that they are human. Their heart beats just the same as yours. Youll also discover common interests and create new friendships. To treat another human like a foreign object/being isnt educated, its just inhumane. Everyone has a voice. Let their voice matter & dont be hypocritical against another human. Weve had friends move states away because they no longer feel safe living in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This proposed bill is a violation of the individual rights of trans people. Unlike what our current antieducation legislators think, being trans isn't a choice. People are born trans. To discriminate against someone because of how they are born is a hate crime. This bill would propose the legalization of hate crimes. Shame on whoever proposed this bill. Trans people existing does nothing negative to your lives.
02-26-2025
Jonathan Grueder []
CON
Please do not pass this bill. Regardless of how you feel about anyone the passage of this bill would legalize discrimination. It would allow for Iowans to be denied the right to buy a home or rent a property. It would allow Iowans to be denied a job simply for who they are. It would demy Iowans their rights to equality under the law. This bill is wrong, discriminatory and hateful. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Dr. Angie Wild, MD [none]
CON
Firstly, I fail to see how this act helps any person, in any way, whatsoever, in the State of Iowa! Shame on legislation. Iowa needs unity, not be continually divided by hatred of the unknown and misperceived. We do not need to be the first in the race to the bottom. This legislation seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, a move that poses significant risks to the physical and mental health of transgender individuals in our state.HF 583 would create a barrier for transgender individuals seeking necessary medical care due to fear of mistreatment or refusal of services. The absence of legal safeguards may embolden discriminatory practices, leading to delayed or foregone medical interventions. Such delays can result in the exacerbation of medical conditions, increased emergency room visits, and overall poorer health outcomes.This small segment of the population already face elevated rates of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, often stemming from societal stigma and discrimination. The enactment of HF 583 would institutionalize such discrimination, potentially intensifying feelings of isolation and hopelessness. This environment can contribute to a higher incidence of mental health crises, including suicidal ideation and attempts, thereby increasing the strain on our already thinned emergency mental health services.House File 583 undermines the principles of medical ethics, which emphasize the provision of care without prejudice. By legally permitting discrimination against transgender individuals, this bill jeopardizes their health and wellbeing and contravenes the commitment of healthcare professionals to do no harm. I urge lawmakers to consider the detrimental health impacts this legislation would have on transgender Iowans and to uphold the civil rights protections that ensure equitable and just treatment for all.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Let's live up to the state motto.
02-26-2025
Lisa Fleming []
CON
As your constituent and a supporter of Civil Rights for ALL Iowans, I am writing today to ask that you vote NO on HF 583, a bill that would strip gender identity as a protected characteristic from the Iowa civil rights law including in employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit. HF 583 threatens to strip away critical rights and considerations for LGBTQ+ people under Iowa law. An attack on LGBTQ+ Iowans is an attack on ALL Iowans. Any attempt to erase fellow Iowans from our laws is discrimination and will lead to real harm. Dont take away rights from Iowas LGBTQ+ community. Discrimination is wrong, and it has no place in our state.HF 583 is contrary to the values we hold most sacred as Iowans. Do not make Iowa the first state in the nation to, shamefully, repeal civil rights protections for its citizens. Do not turn back the clock on our state's civil and human rights progress. Please stand with me and vote NO on HF 583! Thank you!
02-26-2025
Tara Martin [None]
CON
I oppose this bill and ask my elected representatives to vote against this bill. This bill only hurts Iowa families and does not protect Iowa students or women. VOTE NO!
02-26-2025
Sara Schneden []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill sucks and doesnt protect women. Thats just ridiculous.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowan]
CON
Absolutely no to this bill. Do not take away rights. Full stop.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please fight this anti LBGTQ legislation. Iowa is taking a bully approach against an already marginalized group of people. The result of this cannot be good for the state. We send a very unwelcoming message and stand to lose productive citizens because they are unable to feel safe in Iowa
02-26-2025
Mia hatcher [DRAKE UNIVERSITY ]
CON
CON
02-26-2025
Corrine Jones [Concerned Citizen]
CON
I was born and raised in Iowa, and I now proudly am getting my PhD in Media Studies with a certificate in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies at the University of Iowa. While the Iowa legislature (and the VERY few PRO comments Ive seen here) seem to think they have a better grasp on these issues than those who have dedicated their lives to researching and understanding the concepts of sex and gender, not to mention those who actually have the LIVED EXPERIENCE of being a trans person or experiencing gender dysphoria, it seems most of the people in Iowa actually see this bill for what it is: a hateful farce. If only our representatives actually, I dont know, represented us. Gender identity and expression have a deep, embodied history, shared across continents, languages, and centuries, and striking the words from the states legislature will absolutely never change this. It will, however, be a dark mark on the history of our state, and an embarrassment to those of us who dont use Christs teachings as a stone to throw at those who are different than us. And, most importantly, it will ACTIVELY HARM IOWANS. Stop trying to protect Iowas women and try representing their interests: I promise next to none of us are asking for this. TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a lifelong Republican, I have always believed in personal freedom and the principle that the government should leave people alone. Stripping legal protections from a group of Iowans goes against those values and sets a dangerous precedent for government overreach into peoples lives. This bill does not solve any real problemit only singles out and harms individuals who want to live their lives in peace. If Iowa Republicans push this through, my family and I will seriously reconsider how we vote in the next midterm.
02-26-2025
Lauren Elliff []
CON
Every Iowan deserves to live without fear of discrimination. Quit wasting time and taxpayer resources on things that do nothing to make Iowans' lives better. History will not remember Iowa's leaders kindly if this is what you continue to stand for.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [personal]
CON
I strongly oppose hf 583.
02-26-2025
Carmen Hernandez []
CON
Protect rights of all citizens in their srlfdetermination and self identity.
02-26-2025
Mary Timmer []
CON
157,000 doctors from the APA agree that TRANS CAREis necessary and safe. If Iowa continues to target our most vulnerable citizens, our young people, teachers, and health providers will continue to leave the state. Please protect our state's tradition of protecting the rights and freedoms of all of us.
02-26-2025
Ashley McKenna []
CON
02-26-2025
Spenser Pfannenstiel [CCOM Medical Student]
CON
As a lifelong resident of Iowa, this bill, and others like it, are inexcusable. Instead of focusing on real issues affecting Iowans, bills like this are introduced. Instead of building a promising future for the youth, the focus is on tearing down the vulnerable. Instead of providing access to education, health care, and resources, pointless barriers are constructed. This bill is driven by fearmongering, anxiety, and a concerning lack of empathy for others. This bill is attempting to redefine "equal," saying it does not mean "same" or "identical;" a thesaurus was not consulted during the writing of this bill? As a medical student, I am concerned about how this will affect my future patients, my friends, and statewide communities. There are enough barriers to receiving appropriate medical care, do not let this bill and others like it become yet another.
02-26-2025
Max Pringle [Citizen of Iowa]
PRO
The consideration of HF 583 is at its core question of which ideology we will espouse in public policy. It is not whether but which it is not whether we will have a public policy on this sexual orientation, but which one we will have. In order to determine which position will be adhered to, we must appeal to an authority to determine which position is the moral and proper position. Will we listen to the creator of life who transcends creation or those who have not yet figured out how many genders actually exist?I contend that we allow the One who created us to speak with authority on this matter.So God, the creator of life, created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:27 I urge the passage of this bill.
02-26-2025
Amy Wilder [none--concerned community member]
CON
Regarding, HF 583, formerly HSB 242, from my perspective, this legislation basically makes discrimination legal in this state in terms of gender identity. This bill is nothing less than a legislative bullying of transgender people, creating a bogeyman to focus hatred upon, and creating a social problem where one really does not exist. History will not be kind for those who vote to codify discrimination. You are not heroes. You are bullies. Let transpeople live their lives and solve some real problems like cleaning up our watersheds, and discover why so many people are getting cancer in Iowa. HARD NO TO HF 583!!!
02-26-2025
Julie Jackson [n/a]
CON
This bill removes basic protections for transgender Iowans. It will make life difficult for other Iowans who do not clearly fall into the bills narrow definitions. Instead of protecting women and girls, it will result in harassment for many including those who are not transgender. There will be girls and women that the public will try to label as transgender who do not actually fit that definition. They will be caught up in this terrible bill. Everyone should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. This bill will lead to unfair treatment with no recourse whenrenting an apartment, getting a credit card, applying for employment, etc. This bill does not represent Iowa well. It is time to stand up topartisan directives. Stop bills that are allowing discrimination to any Iowan. If the House believes this bill is needed to support pastbills regarding transgender people, perhaps the past bills should be rescinded!!
02-26-2025
VaLinda J. Parsons []
CON
HF 583 is a cruel and punitive effort by uninformed and unscientifically aware Iowa legislators to deny that trans people exist. Why are you trying to make peoples' lives harder, when it's already difficult enough for trans people to be accepted in this world? Educate yourselves to realize sexuality is rarely blackandwhite, but more of a spectrum that each of us expresses as our Creator made us. This bill is not at all about using different restrooms or boys playing girls sports! It's ALL about the cruelty.
02-26-2025
Deanne Edwards [Merchants Bonding Company]
CON
In my role on a marketing team, every project starts with a need, the 'why' behind the project. I have not heard a single plausible reason for the legislature to pursue this bill, and ultimately strip Iowans of their civil rights. And be clear, I DO mean ALL Iowans, because what you do to one of us you do to all of us. You purport to be enacting the bill to 'protect' women in private spaces, which I've seen proponents of the bill define primarily as bathrooms and locker rooms. I challenge you to present a single incidence of violence by a transgender woman against another woman in these spaces. Personally, I've never been in a women's bathroom that isn't divided into stalls with doors. I've never looked at who was in a stall next to me, and I've certainly never looked at what was in their pants. I've also been in a multitude of locker rooms and don't spend my time peering at the others sharing the space. If the Republican party was TRULY interested in protecting women you'd return our autonomy over our bodies and restore unfettered access to healthcare. So, what's truly behind this assault on our rights? Your attempts to intimidate an already vulnerable group make you the equivalent of the masked thugs who stomped around Des Moines' East Village last weekend desperate to flaunt their selfdeclared 'superiority'. So why not reveal the true purpose behind these hateful bills, take off YOUR masks and show the world just how ugly your real motives are.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Monty Montero-Elliott []
CON
I oppose HF 583. This bill only makes sense if you take as a fact that trans people, particularly trans women, are by nature predatory and dangerous to cis women, that all women are at risk because some women are trans. This is not true. It is a vicious lie that has been used to justify all sorts of physical violence and social ostracism against trans women. This is not a bill about protecting any woman, or any group of women. This is about the immiseration of trans people and their further exclusion from public life. The impacts will be felt immediately with lost jobs, lost housing, lost finances, and the upending of what thin protections trans people still have. Don't give any more ground or credence to this this moral panic. Vote no.
02-26-2025
Conner Stanfield []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583. This bill is an attack on one of the most vulnerable groups of Iowans. Transgender people are valuable and beloved members of our communities at home, at work, at school, at church, and more. They deserve the same protections that are afforded to every other Iowan. The people of Iowa have repeatedly demonstrated that they oppose this awful bill. Our representatives should do as their job title demands and represent us. This deeply regressive bill is a shameful moment in Iowas history. I am proud to share that Iowa was one of the first states to legalize samesex marriage and is home to the place where the first Black officers were trained for the US military. I am ashamed, angered, and disgusted to know that we may also become the first state to repeal civil rights protections for any group. Nobody ever learns about the Civil Rights Movement and wishes that they could have fought harder against civil rights for all Americans. Be on the right side of history and vote against HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
An estimated 1 in 8 adult women in Iowa have been raped at some point in their life by men.An estimated 1 in 3 women in Iowa have experienced contact sexual violence in their lifetime by men. Iowa ranks second in the nation for the percentage of women who have experienced domestic violence in their lifetime.Nearly half (47%) of transgender people have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime.As a woman and parent to daughters, I've never, not once felt unsafe with a trans woman or man. I have never had concern with my children being around transgender people.The women in your community are not safe. However, the only people we need protection from are cis gender men.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
I oppose bill HF 583. All Iowans have the right to be protect under the law. Please reject HF 583.Thank youMelanie Koolbeck
02-26-2025
Sandra Marshall [Concerned citizen]
CON
When did the State of Iowa become "judge and jury" to take away rights to transgender people? Everyone has rights under our Laws and Constitution and no one person or persons have jurisdiction over another human being. All persons deserve love and respect, not be told they don't matter or even exist. Quit being afraid and forcing ridiculous laws and rules to people who just want to be respected and treated fairly.
02-26-2025
Laura []
CON
02-26-2025
Jean Hitchman []
CON
I am speaking AGAINST this piece of legislation which seeks to punish Iowans. All people are valid, and no one deserves the hateful treatment that trans, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, and intersex individuals have been receiving. We need to lift each other up, not tear each other down. Please vote against.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Hello, I am Ciara Blocker. I live in Davenport, Iowa and the last few years I have been a caretaker for my mom while she battled stage 4 uterine cancer and am an advocate for women's and lgbtq rights.I thank you for this opportunity to speak and wish I could say I am honored to speak to this assembly elected to represent the people of Iowa but I am ashamed that I have to be here at all. I have to come here to demand that this assembly reject this bill that would remove gender identity from the Civil Rights Act.This bill will strip the trans Iowans access to medical care, housing, employment, and public accommodation. In fact, Holt admitted as such when he pointed out that the reason for pushing this bill was to be able to deny what every major medical organization considers medically necessary care from trans individuals. Contrary to Holts claims that Bostock would ensure some rights to trans people the Trump administration is actually targeting trans people with the EEOC and is refusing to uphold Bostock as they try to erase the existence of trans people from legal frameworks in the federal executive branch. Given that, removing gender identity would leave trans Iowans with no legal protections. Furthermore, Holt named the three states with some of the largest populations, one being Texas and the other being Florida. Both states are currently actively targeting trans people. Florida is claiming that trans people with legal documents that match their gender are committing Fraud, has made trans people using restrooms felonious and is withholding medical care from trans patients to name just a few of the discriminatory and tryrannical laws the state has in place. Texas has similar many of the same laws as well. So Holt is incorrect when he says that the civil rights act's protection is not needed. It clearly is, both by his own later admittance of wanting to strip away gender affirming care and the fact that the states he referred to have what in Iowa would rightly be considered egregious civil rights abuses under the Civil Rights Act. To go further, Republicans seem to assume that trans people wake up one day and say I want to be this gender. Gender Identity is immutable, you can't change someone's internal sense of gender. And while some people's gender is fluid, that fluidity is there from the time their understanding for gender was formed. Most trans people understand from an early age that something is off, that they are different well before they transition. They always knew they were a boy, girl or nonbinary to some degree. Neuroscience has shown time and time again that while individual human brains are mosaic in nature our brains typically are marked with the underpinning framework of gender in utero.Trans women and girls brains respond the same as cis women's and girls to stimuli. Likewise, studies have shown both cis and trans women experience the same brian patterns when seeing their bodies change from more masculine to feminine and vice versa.Furthermore, trans women and cis women who experience phantom breasts are shown to be experiencing the same neurological phenomenon. The same is true for trans men and their cis counterparts What is going on with trans people isn't people pretending to be something they are not, it is a complex immutable experience that has been shown to have a mix of neurological, biological, and sociological interplay. It is also not a mental illness as some would believe so much as it is neurological and endocrinological in nature. If you take away my brain, what am I?When discrimination is controlled for and trans people are allowed relative parity in society scientists have noticed that the risks of depression, anxiety and suicidality go down to near their cis counterparts. When they are allowed access to gender affirming care their mental states improve and they have better outcomes. Both together functionally eliminate the differences in rates of suicidality, depression, anxiety and mental health outcomes trans people experience.Attempts to change people's gender identity have led to terrible outcomes. John Money, who wanted to prove that sexual orientation and gender identity were socially influenced and therefore could be changed with conversion practices, took the young David Reimer and tried to have his parents raise him as a girl. Despite never knowing he was born a male David asserted he was a boy until it was later revealed what had happened to David shortly after birth. David later committed suicide. Note under this bill the harm John Money caused to David Reimer, a cis boy whose circumcision he botched, is protected by this bill and the law banning access to gender affirming care to trans kids. Allowing corrective surgeries for intersex children, labeling them disabled and making the gender a doctor assigns a person at birth absolute enables the very same abuses against intersex children and cis children. This bill would also open up the door to allowing conversion practices that have been long since debunked and are noted to cause lifelong mental and physical harms to those made to undergo them. The fact that I have to explain any of this today makes me feel shame and contempt towards this body of legislators. Furthermore, this bill would create a precedent that would endanger the rights of every Iowan who isn't white, protestant christian, straight, cisgender and a man. The bill by Holt's own admission in committee would change the definition of equality to no longer mean equality that is to have similar or same treatment under the law this is separate but equal or as the pigs in Animal Farm said, all people are equal but some are more equal. Such a change would hamstring the functioning of the Civil Rights Act as Republicans would likely take aim at other protected groups on the list. It is foolish to believe they will stop with gender identity with the antipathy I saw expressed in the judiciary committee towards protected classes. The same Republicans that claim this bill is to protect women have gone out of their way to regulate the bodies of every person with a uterus in this state, putting their lives and health in jeopardy. In Texas, which Iowa's abortion ban mimics, rates of Sepsis have increased among women. The mortality rates of women and infants have also exploded.Considering the above, the DEI bans which benefit women and girls and the ban of scientifically accurate sex education the Republicans in this house has stripped women and girls of the proper understanding of their bodies, of the opportunities they have to achieve parity with their cis male counterparts, and of the rights they should have over their own bodies.This bill would help further widen that parity gap and promote inequality both by the definition of equality to mean separate but unequal and by forcing cis women to adhere to rigid gender norms lest they be accused of being trans and put through a litany of discrimination.It is absurd to claim that Republicans in this legislature care about protecting women with the assault that this legislature has taken against cis girls and women. Not to mention the growing push to trap women in abusive and exploitative marriages by outlawing no fault divorce and the attempts to limit women's right to vote that are being floated on the national stage and in other state legislatures. This legislature has been dead silent about any of those happenings and not even attempting to protect women from those real harms their own party is pushing for. Instead they would rather focus on weaponizing women as a mean to strip Trans people of their civil rights Republicans are clearly projecting onto trans people the harm they themselves are to women and girls. Cis women and girls are actually placed in danger by the policies and laws Republicans try to advance including this one.Finally, the legislature is setting itself up for a legal fight over the changing of Iowa's civil rights act. Not only have you wasted tax payers money to strip civil rights away from a group of Iowans but you will be wasting taxpayers money in court to defend this action clearly taken in malice.I have read the public comments both for the committee in the house and in the senate. I would highly recommend congress members reject this bill as Iowans of all stripes and political leanings are against this bill overwhelmingly. It would be wise not to earn the ire of the very same Iowans that put you all in office. The same Iowans that you all are ignoring as they tell you to stop.
02-26-2025
Gretchen Corcoran []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I urge you all to strongly oppose removing civil rights from transgender Iowans. I used to be proud to be born and raised in Iowa, and chose to return here after completing grad school because it was a great place to grow up, while also believing in personal freedoms. Our state motto is "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain," but this bill is designed to hurt and humiliate and harm, as well as remove currently held liberties and rights. It is not the job of legislators to enforce their bigotry on the citizens of Iowa. My Jewish religion teaches that we are all "b'tzelem Elohim," created in the divine image of God, which includes trans people like me. Banning people from talking about trans people will not erase us. We have always existed, as historical documents attest, and we aren't going anywhere. We deserve to have the same rights as every other Iowan. Do not roll back history and encourage discrimination. Vote against HF 583.
02-26-2025
Randall Kinney [None]
CON
Please stop piling on to an already marginalized groupjust let people be who they are and how they are. All of us are of value, and none of us gets to decide otherwise.
02-26-2025
Ray Calef []
CON
I'm in favor of this bill because I don't believe in adults playing make believe. I'm also not a misogynist, the democrats are.
02-26-2025
Josephine O'Donnell []
CON
This bill is a travesty. Transgender Iowans deserve the same rights as all of us. This bill will allow anyone to discriminate against transgender people or people they perceive as transgender. The Republicans pushing this forward claim it's to protect the rights of women and girls... right. Republicans' policies have done more to harm and put women and girls in danger than any one transgender person. Seriously, vote no on this heinous attack on the rights of transgender Iowans.
02-26-2025
Joan M Demmer []
CON
This is a hateful law that most Iowans oppose. It is a travesty and must be voted down.Iowa should be better than this. The GOP and Heritage Foundation are using Iowa as a Beta test for the rest of the nation.I stand against this discrimination!!!!!!!
02-26-2025
Carissa Phan []
CON
This bill, like many other antiLGBTQ+ bills pushed by the legislature, only creates harm and fear instead of good. This bill is not a party issue but a human rights issue. Trans people make up about 1.6% of U.S. adults and 0.22% of Iowans. However, 1.7% of the population is born intersex, which is more likely than someone being trans. This bill simply erases the existence of trans people and is a violation of international human rights law. Iowa has a high retention rate for people leaving the state, and it is because of hateful bills like this. These bills scream "You are not welcome here" unless you are cisgender and white. Written on the Iowa flag is "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." However, this bill removes basic human rights from trans people and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, including the right to exist. Additionally, the bill states that "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal." As I am sure you know, Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) legalized racial segregation under the logic of "separate but equal," and this decision was eventually deemed unconstitutional. There is clearly a harmful repeat in history that you are choosing to ignore.Trans people do not want this bill. Members of the LGBTQ+ community do not want this bill. Cisgender people do not want this bill. Your constituents do not want this bill. Your purpose as a legislator is to hear and respect the needs of all constituents, including those who did not vote for you or those who do not share your beliefs. As a student, I do not want to continue my higher education in Iowa. I do not want to live in Iowa, and it is because of hateful bills like these that push numerous people out of the state. Rather than focusing on targeting an already historically marginalized community, let's focus on issues that Iowans have been asking you to solve for years: affordable housing, healthcare, and improving the education system. Vote NO on HF583 for the good of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Keegan Walpole []
CON
Removing the civil rights of a marginalized group goes drastically against our state motto. Transgender Iowans deserve to have their rights protected by our institutions the same as everyone else
02-26-2025
Terra Siegert [Na]
CON
02-26-2025
Harry Edwards-Kuehnle [IMHCA]
CON
Good morning my fellow Iowans,My name is Harry EdwardsKuehnle (pronouns he/him/his). For the sake of my dignity and as a credit to your intelligence I request we all honor my preferred name and pronouns.I am here with the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association to advocate for the mental health field and the clients we serve. I am a Licensed Master's Level Social Worker and have been providing mental health counseling to children and adults for the past two years. I recently passed my LISW exam and hope to be granted my independent license in the near future. I am here today to speak on HF 583 not only as a licensed clinician, but as an impacted Iowan and to urge you to reject HF 583.I have great fear, on behalf of my clients as well as myself, regarding the possible passage of HF 583. I am concerned about the costs this bill will create for my clients. HF 583 will impact many of my clients' emotional, mental, and financial wellbeing. The costs will be high, emotionally and financially. Licensed Social Workers know that an increase in stressors often creates a need for a higher level of care. As we can see by the demonstrations this week HF 583 is already causing a great deal of distress, and will undoubtedly create further harm if it passes. Every therapy appointment, medication management appointment, and hospital stay costs hard working Iowans. When our citizens and neighbors suffer, the strain increases on our already bleeding mental health system, and ends up costing the taxpayers more. I have many fears associated with HF 583. I fear I can no longer trust a state I love. I fear I can no longer accurately judge the character of my fellow Iowans. I fear for my safety. I fear for the safety and security of my wife and my home. My biggest fear is that if HF 583 passes, my family will have to move out of the state we love in order to maintain our safety. I thank you for your time and urge you to reject HF 583.
02-26-2025
Wendy Hintermeister [Personal Growth]
CON
02-26-2025
Patsy Flogel []
CON
You cannot legislate away people who live and work and pay taxes in the state of Iowa. This bill to take away the civil rights of transgender Iowans is beyond cruel.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Enough! Why in this day and age are we worried about how someone identifies and why in the world is a government body worried about it and trying to take hateful action? You don't have to understand all you have to do is be a respectful enough person to allow them to live their life how they see fit. Just leave trans people the hell alone and maybe focus on the actual problems this state has of which there are many!
02-26-2025
Cathy McDermott []
CON
I believe all people have the right to be protected from active discrimination/harassment no matter their differences. And prohibiting any mention of sexual orientation in educational settings may make it difficult to address issues that come up in the students home environment or even on TV.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Rivers [None]
CON
Please Oppose this dangerous legislation! Removing civil rights protections from our citizens is not what Iowans want or need! Our Trans community members deserve better and are a vital part of our communities. There are 7,100 Trans people living in Iowa of our 3.24 million population. Why are we focusing on discriminating against .002% of our population instead of the issues Iowans care about? Please get to work on our water quality, food insecurity, education quality, cancer rates, housing market, farmer protections, and natural resource protections. THIS IS WHAT IOWANS ELECTED YOU FOR, not to attack the rights of the most vulnerable community members.
02-26-2025
Adriana []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill, based on legal precedent in our state and my faith. Iowa has been at the forefront of every historic shift toward expanding rights for our citizenry, from codifying interracial marriage 100 years before the country, to allowing gay marriage before the Supreme Court upheld the states' decision. Statistically, LGBTQ citizens are much less likely to commit sex crimes than their hetero counterparts. This legislation is fear based and illconsidered. For as long as there have been homo sapiens and thus people as we know, trans people have donned clothes to fight in wars, become privateers, gone to college, and served their country in disguise. History is replete with these stories of courage. Our New Testament has only two commandments: love God and treat your neighbor as you would like to be treated. One in ten trans people commits suicide. I implore you, don't marginalize an already atrisk group of Americans. It's not Iowan.
02-26-2025
Emily [ Phippen]
CON
Iowa House File 583 raises serious constitutional concerns, including potential violations of the Supremacy Clause, the First and Fourteenth Amendments, and the Commerce Clause. If enacted, it is highly likely to face legal challenges, potentially costing taxpayers significant resources in litigation. Lawmakers should reconsider HF 583 to ensure it aligns with the U.S. Constitution and respects the rights and protections afforded to all citizens. The bill infringes on federally protected rights, such as those enshrined in the Civil Rights Act and other statutes, therefore it would be unconstitutional. The bill discriminates against a particular demographictherefore it could face legal challenges as violating equal protection under the law.
02-26-2025
Mickey Rottinghaus []
CON
It is my belief that God made every human being. God did not make a mistake when differences among us humans become apparent.This bill would serve to assert trans people are not REALLY people, so they don't "deserve" to experience the same civil rights as the rest of us. They don't HAVE the right to choose how to live, how to seek safety and their own idea of liberty. This is inherently inhumane, and it's certainly not Christlike.Please vote "NO" on this overreaction to how a small proportion of our population choose to express themselves and live their lives.
02-26-2025
Julie Juett [None ]
CON
Every single citizen of Iowa should be able to feel safe and have legally protected rights. Because a person identifies as transgender does not mean that they should not have their human rights protected.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I moved out of Iowa because of legislation like this. To attack such a marginalized group of people whose existence does nothing to harm you, its pathetic.
02-26-2025
Kelly Larson [None]
CON
I am gravely concerned about this rollback of civil rights. I have a law degree and previously served for 22 years as a human rights director. I advocated for adding gender identity to civil rights laws because I witnessed first hand the stories from individuals who were harassed or denied employment based on gender identity. I have heard some say that state civil rights protections are unnecessary because federal or state constitutions would protect people. This is not entirely accurate such protections would only apply in circumstances involving government employment or housing and would not extend to private employers or housing providers. Similarly, reliance on the Supreme Court's decision interpreting Title VII as providing protection is inadequate. Cases are often distinguishable on the facts or later limited as Justices change or as Congress amends statutes. In addition, Title VII is enforced by the EEOC, an organization that is now subject to an Executive Order that seems to instruct the commission not to pursue such cases. Even if pursued, the EEOC is overextended and the longer cases sit, the more difficult evidence gathering becomes. This is one of the reasons that we have state and local laws in place to ensure more timely investigation and enforcement. I urge you not to take us backwards in our efforts to ensure that people are treated with dignity and respect and that life altering decisions related to housing and employment are made based on relevant criteria (skills, ability to pay rent, etc.) rather than prejudice.
02-26-2025
Gianna Rossetti []
CON
Please do not pass HF 583. Taking rights away from transgender people is not one of the important issues we are facing right now. Focus on law to improve our childrens safety and economy, not stripping the few liberties queer people hold away. Taking civil rights away is never the answer, as the past has proven time and time again.You know this is not the right thing to do.
02-26-2025
Terri Gordy [Self ]
CON
My husband and I are the parents of a 34yearold transgender daughter who lives and works in Iowa City, where we alsolive. I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HF 583, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions.Our daughter is a human being who deserves all the rights that any human being deserves. She pays taxes. She is a productive citizen. She graduated from an Iowacommunity college. She is a writer and a musician and has a full life with her family and friends.To think that our hardworking, happy daughter may no longer have antidiscrimination protections concerning where she works and lives makes us angry and sad. In addition to not being able to choose where she works and lives, she may be discriminated againstwhen she applies for a loan, furthers her education, or applies for public accommodations if her rights as a human being are stripped away. We are scared for her.Thanks for reading. We hope we can count on your support for transgender Iowans and your vote against HF 583 or any other legislation that would harm them.
02-26-2025
Em Cariglino []
CON
Sex marker changes on government documents have been an ordinary part of government record keeping for longer than I've been alive, and somehow, in that period, western civilization has survived (and even flourished!) without an intervention of the sort HF 583 proposes. Similarly, "gender identity" being a protected class did not cause the firmament to collapse, or the ontology of biological sex to sublimate into a murky dog. The material effect of both of these parts of the status quo has been that transsexuals have been able to participate in civil society with minimal additional friction compared with everybody else. It is hard to believe that Iowa is worse off for this being the case, but not to imagine the reputational and material damage this state will endure should this bill pass into law. One day, we will all look back on this period of history with shame and contempt. It will not be because the state has been too generous in granting rights to its citizens, but too stingy.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Leave trans people alone! Trans people have always existed, and their presence in society doesnt harm you in any way. Stop this cruel bill that will allow trans people to be legally ostracized and discriminated against! Yall act like playground bullies with nothing better to do than pick on people who already face so many struggles.
02-26-2025
david Mixon [United Methodist Minister ]
CON
It is my belief that all people are children of God. Transsexual people do not ask to be born with the burden of not being able to express themselves as they wish because their bodies do not match their feelings of self. I think it is immoral to force someone to conform to the expectations of people who do not understand or have the empathy to realize the hardships of people who were born into the wrong body. Please do not ban transsexual people from our states equal rights laws. They do need protection from bias , ignorance and discrimination
02-26-2025
Gabriel Wells []
CON
I am staunchly opposed to this legislation. The removal of rights from ANY group is appalling. Never in our countrys or worlds history have things gone well for any group singled out for a removal of rights. This legislation helps no one, will cost an extreme amount of tax payer funds to codify and then fight countless legal challenges, and is the antithesis of the state motto our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Also to bring up other states that dont provide trans, nonbinary or noncis gender human explicit rights as justification for this law is lazy and nonsense. We should be better. Do all those states have special laws about protecting corn and soybean farmers (i.e. ethanol subsidies and requirements)? Nope. So we should probably remove those benefits as well then if we want to be consistent and not hypocritical.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Every day, students in public schools across the state of Iowa have the opportunity to participate in the pledge of allegiance. They hear the words, One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." By erasing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, HSB 583 is a direct attack on liberty and justice. It is a direct attack on Iowan and American values. I ask each representative to reflect on whether or not they truly believe in "liberty and justice for all."
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Na]
CON
Everyone matters! All deserve equal rights!
02-26-2025
Keith Soko [One Human Family QCA]
CON
Vote no on this legislation that would take away civil rights of trans persons. This is a FoxNews culture war issue that should not be an issue. Let trans people live their lives with discussion with their family, friends, doctors, counselors, etc. This bill is bad science and policy masquerading as some public safety issue. Bad science, bad religion, bad legislation. Iowa republicans need to get a backbone and stop copying other far right legislation. Trans people are some of the most vulnerable in our society. Dont bully them with this legislation. Get off of these gender issues and help Iowans with real issues!
02-26-2025
Tamara Kelly [None]
CON
This bill is the wrong choice for Iowa and Iowans. It is moving Iowa in the wrong direction, and promoted by hypocrites.
02-26-2025
Alyssa Schwarz []
CON
I vehemently oppose this bill. It is a violation of human Rights. It is unconstitutional, this is a blatant violation of the 14th amendment of the federal Constitution. This bill is discriminatory, unjust and a Gross misuse of the State legislation's time.
02-26-2025
Samm Schwarz []
CON
It is imperative that HF583 is rejected.We as a collective have become so consumed with this narrative that people who are transgender or are part of the LGBTQIA+ community are boogeymen out to ruin our children and destroy our families. It is honest to God fearmongering at its finest and based upon this bill and people's reactions, it is working all too well. We forget that "these people" are people just like any other people, that they are our friends, our neighbors, our coworkers, and part of our community. That these are the same people who would stop to help us if they saw us stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire, just as we would with them because that is supposed to be the Iowa waythat is the image that we promote when we say we are "Iowa nice."Because this bill is not "Iowa nice." This bill is hate bundled into neat type that is intended to disguise itself as being "fair" and "equal" when really it is only foul and anything but fair and equal. This bill is the beginning of a slippery slope. We have seen this before in other countries where hatred takes root in the government, where they chip away little by little at civil rights and people don't speak out until it's too late.At a time like this, I think it is important to remember these lines from the poem by Pastor Martin Niemoeller:Then they came for the JewsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a JewThen they came for meAnd there was no one leftTo speak out for me
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
TRIP RIUTCEL [ Citizen]
CON
SF418 stripp Trans Gender Right from Iowa civil rights law is not only a legal issue it is a moral one. The direct consequences of this law would disenfranchise an entire group of people because the GOP and Kim Reynolds have passed bad laws last year and now are trying to pass an even worse law to make the previous ones OK. Vote NO!Let me share the indirect impact of this type of legislation:My grandkid refused to even look at a college or school in Iowa and chose to go out of state. Why? My grandkid saw firsthand how Iowa treats transi people in everyday life. I do not expect my grandkid to ever return to Iowa. There you go: Iowa brain drain. Trip Riutcel
02-26-2025
Thomas McIntyre [Citizen ]
CON
Just please stop doing this. Your predecessors tried (and for a long and shameful time succeeded) in depriving Americans of their rights and human dignity simply because they were other. Please dont join their cult of cruelty by condoning, in state law, the bullying of children, their families and their health care providers.
02-26-2025
Lisa Hannon [self]
CON
What is the big deal about transgender people, or as my 92yearold mother asks,"Why do Republicans care so much about what's in other people's pants?"? I used to work out in a gym where a transgender woman used the ladies shower room, and it didn't bother me. It's regular men I'm afraid of, including one I met when I clerked in the Iowa Legislature.Leave transgender people and their civil rights alone!
02-26-2025
Erin Owen []
CON
It saddens me that some Iowa lawmakers want to take away the legal protections of a minority group that already experiences challenges in daily life. A person who identifies with a gender other than their sex deserves dignity, respect and equal protection under Iowa's laws.This bill would set Iowa back years. The existence of this bill shows the need for gender identity protection. It shows fear and ignorance.Protecting trans Iowans is the moral thing to do. End consideration of this bill.
02-26-2025
Mickala Anderson [None]
CON
There is no good reason for this bill other than for hate. No ones civil rights should be removed. No one should be told what gender they identify with. Science tells us there is more than just male and female, yet our hateful government once again wants to ignore science and facts and make laws based instead on feelings and their own personal beliefs. I am a lifelong Iowan and this is just one more bill moving us in the wrong direction
02-26-2025
Nick Oswald [Queer Iowan]
CON
How is this going to lower food or drug prices or do any ACTUAL good in our state????This is yet again another attempt to erase trans people from existence. We need to stop right radical right from pushing their hatred disguised as religious beliefs upon all of us. Please vote no on this disgusting bill!
02-26-2025
Robert R Tierney [NA]
CON
This is a cruel bill and will result in people dying. Shame on you for even considering this.
02-26-2025
Shalome Musignac Jordan [N/A]
CON
Reject this harmful bill taking away civil rights already existent in our state. Vote No.
02-26-2025
Harmony []
CON
This is a blatant attack on our trans community members. These attacks on civil rights go against the core values of our state."Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain"
02-26-2025
Isabelle Renfield [Person]
CON
Discrimination against other humans is something that people have fought against in this nation en masse historically 3 times now. If you want to be the powder keg that finally leads to civil war that destroys all of us by all means keep punching down on transgender people. This is sickening that you would even put this into a bill.
02-26-2025
Oge Nnadi []
CON
Please do NOT remove "gender identity" from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.Many members of my church (First Unitarian) are transgender, and I don't want them to be abused by unscrupulous businesses because of this change.Please vote NO.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [United Methodist Church ]
CON
As a United Methodist I believe in the basic human rights and sacred worth of all people. I support equal rights, liberties and protection for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. I remain committed to speak out against discrimination, coercion, violence, unjust treatment and social stigmas.
02-26-2025
Hannah Ringsdorf [None]
CON
Im saddened by this bill and the ruthless attack on trans individuals. Trans people should be seen, heard and shouldnt have their civil rights threatened. I strongly oppose this bill and feel that it has no benefit to Iowans.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Kaiser [Myself]
CON
This is discrimination against a person's gender expression and has no negative impact on other people.
02-26-2025
Brittany Brooke Crow []
CON
Let's make this abundantly clear: you are planning to take away the rights of Iowans. Many of our neighbors will be denied housing. Many of our neighbors will be denied employment or fired for simply being who they are. People will be denied credit services, educational opportunities, and basic decency because you are obsessed over who uses which bathroom. This doesn't just affect trans people: if you are a woman and you present "too masculine" according to another's standards of what a "woman" should look like? A landlord will now have the right to refuse to rent to you. If you are a man and like to wear long hair and occasionally throw on eyeliner? An employer will now have the right to fire or refuse to hire you. This bill is immoral.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Tammera Lowe [Iowa Conference United Methodist Church]
CON
I have always been a proud Iowan, shaped by the strong Midwestern values of fairness, kindness, and respect for all. I believe deeply in equality and basic human rights, and I am writing to express my grave concerns about House File 583. This bill threatens to strip civil rights protections from Iowans, including people I care about deeply.Everyone deserves the right to live in peace, free from discrimination, and treated with dignity. Gender identity protections are not special privilegesthey are fundamental rights that ensure all Iowans are treated equally under the law. No one is taking away anyone else's rights by ensuring these protections remain in place. But removing them would take rights away from our fellow citizens, creating unnecessary harm and division in our communities.I urge you to stand on the right side of history and protect gender identity in our states civil rights laws. Please reject HF583 and uphold the values of fairness and equality that make Iowa a great place to live.Thank you for your time and service to our state. I sincerely hope you will choose to protect all Iowans.Sincerely,Tammera Lowe
02-26-2025
David Epperson []
CON
The fact you've let this bill get this far despite the massive pushback from your constituents shows how out of touch members of the Iowa legislature have become. Look at the comments on this bill and it's previous iterations. Or for that matter, open the door to the meeting room and see the hundreds of people packed into the capital to protest this bill. We don't want this.Protect the rights of all Iowans. Do not allow this bill to proceed.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
My name is Maddie and I am a medical student at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and the proud sibling of a beloved transgender individual. I am reaching out because I am deeply concerned about HF 583 not just for the transgender community, but for the broader implications it has on all Iowans, including cisgender women. My sibling, like so many transgender individuals, simply wants to live a life of dignity, safety, and respect. They have faced challenges that most of us will never have to endurenavigating healthcare barriers, social stigma, and the constant fear of discrimination. The protections that exist under the Iowa Civil Rights Act have been a vital safeguard against this kind of harm. Stripping these protections away sends a clear message: that my sibling, and people like them, do not deserve the same rights as others.Beyond transgender Iowans, this bill also weakens protections for all people, including cisgender women. By legally defining sex as strictly biological and immutable at birth, this bill could have unintended consequences for intersex individuals, gendernonconforming women, and even medical protections that women rely on. As a future physician, I have dedicated my career to evidencebased medicine and public health, and from a medical standpoint, this bill is both harmful and unsupported by science. Medically, sex is more complex than just male or femaleconditions like androgen insensitivity syndrome or intersex variations challenge the idea of a strict binary. Gender identity, which this bill seeks to erase from legal protections, is widely recognized in medicine and psychology as a real and significant part of human identity. Additionally, we know from overwhelming research that policies restricting gender identity protections increase rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among transgender individuals. The Trevor Project and American Medical Association report that when transgender youth lose legal protections, their risk of attempting suicide significantly increases.Beyond the harm to transgender people, this bill creates legal and medical confusion. Could this affect medical records and insurance coverage for conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or hormone therapies? Could it undermine protections against sex discrimination in healthcare, making it harder for all women to access necessary medical care? Additionally, cisgender women who dont conform to traditional gender norms may find themselves wrongly questioned or denied access to spaces. Intersex individuals could face increased medical and legal challenges, and businesses, schools, and hospitals may struggle with compliance, facing lawsuits over conflicting definitions of sex and gender.As a future doctor, my role is to do no harm. I urge this legislature to do the same. HF 583 does real harmto transgender Iowans, to families like mine, and to the broader legal and medical landscape of our state. Transgender people deserve dignity, rights, and legal protections, just like everyone else. I urge you to reject HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to you as a plea to please stop SF418 from advancing. This bill hurts not only the lives of transgender Iowans, but also the lives of cisgender Iowans who do not neatly fit inside gender stereotypes. How much time will be wasted policing the bodies of individuals, trying to decide if their bodies are "masculine" or "feminine" enough for their identities to be valid?I have lived in Iowa for 30 years, a state I love, a state I have invested in by paying taxes and supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations in any way I can... but this state does not love my friends and family. It does not love the people I care about. Instead of giving back more to my community, I'm stuck spending my time asking you to stop cruel bills like this one.I keep hearing the argument "We don't think this change will cause discrimination against trans people." It's already happening. Discrimination against trans people is already being experienced in our communities. According to a 2024 UCLA School of Law Williams Institute study, 82% of transgender individuals have faced discrimination in the workplace. From another study published in 2020 from the International Journal of Transgender health, transgender individuals are four times less likely to own a home. One in ten LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced discrimination in banking or financial services. This bill will only make things worse.Please stop this harmful bill from passing. Iowa deserves better than this. Just look at the public comments, this is NOT what Iowans want.
02-26-2025
Brianne Arends []
CON
Please vote against discrimination!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [F]
CON
02-26-2025
Jenna Madison []
CON
This bill goes against everything that is good and right in the world. To codify discrimination in this way goes against what we should stand for as Iowans and fellow humans. For better or worse, we are all in the world together and there are hard things that happen every day. This does not have to be one of those hard things. We all have inherent dignity and worth. Every human being is different in some way and everyone belongs. The world is big enough for all of us. Vote no on this bill because you are a human who understands that we our better for our diversity, vote no because you are a parent and know no greater love than the love you have for your child (who may be queer or may someday come to you voicing who they are is different than you first thought), vote no because you know better if you listen to your soul, vote no to save lives. This is not one of your bathroom bills or about sports, this bill is about trying to erode equality and no one should be for that. Vote no to make sure all have a place here in our state.
02-26-2025
Kara Kelso [The Slow Down Coffee Co. ]
CON
I do NOT support this bill stripping trans folx of their civil rights. Trans rights are human rights! This government continuously wants less oversight why choose this issue to crack down on? Let people mind their own business and our government mind theirs! I have never met a trans person who is remotely as hateful as this administration.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
ALL Iowans deserve to be treated fairly without fear of discrimination! Discriminating against any Iowa resident for not neatly fitting into a little checked box is wrong and should never be condoned.
02-26-2025
Lily Vajgrt []
CON
02-26-2025
Cathy Brimeyer []
CON
Please vote NO for this bill. Hate and discrimination do NOT belong in Iowa. Hate and discrimination is NOT "Iowa Nice". If you follow Jesus, may I remind you that Jesus hung out and sat with all the people society claimed were outcasts and marginalized. If you follow Jesus, you are to love your neighbors as yourself. Choice to love people: who do not love like you do, who do not worship like you do, who do not talk like you do, who do not look like you do. Follow the Golden Rule when you're casting your vote.
02-26-2025
Gina Hausknecht []
CON
Please turn down the temperature, vote against this bill, and find better ways to address the ideological divides that have been stirred up around gender identity. The existence of gender nonconforming people harms no one. All Iowans should receive civil right protections. Stripping away protections for one class of Iowans invites discrimination and worse. There is no tension between the rights of any of the groups with currently protected status; women's rights are not strengthened by the legal erasure of trans, nonbinary, and intersex people.As Rep. Windschitl pointed out last year, it is not a wise choice to interfere with established civil rights code whether you agree with all of it or not" and that taking that protection away would then be an opportunity to discriminate against one of those protected classes. I urge consideration and restraint before you unleash the consequences of this bill. While there's been a concerted effort to whip up panic in this moment, the results of this vote will be farreaching, longlasting, and devastating for individuals and families, and a tremendous step backward for this state.The essence of a pluralistic, democratic society is we live at peace with each other; we have civil rights code to remind each other of this. The support for this bill is characterized by misunderstanding and denial. Gender nonconforming people are real humans just like you and, like you, they deserve access to education, healthcare, employment, selfdetermination, and safety. We have all kinds of needs that you should be addressing that speak to our quality of life and ability to thrive. Generating stereotypes, fear, and rage against our friends, neighbors, and family members is not one of them.
02-26-2025
Sarah Copple [Self]
CON
I am urging you to vote NO on HSB 242 because it is an attack on fundamental civil rights. Targeting and stripping away protections from a specific group of people is not only discriminatoryit is unconstitutional. Laws exist to protect the vulnerable, not to single them out for harm. This bill sends a clear message that certain Iowans are unworthy of the same rights and protections as everyone else, and that is simply unacceptable.This is personal for me. My child is an Iowan who will be directly affected if this bill passes. As a mother, I want my child to thrive here, in the state we call home. But instead, my child is already making plans to leave Iowaforced out by fear and a government that is failing to protect them. Is that the future we want? To push our young people away? To create a state where discrimination is written into law?Lets be clear: this bill does not protect anyone. It does not improve Iowa. It does not uphold the values of fairness, freedom, or dignity. Instead, it undermines the principles this nation was built on and weakens our communities.I urge you to stand on the right side of history. Vote NO on HSB 242 and affirm that all Iowans deserve equal protection under the law.
02-26-2025
Cathy Wetzel []
CON
This bill will cause pain and fear to our transgender community. We might as well make all transgender people wear a yellow star. This is shameful and anyone who supports it is misinformed, ignorant and cruel.Cathy Wetzel
02-26-2025
Cara Kayse [n/a]
CON
I vehemently oppose HF583 and any legislation that will remove civil rights protections. HF583 is offensive, scientifically inaccurate, and overwhelmingly unsupported (see attached). It is a discriminatory bill that would further marginalize and endanger an already oppressed group of people people who are loved and deserve the same rights to life, liberty, and happiness as anyone else. This bill would create barriers to securing basic human needs, and it runs squarely against the values espoused in Iowa's motto "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." Stop the attack on Iowans, vote on the right side of history, and oppose The Iowa Civil Rights Removal Act.
Attachment
02-26-2025
Clara Quinn [NA]
CON
I wish to appeal to your humanity and the long history Iowa has of supporting individual rights and freedoms. This bill, and any bill that curtails the rights of Iowans, goes heavily against the historical freedoms Iowans have found to expect, and frankly, we deserve. I had a child at a young age, nearly died and lost a planned child in birth, worked as a registered nurse and opened a small business in the thick of COVID. I am no stranger to loss, pain, so many things. But Im also not easily deterred. Do the right thing. Otherwise Ill be here for your job. Period.
02-26-2025
Amanda Schrag []
CON
This bill is cruel and dangerous. It relies on faulty science and malicious intent, putting Iowans in harm's way. Threatening one group's civil rights puts all our civil rights at risk. Vote "no" on this bill.
02-26-2025
Ian Schwarz []
CON
I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill. Not only is this bill blatantly immoral, cruel, and just simply unfair. This bill is an attack against transgender people. That is it's only purpose; to weaponize our Civil Rights bill against an already marginalized community. This is the start of an avalanche of similar bills that will strip basic human rights from more and more people and it has nothing to do with sports as some claim; there is no mention of sports or athletics in the wording of this bill. The complete 180 in this state from being the 3rd to legalize gay marriage just 16 years ago to now targeting transgender people is disgusting, and does not represent the views of most Iowans, only a loud minority. A state with "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain" on our flag should not allow legislation like this to pass.
02-26-2025
Erin London []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
I DO NOT SUPPORT this bill of hatred against my fellow human beings!!!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Timothy Copple [Parent]
CON
As a father, I am asking you to vote NO on Bill HF 583. This legislation is not just a political decision it is a direct attack on the fundamental rights of real people, including my child. No government should have the power to strip away civil rights from a specific group, and yet, that is exactly what this bill would do. It is unfair, unconstitutional, and morally wrong.My child is an Iowan, born and raised here. I have spent my life teaching them that hard work, integrity, and kindness matterthat Iowa is a place where they can build a future. But now, they are questioning whether they even have a future here. They are preparing to leave the only home theyve ever known, not because of opportunity elsewhere, but because they no longer feel safe in their own state.Is that what we want for Iowa? To drive out our children, our future leaders, innovators, and community members? To tell them they are not welcome? This bill does not protect anyone; it only causes harm. It weakens our communities, divides our state, and sets a dangerous precedent that no groups rights are truly secure.I am asking you, not just as a legislator, but as a fellow Iowan, to do what is right. Stand for fairness, equality, and the basic dignity of every person. Vote NO on Bill HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful and unnecessary. Please represent all Iowans equally and without discrimination.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I strongly opposed this bill. Trans rights are human rights.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Let Freedom Ring!!! Freedom to be who you are without fear. STOP political bullying!! Our representative seem to spend more time hurting than helping.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
What's going on here? Why in the world would you even consider voting to take away Iowan's civil rights whenmost Americans favor laws toprotecttrans people from discrimination?Please vote no onthis antidemocratic bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill is unconstitutional. All genders are human and all humans deserve rights.
02-26-2025
Julia Franklin []
CON
I am a member of the arts community and work daily to advocate for creative professionals with intersecting identities. I urge you to vote no on this bill. This legislation will directly impact and harm the creative community and our clients and patrons. Gender identity protections must remain in place so everyone can earn a living, secure housing and funding, and pursue educational opportunities. Creative professionals and our many small businesses are an essential part of the economy, and without these protections, our state will see a loss of talent. You have a choice to make. Choose inclusion and compassion. Allow creativity, innovation, and small business to thrive and flourish so that we can make Iowa an enviable place to live, work, and play.
02-26-2025
Karen Pitcher Christiansen []
CON
Please say NO to this bill and stop the attacks on transgender people. Given our state's current #2 ranking in cancer cases, and our declining public schools, amongst other things...there really isn't any further priority than stripping some of the most vulnerable people in our state their civil protections? Please, vote NO.
02-26-2025
Necole Long []
CON
02-26-2025
Rachel Rupert [Indigo River & Co. ]
CON
I intensely oppose this change to the Iowa civil rights act. This is a violent & disgusting use of government time & resources. EVERY Iowan deserves to be protected BY LAW. You are actively defying your constituents wishes by pushing forward with this legislation. Your job is to protect our communities, do your job. Trans Iowans have always existed & they will always exist.
02-26-2025
Rita Carter []
CON
I oppose HF583 because I care about the rights of all people. This bill purposely removes the current civil rights of transgender Iowans from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and that is just plain wrong! Iowa would be the first state to take currently held rights away from people. This is unacceptable, just plain mean and wrong. My life experiences are not the same as yours. Our work as humans is to try to hear and understand each of our experiences. That is how we learn and grow. I do not have the same understandings that I did when I was younger and none of us should. Politicians should not have the power to define who I am or who you are as one of only two literal biblical categories. My faith employs scripture but also tradition, experience and reason. LGBTQ people are real and important and deserve their civil rights and the freedom to define themselves!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
As a healthcare provider who serves transgender Iowans in the VA Health Care system I would like to advocate for those who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions and express my concerns of this bill encouraging discrimination over sex stereotypes. All Iowans should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living, provide for themselves and their families, and present to our clinics and hospitals without fear of discrimination or harassment. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute.
02-26-2025
Courtney Hemwood []
CON
Please keep the protections in place for trans people. Every single person deserves to be treated as a human and not discriminated against based on identity.
02-26-2025
Alicia Terry []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583. This bill brings shame to Iowa, the place I once took so much pride in for how kind, welcoming and loving it was. I want to clarify that I am a white, straight, female, and a born and raised Iowan and this bill does NOT represent me or my beliefs. Do not use "protecting" me as an excuse for causing hurt and harm to transgender Iowans through this bill. That is not what this bill does and I do not want this. Iowa does not want this. I am saddened by the cruelty of this bill and fear for transgender Iowansthey do not deserve to be treated this way. Where has the humanity gone? I can't wrap my head around how you can treat people like this when I was raised here too, on the belief of "treat others as you would want to be treated." We must stand by our state's motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." Every Iowan deserves equal rights and to have those rights maintained. Every. Iowan. Because when one of us hurts, we all hurt.I ask you to not punish something you do not understand, but instead remove hate from your heart and lead with compassion, empathy, openness and love. Please reject HF 583.
02-26-2025
Lisa Brunie []
CON
Protect Iowa civil rights and vote no
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
All Iowans deserve freedom from discrimination. Relaxing the laws will allow government condoned discrimination, likely leading to many forms of harassment.
02-26-2025
Emily Bush [none]
CON
Don't legislate hate. Focus on things that help everyday Iowans struggling to pay the bills. This is not it.
02-26-2025
Ryan McLerran [none]
CON
I implore that the house reject this bill. We do not need to strip civil rights from any group, even if it's politically convenient.
02-26-2025
Sydni A Hilton [Iowa Constituent ]
CON
I am appalled that we are once again fighting for basic human rights. I find the following lines particularly egregious: The term equal does not mean same or identical. 26g. Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal. I was under the impression that the Supreme Court ruled against this sentiment in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka in 1954. The assertions made in this document are not scientifically accurate. Myself and my family have only benefited from the transgender and gender nonconforming individuals in our lives. I want them to be safe and valued in Iowa. They deserve basic human rights.This bill also fails to address how intersex people are meant to exist in Iowa. It only states that they will be protected, but what will their birth certificates say? That is not clarified in this document. PLEASE listen to the overwhelming opposition to this bill. We the people did not ask for this and we do not want this.
02-26-2025
Lincoln Fletcher []
CON
This kind of blatantly discriminatory legislation is as far from the stated ideals of our country as its possible to be. If it becomes law, then the state of Iowa will no longer deserve to be known as anything but a regressive backwater.
02-26-2025
Matt Fettkether []
CON
This bill is shameful and does not reflect Iowa values
02-26-2025
Scott M Fedler []
CON
Absolutely no to this exclusionary bill punching down on the least of Us.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
If Iowas government truly cared about protecting women, they wouldnt champion men credibly accused of abuse (none of whom, as far as I can tell, are trans). Theyd also restore womens bodily autonomyespecially since pregnant women face a higher risk of being murdered by their partners, a problem bound to worsen now that abortion is no longer an option in this state. Will Iowa Republicans take these concrete actions to protect women? Of course not. Their priority is not, and has never been, womens safety; instead, theyre focused on attacking a vulnerable group of people who simply want to live their lives. You dont need to understand what makes someone trans to know they deserve the same rights as everyone else. This bill is needlessly and breathtakingly cruel. Shame on anyone who supports it. Peoples blood will be on your hands.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My name is Melissa Clow and I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HSB242, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. I have personal knowledge of someone who has transitioned and it was the best thing to happen to them. I am sure you are aware that this does not happen over night. It is done with careful thought and long consideration with doctors and therapists and is NOT taken lightly. The benefits from transition have included confidence, happiness and finding their place as a beneficial member of society. The discrimination included in this bill is full of misunderstanding, hate, discrimination and fear. It is your job to protect every constituent in Iowa and to protect their right to live their life how they want to. Support love and respect for others.Please vote against HSB242.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Kristi Storey [Self]
CON
This bill is abolutely ridiculous and all of you that think this is okay are ridiculous. What does someone's gender have to do with you? Why do you care? Are you scared of those different than you? Do you feel only white, straight, males are acceptable in this life? So you are a white supremecist? You sure are acting like a white supremecist when you think bills such as this are okay.You are to be representing all of Iowa, ALL OF IOWA. Yet you aren't if you vote yes on this bill.You know this bill is WRONG. YOU KNOW IT IS WRONG.VOTE NO.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Marginalized groups need protection. Transgender folks are indeed marginalized and descriminated against.Rather than remove protection for a marginalized group from the Iowa civil rights bill, I hope common sense can be used to include groups that are marginalized as they are identified.The back tracking I hear from supporters of removing trans folks from protections is they support everyone no matter who they are, yet see trans folks as infringing upon their own rights.History does not reflect well on those who create exclusionary legislation such as this. Each of the marginalized groups in the civil rights bill faced similar descrimination. History has judged folks against the other classes harshly. I encourage my fellow republicans to remember we are the party of Lincoln, and remember the strong civil rights defenses we historicaly led in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Jessica Malott [None]
CON
This bill is shameful. Its a slippery slope, not to mention unconstitutional. Do not let this pass.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Vote no on this dangerous, rushed, fear based legislation.
02-26-2025
Madison Atwood []
CON
I have friends, colleagues, and students who are transgenderbrilliant, creative, compassionate people with so much to offer this world. And I have sat with them, listened to them, and seen them strugglenot because of who they are, but because of how they are treated. It breaks my heart to see people I care about hurting, to know that they are exhausted just from trying to exist in a world that so often refuses to understand them.This proposed bill doesnt solve a problemit creates one. It makes life harder for people who are already vulnerable. I have watched as talented, promising young people have had to spend their energy fighting just to be safe, rather than focusing on their futures, their dreams, and their contributions to our communities. Some have already left our state, not because they wanted to, but because they felt they had no choice. And I have to askwhat kind of place do we want this to be? Do we want to be a state that drives people away, or one that welcomes and protects all its citizens?What actual harm has ever happened because of a trans person existing authentically in our communities? Those stories dont exist. There is no justifiable reason to erase gender identity from Civil Rights protections. But there are so many reasons to ensure that transgender people are safe, respected, and valued. They are not harming anyone by existing. They are part of our communities, and we need them here. I urge you to reject this harmful legislation. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Kyla Cox []
CON
Scientific facts show humans are not only male or female. Factually, biologically, whether you like it or not, humans are born on a spectrum of gender. All humans deserve to be treated humanely, respectfully, equitably.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Every human being deserves civil rights. Shame on those who are trying to take them away from others. God sees you and he will judge you accordingly. It is truly sad how many people in power right now lack empathy and common decency.
02-26-2025
Reagan Osborne [Greene Bean Coffee]
CON
This legislation is abhorrent. Do you want your and Iowas legacy to be that of discrimination? My family and I chose Iowa because of the rights given to ALL people. We had no previous connections to this state and moved here because we experienced the best of Iowas small towns on RAGBRAI. Since moving here, three more of our family members have followed us from other states and purchased property. Fifteen years ago we started a business that is now a mainstay of our local historic downtown in Jefferson. I was personally instrumental in bringing Main Street Iowa to Jefferson, which this year is in the final for the national Great American Main Street award. I should be proud, but I am not. I feel deep shame. Now, I live in a state that leads the nation in only ONE thing hate.Now, we are seriously considering leaving the state not just because of this one bill, but because of the increasing onslaught of hate coming from and condoned by YOU. You are the people who should be championing our rights, yet you are actively seeking to take them away. My family has dedicated our lives and livelihoods to Iowa and you are stomping on everything weve worked for. Vote NO on this and ALL legislation that seeks to promote discrimination. You are actively harming this state and its people. You should be ashamed of what youre doing.Reagan OsborneGreene Bean Coffee
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this legislation. All Iowans should have access to and deserve to have the same universal human rights and protections no matter their race, religion, creed, gender, wealth, political party, or sexual orientation and identity. This law is focused on hatred and division two things this state does not need.
02-26-2025
Ellen J Hallin []
CON
This bill goes to the heart of some of the core values that Iowans hold dear basic fairness extended to all human beings and respect for all regardless of race, gender, and class. It is not a reflection of who we are. It's a grave mistake to pass this bill.
02-26-2025
Jennifer Smith [N/A]
CON
I oppose Bill HF 583 because it is a direct attack on the rights and dignity of transgender Iowans, stripping them of critical protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This bill would not only deny individuals the ability to update gender markers on their birth certificates, but it would also erase transgender people from legal recognition, forcing many to live with inaccurate and harmful documentation. Furthermore, it weakens protections for intersex and cisgender individuals who do not conform to rigid gender norms, putting more Iowans at risk of discrimination. Everyone deserves to be recognized, protected, and treated with respect under the law, and HF 583 undermines these fundamental principles of equality and human dignity.
02-26-2025
Alexandra Fell [N/A]
CON
Stripping away of rights from Iowa citizens is in absolute opposition to our states constitution. This is a horrifying overreach of power that flies in the face of what Iowa stands for. But, it continues to be clear that this legislature and governor do not care about their constituents, nor have they ever. They do not care about the amazing human beings they are harming, clearly, no instead they will do anything to consolidate their power and wealth. They are actively making life worse for people who want nothing more than to live their lives and contribute to their communities. This is not the Iowa I grew up in and I refuse to believe this is the will of the people who surround me. I do not believe Iowans will stand for this, and I fervently believe that when the history books are written, this group of leaders who are hellbent on ruining peoples lives will go down as some of most morally corrupt individuals allowed into our state capitol. Our state flag should be flown upside down in protest.
02-26-2025
Caitlin Reed [None]
CON
As a medical professional and private citizen, I strongly oppose removing gender identify from the Iowa civil rights code. I believe this affects health and wellness in multiple ways, most importantly This bill strips gender identity as a protected class in cases of employment, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit/lending. A law that allows for no recourse for discrimination will result in upstream actions that have impacts on the physical and mental health of real people. The removal of civil rights from a population that already suffers from disparate health outcomes is a public health concern.
02-26-2025
Maryanne Nelson []
CON
Please vote no on this bill. It would allow discrimination in housing, employment and more for a small group of people already facing discrimination and difficulty. Trans people are not a threat, but they are often threatened by others.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Discrimination is hate. Period. Why would you make it legal?
02-26-2025
Allison Simpson []
CON
Iowa has always been a leader in civil rights. We were among the first to desegregate schools, legalize samesex marriage, and protect marginalized communities from discrimination. Now, we face a shameful turning point: becoming the first state in the nation to strip a protected classtransgender Iowansfrom the Civil Rights Act.Our state motto is clear: Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. But rights are not rights if they can be taken away. Transgender Iowans are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members. They deserve the same protections as every other Iowanthe right to live, work, and exist without fear of discrimination.This is not about fairness; its about cruelty. It sends a message that transgender Iowans are less worthy of dignity and respect. It emboldens discrimination in housing, employment, and public spaces. It tells an already vulnerable population that they do not belong.History will remember this moment. Will we stand by our values of equality and justice, or will we lead the nation in rolling back civil rights? Iowa should not be the state that chooses discrimination over dignity. We must reject this attack on our neighbors and reaffirm that in Iowa, all people deserve protection under the law.
02-26-2025
Tamara Baker [None]
CON
Dear Members of the Iowa Legislature,I am writing to express my strong opposition to HSB 242, the proposed Iowa Civil Rights Removal Act. This bill would strip transgender Iowans of critical protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, undermine their ability to update their gender markers on birth certificates, and erase their identities from the law.As a state that values equality and the protection of basic human rights, this bill is a harmful step backward. It not only discriminates against transgender individuals, but it also weakens protections for intersex and cisgender Iowans who do not conform to rigid, outdated gender norms.Iowa should be a place where all people, regardless of their gender identity or expression, are treated with dignity and respect. This bill would actively harm the most vulnerable members of our community and create a hostile environment for people simply trying to live as their true selves.I urge you to reject this harmful bill and stand with ALL Iowans, regardless of gender identity or expression. We must protect the rights of all our citizens, not erase or diminish them.Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue.Sincerely,Tamara Baker528 2nd AveManilla, IA 51454
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
There is absolutely no reason that we should be trying to strip away rights from a marginalized group. Especially when those rights have already been given. Our rights as Iowans and Americans are not subject to political whims. Passing this law is not only bad for trans Iowans it is bad for all Americans. It sets a terrible precedent that our rights can be stripped away at any minute.
02-26-2025
Susan Burton []
CON
Please do not allow this hateful, unconstitutional bill to advance. People should be working to ensure and *maintain* the rights of all Iowans, not to rip away the human rights of an already marginalized minority group. There are so many other, much more pressing issues, that deserve the full attention of the state legislature. Maintaining gender identity protections in Iowa's civil rights law in no way erases or inhibits my womanhood or my rights, nor does it infringe on yours.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Karen Maass []
CON
I am strongly against this bill. American civil rights are nonnegotiable. Legislators, presidents and whoever, cannot sit and discuss taking any one of them away. All men and women are created equal , no matter who you are , whether you are white or Black, Asian, Indian, no matter the color of your skin, no matter if youre gay, straight or something in between. It doesnt matter if you are Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jew or chose not to believe. None of this matters. It doesnt matter what country you came from, what your last name is what matters is were Americans. That gives each one of us certain civil rights and no one can take those rights away. Our veterans fought for those rights. It is not up to some state legislature to take them away. If you take them away from one group or person, who says you won't take more. Just like the lawsuit against 504 that Iowa entered into. It is like you are erasing people. Also as a woman I do not feel at all compromised or unsafe around ANY LGBTQ+ entering a bathroom I'm using or playing any sport. I have though, felt very threatened by a cisgender male who does not know where his boundaries lie. It would help before this is voted on that legislators be educated in and have experience around individuals that are various genders including Transgenders before judgements are made. Do not lightly decide on this without the education. My church provided education for the congregation. What I found out is that everyone of us knew someone who was of various genders. Someone we held dear to our hearts. Do not hurt family members and friends that we love.
02-26-2025
Sarah Schroeder []
CON
I dont even know how to articulate all my thoughts on how opposed I am to this bill. Do we really want to be the first state in US history to remove rights from a protected class? To make a huge step backwards? Trans people deserve all the rights and protections that everyone else has. Trans people exist. Period. Trying to legislate them away will only result in pain and suffering. And are we pretending intersex people just dont exist? They comprise 2% of the population and do not conform to the narrow definitions of male and female as defined in this bill. What happens to them?Its ridiculous that this bill exists. Its ridiculous that you are trying to ERASE an entire section of our population. End it now and vote no.
02-26-2025
Tracey Jackson [Self]
CON
Terrible and hateful!
02-26-2025
Randy Gehl []
CON
All Iowans deserve to be protected from discrimination.
02-26-2025
Megan McDonough []
CON
NO NO NO!!! Every single person deserves civil rights. Vote to maintain these rights for everyone!
02-26-2025
Katie [Suierveld]
CON
Former Iowa resident and currently employed in Iowa and I am just absolutely baffled and disappointed that this bill even exists in the first place. Why are we wasting time and tax payer money on taking away the civil rights of a marginalized group that only accounts for less than .3% of the Iowa population? What is this going to improve? There are literally thousands of iowans facing food scarcity among countless other ACTUAL problems and this is what you choose to spend your time on? How about you focus on something that actually improves the lives of Iowa citizens instead of taking rights away from people who just want to live their life freely and authentically. Do better. Care about people for once.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Sally []
CON
Hi, my name is sally. I am less than one semester away from becoming a nurse here in Iowa. The way that this state is moving is scaring me. My brother is trans. At first when I learned that he wasn't my sister anymore, I cried. In my own feelings, I felt like I lost my sister. But the next time I saw him, I realized, that this is the same person I have always known. He is just going by a different name. And it doesn't really affect me at all, but he feels a million times better. I will never understand why people want to discriminate against transgender. Please tell me how this affects you personally? It doesn't. This bill is actively discriminating against the people who live in Iowa. This bill is erasing American history. I cannot imagine that erasing history is something that anyone would feel good about. If you vote for this bill, you are a perfect example of history repeating itself. and frankly, that is something to be embarrassed about. If you vote for this bill, I hope you feel good about being the reason that people need to flea Iowa. Please think of us as human, and not your idea of what you want your personal life to look like. You control your own personal life. And people should have the right to do the same for themselves.
02-26-2025
Holly Schnieders []
CON
I do not support this. People are people.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This is an antiLGBTQIA bill through and through and makes me embarrassed to be born and raised in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Taresa David [Na]
CON
02-26-2025
Jane Runneals [N/A]
CON
Please do NOT pass this bill! Our trans friends go through discrimination on a regular basis for being their authentic selves. Many already suffer with anxiety and depression, something this bill will only worsen. Trans rights are human rights. Remember the Golden Rule! How would you want to be treated if you or a friend or loved one was trans?Vote to protect some of the most vulnerable in our state. Vote NO to HF 583.
02-26-2025
Melinda Pradarelli [None]
CON
As an Iowa native, I am proud to stand with so many people who vehemently oppose this bill. This legislation unfairly targets the marginalized and removes basic civil rights. This legislation does not reflect a state that leads with care and compassion and provides protection to those who need it and deserve it. I chose to stay in Iowa to raise my children and proudly found a business and provide employment and economic growth at whatever level I could. Sadly this type of legislation is one of the reasons that many people will choose not to stay in Iowa and will not even look at it for school or work or vacation. Even living here now feels like I am giving tacit agreement to egregious legislation like this. How did a bill stripping Transgender Iowans of their civil rights get this far along in the process. Its unfathomable. I echo others who said this is an embarrassment to our state.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Ask yourself What if this was MY child? How would I vote? How would I want people to treat MY child?
02-26-2025
Katie Zoske [Ames Counseling ]
CON
As a mental health therapist, I believe that to strip away human rights for a very specific population is just targeting. I've heard the argument that somehow this law puts women's rights in danger, which I disagree. However, if you feel that way, there is no reason that laws specifically for the concerns that you have (about competitive sports or whatever the concern areas are) shouldn't be drafted. Do NOT stop protecting them entirely as a class. There is no reason that anyone should be able to be discriminated against for employment, housing, and other basic access points to a normal standard of living. You should want all Iowans to be able to work, provide for themselves, have a safe home, and contribute to society like everyone else. Thank you for taking the time to review my comments.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Kelly Leidigh [NA]
CON
02-26-2025
Monica Basile []
CON
Please REJECT this bill. It is appalling that you are considering repealing civil rights protections for our citizens. No one should have to worry about being fired or denied housing or educational opportunities because of their gender identity. This bill would endanger so many people I love. All human beings including our transgender friends, neighbors, family, and coworkers should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. Even the fact that is being considered is causing harm. The argument that this legislation is about women's rights is a thinly veiled cover for discrimination. Denying civil rights to one group is an attack on the rights of everyone. Do the right thing for Iowans and vote NO.
02-26-2025
Will Bamber [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
Iowa has a long legacy of protecting citizens' rights. This would be the first time in Iowa history that the state removed rights and legalized discrimination. This bill is heinous, evil, and uniowan. DO NOT PASS THIS BILL!!!
02-26-2025
Elaine Rockwell []
CON
TransIowans have existed, always existed, and deserve to be wherever they choose to live, including in Iowa. Everyone, every Iowan, deserves to be treated fairly without fear of discrimination.
02-26-2025
Patrick Carroll []
CON
I am ashamed that this bill is coming out of my state. Point A narrows this to determining male or female as verifiable at birth, This is a disaster to those in our population who don't display those characteristics physically, but would manifest those gender characteristics upon puberty. Iowa has been proud to be at the front of giving our citizens rights that we prize and have put a lot of effort into maintaining. We were among the first states to legalize gay marriage, which has been nothing but a positive for our economy. We had the first woman judge. We have been at the forefront of granting people rights. In contrast to our storied past, I am disgusted that our republican led legislation is trying to make us one of the first states to remove rights from citizens. We have so many issues in our state that need addressed that are being put to the side in favor of legislation such as this that will actively harm the citizens of our state. How wonderful would it be if our legislation could try to work on bills that actually affect every Iowan, such as investigating why we have such high rates of cancer, working on our historically poor infrastructure ao it might be better suited to support the much heavier farm equipment than we have had in years past. We have polluted waterways that are only getting worse due to agricultural runoff. Instead our government has taken time out of their days to write and enact legislation that doesn't make anyone safer, doesn't make anyone better, doesn't make our state viewed better in comparison to other states, and further, would actively drive away those doctors that our governor is trying to court back into our state. What doctor would move to a state where the medical knowledge they know to be biologically correct, knowledge that they rely upon in order to make correct diagnoses, they would be legally unable to recognize? How does driving away the very people (health professionals that would be indirectly affected by this) we need to care for our very much aging population help our state? I should perhaps remind you that a larger portion of those people who voted Republicans in live in rural areas with lowered access to Healthcare alreadydo you envision your political careers to be long lasting when you are making various efforts to ensure that the vast majority of your repeat voter base will be dying quicker due to lowered access of care? Revoking rights on one group doesn't stop with just transgender individuals. Historically, this is usually the first of many minority groups to be disenfranchised. I fear for my own rights. I fear for the rights of those you are probably trying to keep enshrined. We are Americans. We fought hard for our rights, and we like to claim our citizens are equalbut this emphatically enforces that our representatives feel that it os more correct to create classes of citizens, enshrining one as permanently lower on the hierarchy of "who do we deem a valid person?"I fear that this is the first step in giving ourselves over to authoritarian rule. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Wayne Kinney [Retired]
CON
02-26-2025
Wes Mullins [Capital City Pride]
CON
This bill harms countless trans and nonbinary Iowans. On behalf of the 130,000 guests of Capital City Pride held each year in the shadow of the Capitol Building, we call upon all legislators to vote against this measure.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
I urge the Iowa government to protect gender identity rights and not repeal vital protections. Every individual, regardless of gender identity, deserves to live with dignity, safety, and respect. Repealing these protections would not only harm transgender and nonbinary Iowans but also send a damaging message that some people are less deserving of equal treatment under the law. Our state should stand as a beacon of acceptance and inclusion for all people, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated. Lets continue to move forward together, embracing equality for everyone, regardless of their gender identity.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
As a life long citizen of Iowa I plead that this bill not be passed. How can you take away rights from these citizens? People who live their life as others do, not hurting anyone. Those who vote to put others in harms way should be ashamed of themselves. And know we will remember.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please do not send Iowa into the past by making us the first state to remove a protected class from our civil rights act. Transgender Iowans deserve the same rights and protections of every other Iowan.
02-26-2025
Monique Shore [Individual]
CON
Transgender people must be protected under Iowa law. They are over four times more likely than cisgender people to experience violent victimization, including rape, sexual assault, and aggravated or simple assault. In addition, households with a transgender person have higher rates of property victimization than cisgender households. (see https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/press/ncvstranspressrelease/).The idea that you would choose to REMOVE THE RIGHTS of a group of Iowans is appalling. It is wrong. ALL people should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. To pass this legislation is to take our state backwards.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I say this as a Christian woman, the hatred towards this group is unfounded. Trans and intersex people arent hurting anyone by simply existing (even us women this bill claims to be protecting) and this will only take away American citizens rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I see a lot of Republicans claiming this is about protecting womens sports, but that argument seems ridiculous to me. The study I found said 0.6% of the population identifies as transgender and only 38.5% of those identify as trans women. Protecting everyones basic rights to housing and employment should be higher priority than denying 0.2% of the population from maybe wanting to play sports.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
HF583. By passing this bill you are opening for more bullying to a specific group and not providing protection. There really is no reason for this bill but wasting time and taking away from more serious issues this state needs to address. Easier to pass this bill then saving food programs for children, work on providing daycare at a reasonable cost, provide appropriate funding to public schools and quit giving more money to private schools that can discriminate and dont have to show how the funds are being used. Iowa use to be known for compassion, kindness and both sides working together. Might not always agree but knew that they would look at the best way to compromise. Now our legislation just flexes their muscles and looks to see how many people they can hurt with no concern for citizens. Please think before you vote what this bill HF583 will really do. How many will it hurt and how many bullies are you giving protection to harm others.
02-26-2025
Alan Ross [None]
CON
Discrimination and inevitably hatred and violence. I am far more concerned about the shameless inhumanity that we wreak upon others.
02-26-2025
George Kranovich []
CON
Laura Belin's words on this sick bill deserve to be seen here."Its sad to see how poorly the House speaker and Judiciary chair grasp basic concepts about liberty. Civil rights laws are a backstop against the tyranny of the majority. Those laws exist to stop the dominant group from trampling on the rights of a disfavored group.Discriminatory laws can be very popular. A Gallup survey from 1958 found that 94 percent of Americans disapproved of interracial marriage. The first nationwide Gallup poll to show majority approval of marriage between Blacks and whites was taken in 1997three decades after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down state bans on interracial marriage as a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment.Speaking of which, Holts bill raises serious practical and constitutional problemswhich he does not acknowledge.Max Mowitz of One Iowa observed that Holts bill would wreak havoc on the lives of transgender people across the state, upending their ability to do basic things like rent an apartment or get a credit card. Without gender identity in the civil rights code, it would be legal to fire, evict, or deny education or services to someone solely for being transgender or perceived to be transgender.Holt claims none of that will happen. He told the Des Moines Register, We do not believe that the transgender community will lose any protections. He told Bardwell, We have removed gender identity as a protected class, but transgender individuals will continue to have the same rights as you and I sitting here, Oliver. Theyre protected by the United States Constitution, theyre protected by the Bill of Rights, theyre protected by the Iowa Constitution. He repeated that talking point in his latest newsletter.Its false.Federal law doesnt prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity.Lohse, a House Republican who is an attorney as well as a Judiciary Committee member, explained his reasons for opposing House Study Bill 242 in a February 22 Facebook post. Without mentioning Holt by name, he refuted the bill sponsors points. It has been stated that in these areas, federal law is available to provide the same protections. If that is correct, then why even bother removing it from Iowa code? However, this is not accurate. Employment discrimination (which may or may not include wage discrimination) is afforded only through caselaw. In housing, discrimination is prohibited only through an administrative rule of the federal Fair Housing Act and is a rule that is not likely to continue on the books. I cannot, in good conscience, vote to take away existing statutory rights from Iowans currently holding them, especially when it means the prospect of being denied basic human needs.Although Holt has repeatedly claimed the U.S. Supreme Courts Bostock decision from 2020 will protect transgender people from discrimination in employment or housing, that case had nothing to do with housing. We dont even know whether the U.S. Supreme Court would still follow the Bostock majoritys reasoning in employment lawsaying that bans on sex discrimination also protect LGBTQ employeesbecause the case was decided before Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died.The Iowa Supreme Court already rejected the logic of Bostock in a 2022 case known as Vroegh, the ACLUs McRoberts pointed out in a February 22 interview. In that case, the justices followed an Iowa Supreme Court ruling from 1983 (Sommers v. Iowa Civil Rights Commission), which held that the states prohibition on sex discrimination was enacted to place women on an equal footing with men in the workplace, not to forbid discrimination against transgender people.Because our sex discrimination statute is so narrow, McRoberts told me, the gender identity provision goes well beyond protecting transgender people, even though that was its original intent in 2007. That code language means Iowa employers cant discriminate based on outward expression or stereotypes. A man cant be fired because his voice is too high. A woman cant be sidelined because her employer feels she looks too masculine.Along the same lines, Mowitz warned that Holts bill would weaken protections for intersex and cisgender Iowans who fail to meet the rigid gender assumptions contained within.Holt seems to understand his bill would enable discrimination at work or in public accommodations. He wrote in his latest newsletter that if gender identity is removed from the civil rights code, transgender individuals will not be able to file legal complaints against a business that believes sex is binary and acts accordingly, and will not have the ability to file legal complaints against an employer who does not affirm the validity of an individuals selfproclaimed Gender Identity.At least two aspects of House Study Bill 242 could be challenged under the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.Rejecting gender identity on birth certificatesLohse and Wichtendahl both suggested to me that the bills birth certificate provisions raise equal protection problems. Lohse noted that if someone had gender reassignment and changed their birth certificate in a different state to reflect their gender identity, Iowa would have to recognize that document under the U.S. Constitutions Full Faith and Credit Clause. Yet a transgender Iowan could not obtain a new birth certificate with the same information.Since part of the bill indicates that birth certificates are presumed correct if issued at or near the time of birth, Wichtendahl wondered whether Iowa would recognize updated birth certificates trans people might have received in other states."
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Citizen of Iowa]
CON
I am writing to share my opposition to removing Civil Rights protections for transgender individuals.Our country was founded on the principle of equal rights for all, and taking away civil protections from a group of people who face discrimination is against those values. A persons gender identity should not prevent them from accessing credit or housing or from gaining employment.Not only do these bills violate our countrys values, they violate my Christian beliefs. The Bible teaches us to treat others as we would want to be treated, and that what we do to the least among us, we do to Christ himself.I am asking all legislators to be brave and stand up for the least among us. Please vote no on these bills.
02-26-2025
Adrienne Rule []
CON
These are not the Iowa nice values we pride ourselves to have. Im ashamed of this state and its governmental leadership.
02-26-2025
Craig Shore [individual]
CON
I am a native Iowan, a leader in the Grinnell UMC, and the proud father of a transgender daughter. I am appalled at the idea of removing gender identiy from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Please vote AGAINST this hurtful legislation.
02-26-2025
Nick Bergus []
CON
If this bill becomes law, Iowa will be the first state in the nation to remove civil rights protections, making more Iowans open to discrimination. This bill does nothing to protect women and girls. Instead, it would erase transgender Iowans from public life, pushing Iowa back decades of progress and leveling deep harm.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I oppose this bill and do not think it has Iowans best interests in mind. Someones sex and gender identity is their own private information and should not concern the government.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
We should protect all people from discrimination. We are not taking away anyone's rights by doing so.
02-26-2025
Tara Velez []
CON
Please vote no. There are other policy changes that could address issues with trans women in sports and prisons (issues identified by the Republican Party). The trans community needs support and protection. Removing a protected class is bullying at a systemic/policy level. Show iowa youth their lives matter and our state cares about them. Please take time to seek data and consider other policy changes to address any concerns that may exist in Iowa. Trans lives matter. Human rights matter. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
02-26-2025
Candice Clark Stevens []
CON
As a biological matter it is incorrect that there are only two sexes. There are about 30 different intersex examples. It is profane and hateful not to acknowledge a person's sex, which may differ from or be more complicated than the sex assigned at birth based on a preliminary and incomplete assessment of external physical characteristics. Transgender people have human dignity. We should do everything we can to preserve that dignity and honor their rights. Doing so is a risk to no one. Failing to do so diminishes us as a people, and may very well embolden those who would actively harm transgender persons.
02-26-2025
Karli Moellers []
CON
Every Iowan deserves to exist.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a Christian, I oppose this bill. As a human, who cares about other people, I oppose this bill. As an Iowan, I oppose this bill. We already face a shortage of doctors in our state; becoming a state that denies the science of gender will make that harder. This will make it harder to attract business and workers to the state. This will make Iowa even more of a joke of a state: we have corn and we hate trans people! Most of all, this bill is cruel just for the sake of being cruel. People identifying how they want does no harm to you or your family.
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Patricia Burger [Retired ICCSD ]
CON
Discrimination is disgraceful. Everyone deserves dignity, human rights, and privacy.
02-26-2025
Theresa Oliver [N/a]
CON
I am against this bill as it will specifically allows discrimination against a specific class of people. We should never be removing civil rights, rather expanding them. If you vote for this is we will ensure we vote you out.
02-26-2025
Jenna smith [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [frana]
CON
Vote NO for HSB 242 which would take away civil rights for Iowan Trans community. Show some compassion and put people over party!
02-26-2025
Kathy Goedeken []
CON
Vote NO to HF 583 that takes away the rights of people who are transgender. They should have the ability to live their lives without persecution and go to school, work and rent and purchase housing. They are not a threat to others in the community and only want to be free to live their lives free of harassment and discrimination.
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Jessica Rockafellow []
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, a primary care physician, and cisgender woman, I strongly oppose House File 583, as it poses a significant threat to civil rights, undermines equality, and opens the door to widespread discrimination. Removing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act strips away essential protections for transgender individuals, leaving them vulnerable to discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public spaces. This not only violates basic human rights but also sets a dangerous precedent of selectively deciding whose rights deserve legal recognition.Moreover, the bills attempt to narrowly define biological sex disregards medical and scientific understanding of gender, creating unnecessary legal confusion and potential challenges that would burden the courts wasting taxpayer money on litigation instead of addressing real issues facing Iowans. At a time when inclusivity and respect should be guiding principles, enacting legislation that actively marginalizes an already vulnerable population is not just harmful but morally indefensible.Iowa has a proud tradition of standing for fairness and equality. Stripping away rights doesnt protect anyone it only weakens our communities. I urge lawmakers to reject HF 583 and instead focus on policies that promote dignity, respect, and equal protection for all citizens.
02-26-2025
Alison Filley []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This legislation is cruel and unfair. All Iowans, including those who are transgender, should be treated equally by the laws of our state. They deserve basic antidiscrimination protections. Trans people are part of our community and our state and they should be treated like everyone else.
02-26-2025
Sue Gerth []
CON
Do not pass this bill! You are removing rights from people for absolutely no reason except fear. Shame on all of you.
02-26-2025
Louise Kames [Clarke University]
CON
Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.Mark 12:21
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Bills like this make me feel unsafe as a woman, and I blame this toxic environment for my trans daughters suicide last year. I plan to leave Iowa as soon as I can.You may not care if I leave or that my daughter is dead. But I in the top 15% of income earners in this state. When I leave, youll lose my tax dollars, and local businesses will lose my patronage.Since income is linked to education, and educated people are less likely to be transphobic, Im sure youll lose many other high income earners, and you wont be able to replace them.
02-26-2025
Mary Peterson [Na]
CON
No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities. Risking one groups civil rights is a risk to everyones civil rights. The mere proposal of such a bill increases depression, fear, and suicidal ideation in an already vulnerable trans population.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Alexandria Conway [N/A]
CON
After reading, Ive come to the opinion that it is unnecessary and a waste of time and resources for the state legislature to continue entertaining the idea of passing this bill. Removing gender identity as a protected class will only do harm to trans people and their families. This bill is hateful only for the reason of being hateful. Small minded people tend to hate what they do not understand instead of educating themselves and choosing to live life in kindness to all.Trans people have always existed and they will continue to exist, forever. I do believe in the separation of church and state, but I must address any Christians that support this bill Jesus Christ loves all in his flock addicts, criminals, poor people, and anyone else who is viewed in a hateful light by those with more privilege. What would Jesus do? He would protect those who need protecting including people whose gender identity does not match the sex listed on their birth certificate.
02-26-2025
Lisa Waul [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Kimberly Stone []
CON
Every person, no matter the genelder deserves to have equal rights, opportunities, and Healthcare. A gender does not determine a person's worth.
02-26-2025
Laura Nelson []
CON
This bill is discriminatory and should not be passed. Transgender people belong in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Keri Weston Stoll [None]
CON
Please do not contribute to the growing hate in our country. Please do not approve the removal of civil rights protections already granted to these fellow human beings. Even if you dont agree with or understand another humans decision, that doesnt give you the right to treat them poorly or to make it more difficult for them to live. Another persons gender has no bearing and does no harm to your own life. Trans people are people and deserve the same basic rights and respect as anyone else.
02-26-2025
Erek Sittig []
CON
I'm against HF 583. If you know any trans people, you know they aren't the terror supporters of this bill make them out to be. The trans people I know are no danger to women in bathrooms. That's a fear that should be corrected, not coddled. You have the power to stop this, so stop it.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Ross []
CON
HF 583 poses significant threats to the rights and wellbeing of transgender and intersex individuals in Iowa. By revoking established civil rights protections, the bill not only undermines the dignity and safety of these communities but also sets a dangerous precedent for the erosion of civil rights more broadly. It is crucial to consider the profound human rights implications of such legislation.This legislation creates space for legal discrimination of trans and intersex people. By removing gender identity from the list of protected classes, the bill would permit discrimination against transgender individuals, allowing them to be denied jobs, housing, and services based solely on their gender identity. Gender roles, clothing, and behaviors change across time and cultures.Pink was considered a boys color in the early 1900s, and heels were originally for men in European history.If gender were truly binary and fixed, it wouldnt shift across cultures and time periods.The belief that gender is binary is a cultural and historical construct, not a scientific fact. Biology, history, neuroscience, and cultural diversity all point to gender existing on a spectrum.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Daniel Chou [Self]
CON
Jesus said, He who is without sin, can cast the first stone. and your legislation is NOT in keeping with Jesus's teachings, and you should be ashamed of yourselves. I strongly oppose this bill.
02-26-2025
Kelly Wells Sittig [N/A]
CON
Thank you for your service to Iowans and for hearing my concerns. Please vote no on HF 583. This bill terrifies me on behalf of my trans family members who are very worried about their future in our state and who feel like their fellow Iowans don't want them here. It is unfair and disruptive to people trying to make a life here in Iowa. Additionally, as a woman, I am confused and angered by the argument that this bill "protects" women. I have never seen any evidence that women are unsafe in bathrooms or in sports, nor have I felt unsafe myself. I DO see evidence that my transgender friends and family members experience discrimination all the time. This bill itself sends a discriminatory message to trans people. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Tabitha Simms-Quigley []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. I'm a Christian, and am embarrassed to see so many "Christians" using the Bible to create hateful legislation. We're not a Christian nation, but Galatians 3:28 states "there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." Those using the Bible to legislate are shoving the one from the ninetynine.I am a cishet woman. I did not need anyone to protect me from trans people as a child or now. My brother also did not need protection. Our favorite babysitter for our children is a trans teen. She was amazing before coming out, and continues to be amazing now. It's almost like being trans isn't an issue. Stop with the embarrassing bravado of stripping people of their rights. This will continue to make Iowa a tough place to recruit workers and businesses. Vote no
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Public]
CON
Politians should represent ALL the people..there is no room for ignorance in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Rights are not negotiable.
02-26-2025
Caroline Francis []
CON
I do not support this bill. All Iowans, all Americans and all humans deserve and should be legally provided with equal rights. This bill is discriminatory and rooted in hateful, scientifically inaccurate and damaging misinformation. Passing this would cause direct harm to Iowans. Please don't do this.
02-26-2025
Eleanore Taft [NA]
CON
Historically, Iowa has had moments where we have led the nation in standing up for civil rights. This bill would make us leaders once again, but in the wrong direction, as the first state to actually take away rights, and for what? As a woman, I am deeply offended by legislators saying that this is being done to protect people like me. Taking rights away from someone else does not make me more safe. The bathroom thing is a made up problem and ludicrous on its face. Someone who is intent on violating another person inherently does not care about following rules and laws, so why would a sign on a bathroom door be a deterrent? And are we really meant to believe that a cisgendered man would play some kind of long game, pretending to be trans and putting up with all the discrimination and bullying that this bill seeks to normalize, so he could possibly have a better chance at sports? And do the legislators who are so concerned about the young woman with the volleyball head injury plan on introducing a bill to ban football next? Or do you only think women need to be protected? Stop insulting our intelligence. None of what you are saying makes sense. This bill is clearly designed to make dehumanizing and attacking trans people great again. This does nothing to benefit Iowans, except for a handful of republican legislators seeking to score cheap political points in hopes that we dont notice they are failing to deliver for the people.
02-26-2025
Lara Barrett [Human/Mother/Wife]
CON
I am a tax paying mother of two young childen. I cannot raise them in a state that abolishes civil rights. How do I tell them that their beautiful aunt, graduate of Luther College, award winning choir singer, promoted at her job in a financial institution, is now deemed less deserving of freedom and protection than every other person in this state? Where does it stop? Your job is not to limit the rights of your constituents, but to promote the freedom to live and be contributing members of our societal.If you vote to pass this unconstitutional bill, I hope you realize just how many people you are hurting.If you truly feel that the trans community is not deserving of the same rights as every other human being, please realize that your restaurants/banks/stores/military all have trans members. If you are taking away their rights, you'd better not expect their service. You ar not protecting anything except your ignorance.
02-26-2025
Kevin Oâ??Brien [NA - personal]
CON
Do not take the rights of Iowans away. Iowa is good at its heart. We are a neighborly and caring state. I request elected officials to act in this way.
02-26-2025
Kelly Giesemann [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Harlan. Taylor []
CON
Do not pass this bill This bill will jeopardize the health and lives of transgender children. They are owed the same rights as any of their peers.Why do Iowa legislators make it so difficult for these kids to live here in. Iowa. These kids are just trying to grow up without the difficulties the state is trying to impose Please do not let this bill go through Respectfully Harlan. Taylor
02-26-2025
Alicia []
CON
This bill is harmful and discriminatory. It will hurt Iowans in ways that cannot be measured. All people deserve equal treatment and anything less is immoral.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is an embarrassment to the state of Iowa. The government's job is to protect ALL, and that means ALL, of us in the state of Iowa from discrimination. I would also ask if all of our representatives have personally talked to any transgender people? Have they tried to understand? I want represntations who are knowledgeable and empathetic towards others. However people want to live thier lives is their right. The state of Iowa has always been known to be a place where there are a lot of kind people who value diversity. We have been a progressive state in the past. I would hope that most Iowans want all people to be protected from discrimination.
02-26-2025
Serai []
CON
This bill only serves to harm trans people, there is no obvious benefit to a single part of it. This isnt hidden, isnt even thinly veiled. No attempt was made to hide the fact that it ONLY exists to strip rights away from trans people that literally everyone else has. rights that at the moment of writing we have, that you are taking away. The only thing this accomplishes is fear and more death. More suicides because everyone is afraid to be who they are, afraid to go to work, to leave their house. This will be looming over the heads of so many people if you do this. People who have already lost so much, experienced so much pain for being who they are, who have had to live every day in fear. All this serves is to add to that, a continued push to a cliff. another step you force people to take to a ledge, a punishment for being who we are. a punishment that you have pushed through with no regard for consequences. Faster than i have every seen a bill pushed in my entire lifetime. If this bill passes you have shown people that you are willing to let actual changes, actual good, sit and rot for years, in some cases decades, until it's forgotten, but this, something that exists only to harm people, to cause fear, can be done in a matter of days. You arent leaders, you arent representatives. you are cowards, dictators, bigots, who will do whatever it takes to make yourself happy and comfortable without caring who burns for it. you are showing your constituents, the people you represent, the people who's lives you are responsible for, that not only you do not care for them, you hold them in contempt. you are showing everyone that you COULD do this for things that actually matter, that you COULD help people, that it doesnt take years or decades or lifetimes to make positive change. you are showing them all that instead you are CHOOSING not to. that you have ALWAYS chosen not to. if this passes none of you deserve whatever office you have, because you don't care about the people who's job it is for you to care for, to protect.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Bryanne [None]
CON
I strongly oppose House File 583, as it poses a serious threat to civil rights, undermines equality, and opens the door to widespread discrimination. Removing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act eliminates crucial protections for transgender individuals, leaving them vulnerable to discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. This not only violates fundamental human rights but also sets a dangerous precedent by selectively deciding whose rights deserve legal recognition.Additionally, the bill's attempt to narrowly define biological sex ignores established medical and scientific understanding of gender, creating unnecessary legal confusion and potential challenges that could overwhelm the courts, wasting taxpayer money on litigation instead of addressing pressing issues in Iowa. At a time when inclusivity and respect should be the guiding principles, enacting legislation that actively marginalizes an already vulnerable group is not only harmful but morally indefensible.Iowa has a proud tradition of advocating for fairness and equality. Stripping away rights doesnt protect anyone it only weakens our communities. I urge lawmakers to reject HF 583 and instead focus on policies that promote dignity, respect, and equal protection for all citizens
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I want all Iowans to have rights. No discrimination to anyone.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I oppose HF 583 which erases transgender Iowans rights under the law. This is discrimination and unfair to people who deserve civil rights like any other person. Iowa deserves better than this backward legislation!
02-26-2025
Kirsten Hanrahan [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Amanda Greubel [Private Citizen]
CON
02-26-2025
Jimi Wirth []
CON
Iowa should not condone hatred, and absolutely should not be stripping human beings of their rights. Those of us that are more priveleged should stand up in protection of those who are less priveleged.
02-26-2025
Barb Polglaze [None]
CON
Excerpt from Hearing on Executive Order by Trump. This explains the biology behind gender and gender issue!! How can you determine gender in only two categories. All genders should be recognized based on biology not on Right Wing exclusive values. Judge Reyes: EO 14183 adopts the definitions of a separate executive order called Defending Women from Gender Ideology, Extremism and Restoring biological Truth to the federal government. And that EO states, "sex shall refer to an individual's immutable biological classification as either male or female." And it states that, "It is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female." Do you see that or do you remember that?Jason C. Lynch:l will take the court's word for it.Judge Reyes: You understand, as a matter of biology, it's just incorrect that there are only two sexes, right?Jason C. Lynch: Do I understand that to be incorrect as a biological matter?Judge Reyes: Yes. It is incorrect as a biological matter. You understand that, right?Jason C. Lynch: I don't understand that to be incorrect.Judge Reyes: You understand that not everyone has an xx or an xy chromosome, right?Jason C. Lynch: Honestly, no, I don't.Judge Reyes: It's actually kind of a really important point because this executive order is premised on an assertion that's not biologically correct. There are anywhere near about 30 different intersex examples. So someone who does not have just xx or xy chromosome is not just male or female. They're intersex. And there are over 30 potential different intersex examples. We've got genetic differences. We have people with xxx chromosomes. We have androgen insensitivity, xy genetically, that may have female external sex characteristics and internally have testes. There's a five alpha reductase deficiency that causes changes in testosterone metabolism, xy that may have female external genitalia or ambiguous genitalia.The point being, and I'm happy to have you guys brief this more if you want, but I'm telling you right now that there are people who are neither male or female. And so the premise of the executive order is just incorrect.
02-26-2025
Avery Troester []
CON
This is an awful bill that can only reflect poorly on Iowa and its citizens. Trans rights are human rights. Trans people are a marginalized group who deserve for their rights to be stated explicitly when so many people want to take them away. This bill is unconscionable and should not be passed. I want Iowa to be a better and kinder state. This hateful bill must not be passed.
02-26-2025
Jessie Ryan [None]
CON
I dont have much faith in you as my representatives, but Im asking you to oppose this bill. As a nurse and a mother, there is no need for such hateful legislation that would strip vital rights from a human just because you dont understand them.
02-26-2025
Tyler Jones [None]
CON
Please say no to this immoral bill and continue to care for Iowans. Let people be happy, safe, and protected in the state of Iowa!
02-26-2025
Carrie Schurman []
CON
02-26-2025
Emma Pradarelli [None ]
CON
This bill is filled with hate and vitriol. Have a backbone and vote no to bill HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
As both a medical doctor, I strongly oppose the removal of gender identity from Iowas Civil Rights Code. This change would have profound effects on health and wellbeing. Without legal safeguards against discrimination, individuals will face increased barriers that negatively impact their physical and mental health. Stripping civil rights from a group that already experiences significant health disparities is not just an issue of social justiceit is a serious public health concern.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
This bill accomplishes nothing except discriminate against innocent, nonthreatening people. Please don't pass this!
02-26-2025
Patricia Dooley [Citizen]
CON
02-26-2025
Leah Bender []
CON
02-26-2025
Heather Soseman [None]
CON
Hello My name is Heather Soseman. As a married woman, mother, and responsible citizen I feel it is my obligation to urge you to oppose removing gender identity from the Iowa civil rights code. I believe this affects the health and wellness of all people in multiple ways, most importantly This bill strips gender identity as a protected class in cases of employment, public accommodations, housing, education, and credit/lending. A law that allows for no recourse for discrimination will result in upstream actions that have impacts on the physical and mental health of real people. The removal of civil rights from a population that already suffers from disparate health outcomes is a public health concern.
02-26-2025
Gillian [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Kathryn Hendrix []
CON
Not only is this contrary to constitutional rights. There is no good or justice that comes from being able to lawfully discriminate against a population. This bill is an act of hate.
02-26-2025
Karen Goedeken []
CON
I urge you to vote no on this bill that takes civil rights away from transgender Iowans. They are our children, our friends, our neighbors, our coworkers. They do not deserve to be treated so shamefully. This bill is an attack on lawabiding Iowans. Vote NO!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Hate should never be legislated.Iowa once led the nation in civil rights and the focus on being as hurtful as possible while avoiding the real issues we are facing is beyond disgraceful.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [- Select -]
CON
I oppose this bill. Transgender, intersex and cisgender people are people who need to have the same rights as other people!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is cruel and unnecessary. I can't believe believe we are actively working to take away people's rights.
02-26-2025
Julie Clothier []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Peggy Stover [Self]
CON
HF 583 is a bill that's nothing more than fodder for the republicans to continue diminishing the civil rights for all Iowans. The blatant bigotry that oozes out of this bill is disgusting.What's next? Rolling back the civil rights of the disabled? Women? People of color?Instead of focusing on cultural bigotry, the GOP needs to turn their attention to solving the nursing home crisis, the lack of medical care in rural Iowa, attracting companies to the state and growing Iowa's economy, and funding public education as our ranking has fallen.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [none ]
CON
enough with the culture warrior bit allow folks to live their lives stop fear mongering marginalized people
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Kara Schroeder []
CON
Please show dignity and respect for ALL Iowa citizens by not denying their existence.
02-26-2025
Andrea Frantz []
CON
Like so many other efforts to erase ideas Iowa's GOP legislators do not like (see all book banning efforts as an example), this misguided proposal seeks to erase human rights, and indeed, humans. My question is why? What purpose does this serve? Legislators could be working on bills that actually advance all Iowans on *real* needs. Our water quality is dangerous. Cancer rates are alarming. Food banks need help. We don't have enough nursing homes or mental health services in the state. The list could go on. Instead, somehow removing civil rights of taxpaying Iowans is of paramount concern. It boggles the mind. Trans people are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and students. This bill is about bullying, plain and simple. Vote no.
02-26-2025
McKenzie Kruchten []
CON
There is no reason this bill should exist, it is destructive, ignorant and a complete waste of taxpayers resources.
02-26-2025
Denise Rathman, MSW [National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter]
CON
According to the first line of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, The primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human wellbeing and help meet the basic human needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. The fourth principle of the NASW Code of Ethics is The Code provides ethical standards to which the general public can hold the social work profession accountable.Therefore, the National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter stands firmly OPPOSED to HF 583, the bill that would eliminate civil rights protections based on gender identity.
02-26-2025
Haley Spitzfaden []
CON
I believe in freedom, and the rights of individuals to live a life that feels true for them. Because of that, I am strongly against SF 418, and the other bills being proposed to restrict people's gender identities.Other people living an authentic life does not put me in danger, or restrict my freedom. Laws which get the government involved in my (or my neighbor's) gender identity, however, do.With liberty and justice for all.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
David Pope []
CON
Do NOT pass this bill!!Keep religion out of politics we are not a theocracy!It is incumbent upon the government to affirm our access and right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. For the government to then actually try to remove protections from one group of peoplemy peopleis absolutely, purely hatred, FixmerOraiz said.Also among protestors was retired physician Pauline Miller, who said she had LGBTQ+ patients decades ago that struggled with their identities.We need to celebrate the progress weve made, Miller said. That individuals who are gay, lesbian, trans can say this is who I am, and I can love myself and be a part of a community.
02-26-2025
Julie Rice []
CON
As a parent and aunt of transgender individuals, this bill is unconscionable and damaging for my family members. My son and niece are the gender they were born to be, no law can change that. Stripping their civil rights benefits no one. In addition to my role as a family member, I am a licensed mental health therapist. I have the privilege to have met with and currently support transgender individuals. Removing their civil rights puts their mental health and in some cases, their lives in jeopardy. I have written emails and letters to the governor, representatives and senators imploring them to educate themselves on the science and reality of transgender individuals experience. No one responded. This is a reprehensible bill that serves no one and endangers others. Please consider discarding this bill, educating yourself and stop hate and bigotry. Thank you, Julie Rice, LMHC
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Jessica Kieffer [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill is a travesty. Trans people have the right to exist as people, and the government has no right to interfere so deeply with the personal liberties of its citizens. Why does it matter to the government what gender people identify as? For a party so concerned with the rights of the individual, Republicans sure do seem concerned with controlling the basic elements of a persons right to exist.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This legislation is hateful. Plan and simple. I am a very concerned Iowan.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Jean Swenson [Individual]
CON
This bill needs to be defeated. We NEVER take rights away from people! Please listen to your constituents........."everyday Iowans" don't want this hateful, hatefilled bill, and, as a person of faith, this is contrary to scripture and to human decency. Iowa is better than THIS!Put away the rhetoric about "protecting women." I am a 70year old woman, and I have never had reason to fear a trans person in my life. Do your homework about what it means to be transgender. Don't base your decision on ignorance.Why the big hurry to get this done? Slow down, do your homework, read all these comments and your emails..........you will decide this is a very bad bill for MANY reasons.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The attempt to legalize discrimination is SHAMEFUL. As a lifelong Iowan, discounting thousands of Iowans is not the Iowa I am proud of.Every Iowan deserves the right to live without fear of discrimination!
02-26-2025
Julianne Bartlett []
CON
This is a bill that would harm Iowans and set a dangerous precedent. This bill should not proceed.
02-26-2025
Ginny Davis [Constituent]
CON
How is this bill helping lower the cost of living for Iowans, such as lowering grocery costs, child care cost, energy bills, etc? I personally am facing increased cost of living such as groceries and electricity and gas bills. My property taxes also keep going up. Again, how is this bill lowering my cost of living? How is this bill tackling the rise of cancer in our state? Three years ago my husband was diagnosed with a rare cancerous tumor in his spinal cord. Iowa has the 2nd highest cancer rate in the country. How is this bill helping to lower the cancer rate in this state and helping those fighting cancer with their families?This bill is more about a political agenda than making this state a great place to live, to work and enjoy. Thank you for listening to Iowans' concerns and voting "no" on this bill and focusing on what really matters to Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Myself]
CON
02-26-2025
Dianna Ressler []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
It is unconscionable that Iowa would remove civil rights protection from a group of people. Do not take our state backwards.
02-26-2025
Jo Miller []
CON
Our government should not be bullying some of our most vulnerable community members. Stop wasting time and taxpayer money on demonizing trans people. Its pathetic and cruel. Vote no, and go do some real work to fix real problems Iowans are experiencing.
02-26-2025
James Cyndari [none]
CON
If these protections were not needed, they never would have been created in the first place. Removing existing protections can only been seen as a measure to allow explicit discrimination and harassment. It does not, in any way, seek the greatest good for all. Do not allow fear, hate, and ignorance to triumph.
02-26-2025
Molly A Bochanyin [n/a]
CON
My name is Molly Bochanyin and I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HSB242, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HSB242.
02-26-2025
Matthew Brown []
CON
HF 583 strips rights from Iowa citizens, rights that protect fellow Iowans from discrimination. The bill goes out of its way to target transgender individuals as those whose rights are being denied. These are coworkers, family members, and community contributors across our great state. The proposed bill exists to make their lives worse. The state has bigger problems to solve than isolating a very small and vulnerable community and then making their lives harder through this bill. Nothing in the existing law treats one Iowan differently from another: thats the point of a law protecting citizens against discrimination. Instead, HF 583 deliberately seeks out ways to harm Iowans by removing such protections. Another consequence of the proposed bill is to assume there is a natural and perceptible image of manhood and womanhood. But we all look differentcertainly a result of this proposed bill is to endanger young women in public spaces who do not match whatever the perceiver thinks the image should be. While proponents claim the proposed bill is to protect women from transgender women, the reality is that the bill licenses the surveilling of young people by authority figuresthat is, by authorities obsessed with a young persons genitalia. Lets not put young people at risk this way. Lets let our transgender friends, coworkers, and family members live in peace with us and with the same dignity accorded nontrans people. Surely there are better legislative goals than going out of our way to hurt fellow Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Kristten Buttermore [None]
CON
I am writing to express my strong and unwavering opposition to HF583/SF418 currently being considered by the Iowa legislature. I am adamantly opposed to this legislation. Sexual identity and/or sexual orientation do not, in any capacity, diminish the humanness of individuals. Our government is charged with protecting its citizens, and this includes LGBTQ+ individuals.This bill not only undermines fundamental human rights but also fosters an environment of exclusion and discrimination. Our communities thrive when all individuals feel safe, valued, and supported. By targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, this legislation threatens the wellbeing of our neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones, many of whom already face disproportionate levels of stigma and mental health challenges.Iowa has a proud history of standing up for civil rights and equality. I urge you to reject this harmful legislation and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all Iowans. Let us lead with compassion and uphold the values of equality and justice that our state and nation strive to embody.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Sheryl Payton [Retired]
CON
I have emailed, but not heard back. This is very personal and the bill is a threat to my family. See attached document that I emailed all Iowa Representatives. Not one replied. Are the government officials we elected listening? Dont they work for all Iowans? I am writing to you today to urge you to do your part to keep the Gender Identity Erasure Act (HSB242) from moving forward. This bill is an attack on the civil rights of my son and family and 1,000s of other Iowans. My adult son is transgender and deserves to not be discriminated against. After years of struggling to become who he is and working with several health care professionals and support groups, he is finally doing well, working, and surrounded by supportive family, friends, and church family.Of course, his stress level has increased greatly with the acts of the current administration, and this bill threatens to erase who he is under Iowa law. People and businesses would be allowed to discriminate against him in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodation, education, and credit. It breaks my heart to think of how this will affect the progress he has made. If this law moves forward, I fear what will happen to my son and othersI dont ever want to get another call that he is in a mental ward due to suicidal thoughts, or worse. Can you imagine getting a call like that about one of your loved ones? I dont have to imagine.I remember my father, who was a public school teacher and drama director at Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, having to take special care that black students traveling on choir tours to the South would be safe during the 60s. He and the choir director called ahead to make sure hotels and restaurants would allow those students to stay and eat there. There was one incident where the hotel they were staying at closed and drained the swimming pool after they learned black students were swimming in it with the other students. Unbelievable!Is this what Iowa is coming to? Do you want groups, families, and individuals traveling to and living in our state to face this type of discrimination against transgender individuals? Or perhaps many will just leave or avoid coming to Iowa. How will that affect our states economy?I beg you to please do your part to keep the Gender Identity Erasure Act (HSB242) from moving forward. It is immoral and Iowans do not want it!Thank you for taking time to read my plea.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
1 Equal Protection Clause (14th Amendment) Argument: The Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment guarantees that no state shall "deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." This applies to everyone, including transgender individuals. Supporting Points: Transgender individuals, like all people, are entitled to equal protection under the law. Discrimination based on gender identity violates this fundamental right. Just as racial discrimination or discrimination based on religion is unconstitutional, so too is discrimination based on gender identity. Courts have increasingly recognized that transgender people are entitled to protection under the Equal Protection Clause. Legal cases, such as *Obergefell v. Hodges* (2015), have expanded constitutional protections to groups previously excluded from equal treatment (e.g., samesex couples), showing that the Constitution's principles do evolve to include more individuals under its protections.2. Due Process Clause (14th Amendment) Argument: The Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment prohibits states from depriving any person of "life, liberty, or property, without due process of law." This clause has been used to argue that transgender people have a right to make decisions about their own gender identity, and they should be free from state interference or punishment. Supporting Points: The right to personal autonomy, including the right to determine ones gender identity, is a key aspect of liberty protected under the Constitution. Denying transgender individuals legal recognition of their gender identity or subjecting them to discrimination in areas like healthcare or employment deprives them of their liberty without due process, violating the 14th Amendment. The Supreme Court has recognized personal decisions about family, identity, and health as protected under the concept of "substantive due process" (as seen in *Griswold v. Connecticut* and *Lawrence v. Texas*).3. Freedom of Speech and Expression (1st Amendment) Argument: The 1st Amendment protects the right to free speech and expression, which includes the right of transgender individuals to express their gender identity. Supporting Points: Transgender people have the right to express their gender identity freely, without facing punishment or discrimination from the government. In cases like *Tinker v. Des Moines* (1969), the Supreme Court affirmed that people (including students) can express their identity, so long as it does not cause significant disruption. This applies to transgender individuals' right to express themselves, whether through dress, pronouns, or other genderrelated expressions.4. Precedent from Supreme Court Decisions Argument: The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favour of expanding civil rights protections in various contexts, and transgender individuals should be included in that broader understanding of constitutional rights. Supporting Points: In *Bostock v. Clayton County* (2020), the Supreme Court ruled that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity constitutes discrimination based on sex under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. This ruling aligns with constitutional principles of equality and nondiscrimination. This decision reflects the broader trend of applying constitutional protections to ensure that historically marginalized groups are included under equal rights guarantees.5. The Constitutions Principles of Justice and Fairness Argument: The Constitution is built on principles of justice, fairness, and the protection of individual rights. These principles apply to transgender individuals, who are entitled to the same legal protections as anyone else. Supporting Points: The Constitutions Preamble emphasizes the need to "promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty." Denying transgender individuals legal protection goes against these constitutional goals by leaving a vulnerable group exposed to discrimination and harm. In the broader context, the Constitution has always evolved to expand rights to groups previously excluded, such as racial minorities (e.g., the 13th and 15th Amendments) and women (e.g., the 19th Amendment). Continuing this trend of expanding rights to protect transgender individuals is in line with the Constitutions history of ensuring liberty and justice for all.ConclusionBy ensuring that transgender people are protected by the Constitution, you uphold the broader constitutional principles of equality, justice, and fairness. These protections are essential for maintaining the integrity of American democracy, where ALL people, regardless of gender identity, are entitled to equal rights under the law. Finally, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, "Those who deny freedoms to others deserve it not for themselves, and, under a just God, can not long retain it."
02-26-2025
Melissa Cook []
CON
02-26-2025
Myke Selha []
CON
Medical experts have known for decades that it isnt realistic to fit all people into just two specific sexes. The varieties in human genetics and physical characteristics are to great. Sociologists have recognized that gender is fluid and is defined differently in time and place. If you agree with this bill, you are stating your childrens primary identifying feature is distilled down to whether they can produce an egg or sperm. That is very simplistic and sad. This doesnt even include the irreparable harm this bill does to any one who doesnt fit neatly into your narrowly defined box.
02-26-2025
Lenore Howard [None]
CON
By proposing that only male & female birthgender define everyone, you essentially remove (and further stigmatize) transgendered people from protection under the law and, thus, open the door to discrimination against transgender Iowans in education, housing, credit, and employment, among others. Youre not only erasing trans people's preferred identity, but, it seems, you want to essentially deny them their status as human beings. They are Iowa citizens, who contribute much to the state. As such, they deserve the same Iowa Civil Rights by law as those, whom the Republicans so arrogantly deem worthy.
02-26-2025
Joan Nagel [None]
CON
This proposed legislation is hateful, and harmful to an already marginalized community. It is exactly the opposite of what makes me proud to be an Iowan and an American. It is bullying behavior to a small, vulnerable group of people who just want to live their lives in peace. Leave them alone!This SHOILD NOT PASS!
02-26-2025
Michele Slawson []
CON
This is pure hate parading as legislation. This proposal does nothing but set out state back decades and should never have made it this far. You are elected to represent ALL Iowans and not just a subset you deem ok by some bigoted standard. Vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Kate Klefstad [Concerned Citizen]
CON
I am writing to strongly oppose HF583, which seeks to remove gender identity from Iowas civil rights protections. This bill effectively legalizes discrimination against transgender Iowans in employment, housing, and financial servicesfundamental areas that should be free from bias and prejudice. Civil rights laws exist to protect all individuals from discrimination, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to live, work, and participate fully in society without fear. Stripping these protections from transgender Iowans is not only unjust but also sends a dangerous message that discrimination is acceptable. It is not. Transgender individuals are our family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors. They deserve the same dignity, rights, and legal protections as every other Iowan. I urge you to reject this bill and uphold the values of fairness and equality that our state should stand for.
02-26-2025
Donita Hermsen []
CON
Do you want to go down in history as the people who took civil rights away from people, who promote discrimination against people. Taking rights away from PEOPLE based on gender takes Iowa back decades. Taking rights away from transgender PEOPLE is saying that person is "Less than". Our country's constitution says "ALL men (women) are created equal"! Christian religion says that we are all the same in God's eyes. Why do you think your bigotry should allow you to ignore the constitution? Why do you think your bigotry allows you to go against the teachings of Christ?? Why do you think your bigotry allows you to judge others who are doing nothing to harm you?
02-26-2025
Margaret Blom [Self ]
CON
I am white, married, a mother and a devout Christian. And I need you to hear that I do not support this disgusting bill. You are denying people their right to exist. Is this what we have come to in Iowa? Please don't do this. This is not what your constituents want.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is an attack on freedom. It's simple. Iowans aren't allowed to express themselves as you want. This is no free state, this is a repressive state. The state of Iowa is unsafe for anyone, if this kind of bill is allowed. If the government can determine discrimination is allowed under this case, what's next? Race? Sex? Age? Why don't we allow any kind of discrimination? After all, the state of Iowa clearly no longer cares about freedom, with this kind of bill in legislature. Iowa, as a state, will be avoided at all costs. Universities will lose students. Businesses will lose workers. This state, in which I've lived my whole life, will die out as a sad backwater, no longer an innovator.I hope you're happy about the precedent you're setting. Discrimination can be allowed under certain circumstances. This is what you want. Thanks for ruining my home state.
02-26-2025
Leanne Williams []
CON
It is not too late to do the right thing. As a pastor's wife and a Christian, I strongly believe this bill is immoral and wholly unnecessary, and it actively hurts Iowa as a whole. Erasing civil rights for a protected group of people sends a very strongly negative and unwelcoming message to the rest of the country and the world: Iowa doesn't want you; Iowa doesn't want your families, your children, your tax dollars, your contributions to the arts and economy. Iowa wants to bow to pressures from government leaders who are on the wrong side of history.How do you want to be remembered?This bill and its supporters are using bathrooms and sports to mask their fear of and hatred for people they don't understand. God asks better of us. The vast majority of Iowans who care enough to speak up are asking better of you.Do the right thing and stop this immoral bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Individual]
CON
HF583 Please reject this fateful piece of legislation for what it is. An unnecessary overreaching set of laws that in essence will make Iowa transgendered and their families leave Iowa for a safer community. I have already moved a loved family member over 2000 miles away. If this passes, they vow to never return to Iowa, even for a Christmas visit, in fear of how they might be targeted. How could you blame them? Iowa is becoming a hatful state for many people who are not white or privileged. This piece of legislation follows Steven Millers' agenda of hate and racism and discrimination. We do not need to follow this lead. Please reject HF 583 as your fellow Iowans do not believe you are doing the right thing.
02-26-2025
Abby Nagel [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Renee Harper []
CON
We know that this bill is not going to protect women. It is disgraceful, cruel, petty, immoral. It is an utter embarrassment to our state and government. Civil rights are ONLY meant to be expanded, never retracted. Vote no on this bill and get to work on things that matter our crumbling education system, lack of medical and mental health providers, helping the many families who are struggling financially.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Miryam Andrews-Ohlman [N/A]
CON
This bill is dangerous for already vulnerable people who are causing harm to no one by claiming their identities.
02-26-2025
chasity clark []
CON
I believe this will be extremely harmful to many people in the state of Iowa. Iowa has an obligation to ensure the safety and wellbeing on its constituents and passing something like this will not only harm the mental wellbeing of those in our state and around us, but it can inflict physical harm. not allowing someone to be their true selves is a direct hit to those around me and others in the LGBTQIA+ community. you are not doing right by your people to allow such a thing to happen. members of this community deserve to live as freely as cisgendered and heterosexual people. pushing this narrative does more harm than good and does not follow our countries promise of freedom. freedom is a right, and should not only be a privilege to those who follow this straightlaced narrative. we are all humans, who are you to judge whos allowed freedom of expression and whos not? let these people live their lives unapologetically. they deserve to utilize the rights theyre given as an American citizen. stop hurting your constituents in the name of doing right.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
02-26-2025
Joyce Kooker [Madison Co Democrat]
CON
02-26-2025
Peg Armstrong-Gustafson [Citizen]
CON
All citizens deserve to be protected under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. No exception. I oppose HF 583
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is going backwards. The LGBTQ+ community, just like all the races and genders that Iowa is made up should have their rights and liberties protected and intact.
02-26-2025
Mike Edrington []
CON
This bill will send a message to the world that Iowa is ignorant and fearful enough to enact laws which will directly result in the death and harassment of our own neighbors. It is pure hate, drafted with pain at the front of mind, and will forever stain all of Iowa. For the sake of humanity and civility, do not pass this bill.
02-26-2025
Jeff Koolbeck [NA]
CON
I am in strong opposition to this bill. Stripping anyone of their rights runs counter to human decency and the very spirit of our country and states founding principles. Iowa set the pace years ago when we were first in nation recognizing gay marriage. We must return to that state and show that we believe everyone has rights and will not be ignored and swept into the dust bin of life.
02-26-2025
Madelynn Krall []
CON
This bill is an embarrassment to our state, sending us squarely in the wrong direction of history. Removing civil rights from Iowans? Our legislature should be focusing on the (many) REAL problems in our state instead of vilifying our LGBTQ citizens and trying to fabricate fear of people who may be different than the homogenous population that we are (unfortunately) known as. Id love to see our legislature actually speak to and get to know the people who they believe are undeserving of the fundamental rights that they themselves enjoy. Id love more for the people whose rights are in jeopardy to have actual representation in this body. Stop this disgusting and misinformed campaign against Iowans and do your job. This bill serves no one and threatens literal lives, not to mention making our state look like hateful, ignorant bigots. Listen to the people you represent. Do better for our state. Stand up against this ridiculous bill.
02-26-2025
Jamie Vircks []
CON
Please do not take the voice away from Trans or other members of society! Everyone's voices count!
02-26-2025
Kristin Bode [NA]
CON
Vote no for this change to Iowas civil rights. I am very perplexed as to why this bill is a need of our state and why Iowa feels like they need to take civil rights away from PEOPLE, which is a personal assault of law that has the same effect of physical abuse and promotes hatred. By passing this change you are putting nullifying the right of people. Nongender conforming individuals should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. They want to work, have jobs and support themselves and their families. If they can be discriminated against for employment as well as other economic means such as rent an apartment, getting a credit card, purchasing a house, what will happen to them as productive people paying taxes and supporting our communities? These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived.This is not the Iowa I am proud of.
02-26-2025
Cecilia Norris MD []
CON
I am writing to strongly oppose HSB 242. This bill is trying erase an entire small group of people. I do not know what you consider as you determine how to vote on a specific bill, but if your criteria as any of the following, you should vote against this bill:What is good for the economy of Iowa. If you want Iowa to thrive, you need young people to relocate to this state. Young people are more aware than ever of diversity and the strength it brings to economies. Young, educated people are choosing to stay away from Iowa (we are 10th worst in brain drain). They and others who actually study patterns and contributions of factors in better economies, know that LGTBQ+ inclusive policies (in fact all inclusive policies) produce better economic gains. (https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/lgbtinclusioneconomicdev/)What is ethically correct for human rights. Trans individuals are a minority group that is being singled out on the basis of their biology, not on their poor treatment or oppression of other people. They pose no danger to others based on their own gender identity and are actually 4x as likely to be the victim of a crime than cisgendered individuals.What follows medical science All primary care medical societies support evidencebased transgender care which has already been gutted in the state of Iowa. They recognize the diversity that truly does exist in gender identity. As a family physician I have seen the devastating mental health effects and physical health effects discrimination has on individuals. Removing civil rights will only make this worse. What the Divine tells you is correct. Although I strongly support the separation of church and state, the reality is that the Iowa Legislature seems to want to base its laws on its interpretation of the Bible. If you are truly using prayer to determine laws, be sure to start your prayers with the commandments that the JudeoChristianIslamic God bestowed on humans love your GOD (It is up to Her to judge) and love your NEIGHBOR. For the majority of you who are Christian, use Jesus Christ as your example and listen to His teaching He who ministered to and included those on the margins of society. If you use other criteria, Id be interested to know what they are. The only reason I can see to support this bill is to promote hatred, increase persecution of the marginalized, consolidate power in the hands of a few, or to avoid doing the difficult work of governing in a way that lifts up all people. The state of Iowa has a limited amount of resources of time and energy and these resources should be devoted to improving the lives of Iowans tackling hunger, declining education (due to extreme lack of funding for our public schools), increased cancer rates, deteriorating water quality, health care deserts instead of passing laws that only exacerbate these problems. Please start standing up for things that value all individuals and stop trying to pit Iowans against each other.Cecilia Norris, MDI strongly urge you to vote against this discriminatory bill. HSB 242 does not represent what the majorities of Iowans want. (Just look at the comments). It is morally, constitutionally, scientifically, and economically wrong. Not only does HSB 242 send a message that Iowa promotes discrimination based on something individuals have no control over, it wastes time and financial resources having to fight these issues in court. It is time for all Iowans, but especially our legislatures to be brave and do the right thing to protects rights of our most vulnerable Iowans and use our resources to built Iowa into a welcoming, productive, communitybuilding place. Vote NO on HSB 242.
02-26-2025
Eli Licht []
CON
02-26-2025
Bethany Niciu []
CON
Our liberties we prize, and OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do oppose this legislation. This is not Iowa I moved to. We certainly should have different priorities in our state. Shameful.
02-26-2025
Kristin Largen [Wartburg Seminary]
CON
02-26-2025
Michelle Rubin []
CON
As an Iowan, I urge you to stand against this legislation, which would strip transgender Iowans of their protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act.Representative Steve Holt recently claimed that recognizing gender identity as a protected class has elevated their rights above others and infringed on their rights. He gave the example of women athletes competing against trans athletes as a right that is being infringed upon by trans Iowans having the same rights as everyone else. But that was already addressed in 2022 when the legislature banned trans women and girls from competing in female sports. Is that truly a justification for rolling back civil rights for an entire group of Iowans?Furthermore, Holt has also argued that female should be defined as someone who produces ova. By that logic, postmenopausal women, women with medical conditions affecting fertility, and even some young girls would not meet this definition. This reasoning is not just flawedit is dangerous.If Iowa passes this bill, we will be the first state in the nation to do so. We will be setting a precedent with severe legal and moral consequences.Our state motto is clear: Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. This bill betrays that promise. It signals that only certain Iowans are deserving of rights, while others can be erased.Even if you do not share my concern for transgender rights, I ask you to consider the broader implications. Once civil rights protections are dismantled for one group, who will be next? Women? People with disabilities? Veterans? History has shown that when governments start stripping away rights, the list of targets only grows.This is not about fairness or legal clarity. This is about erasing a vulnerable community. And if we allow it to happen now, there is no telling who will be targeted next.I implore you: Stand up for the values that Iowa claims to hold. Vote no on this dangerous legislation.
02-26-2025
Gilbert Gillespie []
CON
1. Inconsistent with scientific knowledge:https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16324intersexhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9935380/2. Inconsistent values of individual freedom3. Where is evidence of the "problem?"
02-26-2025
Tracy Houdeshell [None]
CON
This bill defies basic concepts regarding liberty. Civil rights laws exist to stop the dominant group from trampling on the rights of a disfavored group. The Iowa legislature granted a right that they were not constitutionally required to grant, so it would be an equal protection violation for that legislature to revoke that right.I urge you to oppose HF583 and support alol Iowans equally.
02-26-2025
Sofia Steele []
CON
Removing civil rights from people should never be a topic of discussion. Transgender people are people and deserve protections. Choosing to remove civil rights from a group of people is literally taking us back in time. Make the humane choice and vote against this bill. It has zero purpose other than pushing hate and bigotry.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Shawnacy Kiker Perez []
CON
I find it nearly impossible to believe that it is necessary to explain my reasons for opposing a bill known as the Civil Rights Removal Act. Let me repeat: The Civil Rights Removal Act. Could there be anything more unAmerican than a piece of legislature designed to remove civil rights from citizens of this state and of this country? It is an action that harkens back to the foulest injustices of this nation, and as such, is a criminally dangerous action, and an idea that, frankly, is a shameful affront to justice and to the core of what we as an American people and what Iowa, as a constituent member of this country purports to stand for. The attempt to bring this bill to vote is a clear violation of Article 1 Section 6 of the Iowa bill of rights which states, as this body seems to have forgotten, the following: All laws of a general nature shall have a uniform operation; the General Assembly shall not grant to any citizen, or class of citizens, privileges or immunities, which, upon the same terms shall not equally belong to all citizens. Trans and gender nonconforming Iowans are citizens of this state and as such shall enjoy the same and equal privileges upon the same terms as belong to all other citizens. This bill is unconstitutional and shall not stand.Removal of civil rights is an invitation to discrimination. You here in this legislative body, wish to remove trans and gender nonconforming people from this state. You wish to erase them, to keep them from your schools, your places of work, your hotels, your restaurants, your bathrooms. But, my entitled friends, you overstep. You overreach. You, like the infamous enslaver and criminally unjust lawmaker, Andrew Jackson, make assumptions about your own power that are egregious, and erroneous. These spaces are not yours to take away from others. They are not yours to define, they are not yours to protect. These spaces belong to everyone. They are OURS, as a collective. This economy: its ours. This education: ours. This state: ours. The streets we drive on: they belong to us. We the people. And you work for us. You dont get to remove anyone. You have no right to remove protected status. And to do it in the name of protecting women is a further display of your cowardice. To date there have been ZERO instances of trans women attacking cisgendered women in women's bathrooms. It has never happened. The imaginary monster you have created and against which this bill claims to stand DOES NOT EXIST. Furthermore, how does allowing discrimination against trans and gender nonconforming people in the job market, or in the housing market help women? How does denying trans people jobs help women? If you really wanted to help women, you would allow them the same bodily autonomy you allow men, you would allow them equal pay, you would do something about the fact that one out of every eight adult women in Iowa has been the victim of forcible rape sometime in her lifetime victimized, may I underscore, by cisgendered heterosexual men. You want to help women, fix those issues. This bill has nothing to do with protecting women. This bill is a hate crime, and I will not stand still and let it be perpetrated on my child by an ignorant, bully state. How dare you.The obvious, willful ignorance of this body is not only staggering, but malicious. Ignoring all studies and research on gender, ignoring the people themselves, their lived experiences, and their own bodily autonomy; ignoring even the tenants of love, acceptance and service, which pertain to the religion to which you love to signal a superficial allegiance, you continue in your targeted campaign of terrorism against Iowan citizens. Whatever aim your personal warped and bigoted imaginations may desire to pursue, the fact is that the United States of America does not dismantle civil rights. To do so is to actively work against the American project, and against the oath that you took when you stepped into this office. My children and I moved here a number of years ago from a major city on the coast. We were hoping to make a life for ourselves that had roots and connection; to find here in Iowa, a community we could belong to, and to which we could give back. And in a large part, we have found that. My children have made lifelong friendships, and we have found places in our community where we can connect, contribute, and belong. That is, until a few years ago, when the state government turned its back on my family. No longer a place of fairness, friendship and flourishing, Iowa will, for us, forever stand for bigotry and hatred and violence and discrimination. Stop this immediately, and, furthermore, check yourselves.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Melissa McAllister [Dungeonâ??s Gate]
CON
My name is Melissa McAllister. I am a small business owner, a mom of two, and a resident of Ankeny, Iowa. I implore you to vote no on HF583. No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, find a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like the rest of us. Stripping away enshrined civil rights is not Iowa nice. This week saw scores more people appear at the Capitol and register comments with the legislature in opposition to this legislation. There is an overwhelming majority of Iowans opposed to this legislationplease listen to your constituents! I beg you to consider the implications of this bill. Iowa cannot become the first in the nation to remove civil rights and to create a second, lower class of citizens. Doing so would also have farreaching implications on our workforce, our college students, and our families. Iowa is not somewhere people are going to want to remain, to seek their education within, or to seek employment within. Businesses thrive when our communities are inclusive and welcoming to ALL. This legislation sends a harmful message that transgender infividuals and samesex famlies are not valued member of our community. Such a stance has real consequenss for Iowas economy and Iowans from all walks of life. My husband and I chose to move to Iowa ten years ago. We started a business from the ground up and it has grown substantially. We are now forced to (again) consider whether we must flee this state. This bill would directly negatively impact our family, our employees, and countless customers we serve from within the metro and across the state of Iowa. Please dont let Iowa create a second class of citizens. Please protect ALL Iowans. Please remember and demonstrate, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Protecting people who are transgender from discrimination means treating others as we want to be treated. Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote NO on HF583.
02-26-2025
Zachary Hodges [N/A]
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583. This bill is born out of hate and does nothing to serve Iowa residents. This will have immediate and damaging impacts to so many. For so long, Iowa was a progressive state that I could be proud of. This bill erases that and puts us on the wrong side of history.
02-26-2025
Joseph Timm []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. It is hard for me to see it as anything but an attempt to erase trans people from legal conversations by "defining" them out of existence.I find it concerning that any representative would find this issue to be a big deal at all, much less more important than budgetary issues.
02-26-2025
Allison Cook []
CON
02-26-2025
Mike Sheetz []
CON
02-26-2025
Andrew O'Connell []
CON
This bill is a blatant excuse to permit discrimination based on gender identity and it's ridiculous how little effort goes into hiding it. Please stop trying to fight a culture war that no one wants and focus on issues that actually help Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No hate in our state! We stand with trans Iowans!
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Iowans did not ask to be thrown back in time to make it a less safe space. As a life long resident and mother, I want Iowa to move forward with support of all people.
02-26-2025
Zane Hawkins []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Public]
CON
Every Iowan matters! To those who are for this awful, hurtful bill, I implore you to fight your indifferences. Make it your goal to step outside of your comfort zone, and challenge your ideals/beliefs (some you may have had your entire life). I strongly encourage you to strive to connect and learn from those that this bill will initially impact...to continue to grow as individuals. Your decisions will create a ripple effect throughout our communities...let it be a positive one...one coming from compassion.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Sarah Cunningham []
CON
02-26-2025
Megan Griffith [Megan Griffith]
CON
Demonizing people for who they are is terrible. Iowa does not want this. Taking way protections and viewing citizens as less than and not worthy of Iowa's respect is despicable. I am a proud ally and am ashamed to be an Iowan at this point.
02-26-2025
Cynthia Rath []
CON
Trans people are just that.. people. They deserve the same rights, the same respect, and the same equality as any other citizen in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Retired teacher ]
CON
Dear Iowa Legislators Please stop terrorizing the LGBTplus community. How does changing the laws help you in your personal life? Is it really necessary to go backwards in time and make this community feel unwanted in Iowa? Please put yourself in their lives and see how unjustly they are being treated.
02-26-2025
Justin Pettit []
CON
James 2:813 NIV"If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, 'You shall not commit adultery,' also said, 'You shall not murder.' If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment."All people are created in God's image and loved by their Creator. Therefore, no one should be subject to discrimination of any kind, especially not under the guise of faith based moral integrity.
02-26-2025
Ian Murphy [Private citizen ]
CON
I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HSB242, a needlessly cruel bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. It would be a true national embarrassment for Iowa to become the first state to remove a protected class of people from its civil rights protections. This would almost certainly jeopardize Iowa's ability to compete for corporations to invest in the state, host events in the state which would boost the economy of the state at large and our own West Des Moines neighborhood in particular. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgender and who make up less than 1% of 1% of peopleshould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. This bill needlessly and cruelly kneecaps their ability to do so. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers or contribute to the basic functions of a meritocratic and democratic society. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against.. Please vote against HSB242.
02-26-2025
MELISSA LEIGH MCALLISTER []
CON
My name is Melissa McAllister. I am a small business owner, a mom of two, and a resident of Ankeny, Iowa. I implore you to vote no on HF583. There is no need for this bill. It is purposely cruel and harmful, emboldening bullies, and othering those who are already being constantly othered and made to feel less. No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, find a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like the rest of us. Stripping away enshrined civil rights is not Iowa nice. There is an overwhelming majority of Iowans opposed to this legislationplease listen to your constituents! I beg you to consider the implications of this bill. Iowa cannot become the first in the nation to remove civil rights and to create a second, lower class of citizens. Doing so would also have farreaching implications on our workforce, our college students, and our families. Iowa is not somewhere people are going to want to remain, to seek their education within, or to seek employment within. Businesses thrive when our communities are inclusive and welcoming to ALL. This legislation sends a harmful message that transgender individuals are not valued members of our community. Such a stance has real consequences for Iowas economy and Iowans from all walks of life. My husband and I chose to move to Iowa ten years ago. We started a business from the ground up and it has grown substantially. We are now forced to (again) consider whether we must flee this state. This bill would directly negatively impact our family, our employees, and countless customers we serve from within the metro and across the state of Iowa. Please dont let Iowa create a second class of citizens. Please protect ALL Iowans. Please remember and demonstrate, Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Protecting people who are transgender from discrimination means treating others as we want to be treated. Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote NO on HF583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
There are so many real and pressing issues right now. This bill is not one of them. It bill is harmful and cruel.
02-26-2025
Penny Jo Vossler [Retired]
CON
Let's make it easy. Every person in Iowa has exactly the same rights. If you want a right for yourself, you must agree that everyone else deserves the same right. If you would take that right away from one person, you must be willing to lose that right for yourself abd everyone else in aiowa.
02-26-2025
Libby Heinz []
CON
02-26-2025
Heather Roy []
CON
Hello? Are there any republicans left with a soul? Because Iowans consistently show up on these public posts, the Capital building, emails, and phone calls telling you we do not support these blatantly discriminatory bills and yet you are ignoring your constituents and passing hateful legislation. The LGBTQ+ community is beautiful. We add to our communities, we are not a threat. We are humans who want to live healthy, happy, safe lives like anyone else but GOPs want to find a scapegoat to attack and you keep coming for the trans community. STOP THE HATE! I strongly oppose this bill. I support the trans Iowas of this state and across this country. I support the rights of LGBTQ+ peoplethe rights to fair housing, employment, healthcare, and so on. What Iowans actually need is affordable healthcare, housing, food security, childcare, more mental healthcare workers, and research done to see why Iowa is the second highest state with cancer. These are our actual concerns. No one with a heart and a mind in this state wants to take away a persons civil rights. Stop spreading hate in our country. You are on the wrong side of history and you will have to live with your hateful choices.
02-26-2025
Stephanie Hartz []
CON
Statement in Opposition to HF 583I strongly oppose HF 583 because it seeks to impose rigid and exclusionary definitions of sex and gender that do not reflect the diversity of human experience, scientific understanding, or the rights of all Iowans. By restricting how sex and gender are defined in law, altering how they appear on vital records, and limiting protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, this bill directly undermines the rights and dignity of transgender and nonbinary individuals.Furthermore, by restricting school curricula on gender theory, HF 583 censors important discussions about identity, history, and inclusivity. Students deserve access to education that reflects the full spectrum of human experiences and prepares them to navigate a diverse society. Suppressing these conversations fosters ignorance and discrimination, rather than creating a safe and supportive learning environment.This bill not only contradicts wellestablished medical and psychological research but also risks significant harm to transgender and nonbinary individuals who already face higher rates of discrimination, mental health struggles, and social marginalization. Instead of legislating exclusion, Iowa should focus on policies that promote equality, respect, and freedom for all its residents. I urge lawmakers to reject HF 583 and stand for an Iowa that values inclusivity and human rights.
02-26-2025
Jaclyn Krebs [None]
CON
Hello,This bill is unjust and needs to be stopped. It goes against the state motto for Iowa. Please vote no for this bill.
02-26-2025
Abigail Meyer []
CON
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa, I can confidently tell you that the lives of transgender individuals are at risk. I see the pain that my clients experience day in and day out even before these bills were introduced. My trans clients believe that they do not belong and in their darkest days they believe that no one wants them to exist or be alive. This bill all but confirms those fears and threatens the peaceful existence of kind, compassionate, and afraid human beings. To vote in favor of this bill is to ignore what history taught us about what hate can do to a nation and a people. It is imperative that we maintain and safeguard the rights of every single person that is a citizen of this nation regardless of if you agree with who they are or what they do. I plead you to think of others, to have empathy, and to believe in a Nation that uplifts and inspires; not one that wages war and attacks its own people.
02-26-2025
02-26-2025
Jeremy Dietmeier []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583 and ask you all to vote against this bill. Iowa was once seen as a leader in civil rights and this would be a step backwards for our state. Why are we wasting our legislative time striping rights away from a small, marginalized community instead of looking for ways to improve our school systems, support our farmers, and make Iowa a place people want to move to. Iowa is one of the worst states in the country for "brain drain" with college educated young people moving out of the state. This bill will only increase those numbers. We should find ways to support our university graduates and keep them in Iowa instead of continuing to pass bills like this that encourage them to leave. Please vote against the bill and help make Iowa a great place to live for all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Jed Quinn Peterson []
CON
I am 53 years old, and was born and raised in Iowa. I have degrees from Iowa State, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa. I am a college professor and a school board member. I am on numerous other boards, and have volunteer as much as I can. My wife and I have a blended family, including 12 children. At the present moment, 7 of our children are in college, including 5 of them in Iowa. I have proudly proclaimed to the world that i am an Iowan. In fact, once I almost got in a fight with somehow who spoke poorly of Herbert Hoover. I love Iowa with my entire heart, but what we are doing here, taking away gender identity, is not the Iowa I was raised in, nor the Iowa I want to be a part of. Our state has such a rich history of being the first or near the first in so many ways. Iowa was the first state to have a Black Miss USA pageant winner. We were the second to allow gay marriage. If you google Iowa Civil Rights History, you'll see so many times that we were in the forefront, telling the world that we love everyone in our state and we want to help everyone here be better and happier. And now, suddenly, we have turned our back on a rich history of inclusion to one of ridicule and hurt. No one else in our country is removing trans people from their list of protected citizens. This isn't a bandwagon we are jumping on. This is us saying Iowa nice doesn't include everyone. This is us saying we'd rather not have as many people here working to make us a better state. It absolutely breaks my heart to say this, but this feels like a line that is being crossed that we can't come back from. And it's a line my family cant stand behind with all of you pushing for this. I hope all of you realize that if you keep passing laws like this, no amount of laws incentivizing doctors to come to Iowa or librarians to come to Iowa or anyone with college degrees to come to Iowa are going to change our fortunes. If we really want a robust economy, if we really want a place where families can stay together in their communities, if we really want a place that feels like heaven, then that starts with not hurting the most vulnerable populations we have. Turning our backs on those who need us most isn't just hurtful, but it is not Christian and it is not ethical. Please don't pass this awful law. I can promise you that it will not make our state a better place, and in ten years you'll be remembered for this and nothing else, and history will not be kind. Our new Welcome to Iowa signs say "Freedom to Flourish." It is clear now that it should read "Freedom for some to Flourish, and others to move away or kill themselves or live sad lives trying to fit into a society that doesn't love or respect them." We can do better. We need to do better. Please. Please. Please. Do better. I want to still be proud of Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Impact on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Transgender Individuals An Appeal to EmpathyStudies consistently show that transgender individuals face significant mental health challenges, particularly when their gender identity is not acknowledged or respected. A literature review published by Dr. Edward McCann and Danika Sharek (2016) found that transgender individuals who face discrimination or lack genderaffirming healthcare have higher rates of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation (p. 283). Moreover, research indicates that legal recognition of gender identity (such as allowing changes to birth certificates) significantly reduces the mental health burden on transgender individuals. In a crosssectional study published in The Lancet, individuals who are able to update their gender on legal documents experience lower rates of depression and improved overall wellbeing (Scheim et al., 2020). Restricting this recognition, as HF 583 proposes, could exacerbate these mental health challenges.Educational Impact of Limiting Gender Theory Partially in response to Brad Lawson, an advocate of HF 583(Lawson was quoted in a We Are Iowa article about HF 583: Our educational system is there to educate our kids. Based on facts and not feelings. Theres no place for gender identity for our most vulnerable that are already confused by so much in this world.)A large body of research supports the inclusion of diverse gender identities in school curricula as a way to foster understanding and reduce stigma. The American Psychological Association (2023) has noted that inclusive education about gender identity helps reduce bullying and improves outcomes for LGBTQ+ students. Replacing "gender identity" with "gender theory" and restricting related discussions could limit students' understanding of gender diversity and perpetuate misconceptions. Additionally, research in developmental psychology shows that children who are taught to respect diverse gender identities develop better social and emotional skills (Fabes et al., 2019). Limiting this knowledge can harm social integration and understanding in future generations. Studies have also shown that when schools do not provide inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students, those students experience lower academic achievement, higher absenteeism, and increased rates of mental health struggles (APA, 2023). Inclusive education policies would likely lead to better academic and social outcomes for LGBTQ+ students receiving an education in Iowa. The Bathroom Issue Partially in response to Amber Williams, an advocate of HF 583 and a member of of Inspired Life, a conservative religious organization(Williams was quoted in a We Are Iowa article about HF 583: This isnt about hatred or exclusion, its about acknowledging that women have the right to feel secure in spaces meant for them.)Concerns about safety and privacy violations in public restrooms do not have empirical backing. A peerreviewed study published in Sexuality Research and Social Policy concluded that nondiscrimination laws in relation to public restrooms, locker rooms, and changing rooms are not correlated with criminal incidents in these same public spaces (Hasenbush et al., 2018). Results of the study also indicated that violations of privacy in the aforementioned public spaces are exceedingly rare. References:APA. (2023). LGBTQ+ inclusive curricula. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/lgbtq/lgbtqinclusivecurriculaFabes, R. A., Martin, C. L., & Hanish, L. D. (2019). Gender integration and the promotion of inclusive classroom climates. Educational Psychologist, 54(4), 271285.Hasenbush, A., Flores, A.R. & Herman, J.L. Gender Identity Nondiscrimination Laws in Public Accommodations: a Review of Evidence Regarding Safety and Privacy in Public Restrooms, Locker Rooms, and Changing Rooms. Sex Res Soc Policy 16, 7083 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s131780180335zMcCann, E. & Sharek, D. (2016). Mental Health Needs of People Who Identify asTransgender: A Review of the Literature. Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, 30(2), pp. 280285. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2015.0Scheim, A. I., PerezBrumer, A. G., & Bauer, G. R. (2020). Genderconcordant identity documents and mental health among transgender adults in the USA: a crosssectional study. The Lancet Public Health, 5(4), e196e203.
02-26-2025
Lisa Muccigrosso []
CON
Our state motto is "Our freedoms we prize and our rights we will maintain." We welcome travelers to Iowa with signs that say "Freedom to flourish."This bill, among others, makes those statements into lies. Do not let Iowa hold the ignominious credit of being the first state to remove a protected class from our civil rights legislation.
02-26-2025
Sylvia Allen []
CON
One of the fundamental principles of democracy is the existence of equal rights and protections for all citizens. Stripping transgender Iowans of legal protections is discriminatory and sets a dangerous precedent. Transgender people already face a higher risk of violence compared to cisgender people, and this bill makes trans Iowans less safe. Everyone deserves safety and freedom from discrimination, and Iowas laws should uphold those rights.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anna Turnquist [University of Iowa College of Law]
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, I believe one of the core values that makes our state great is "Iowa Nice." Ive experienced this firsthand during my years participating in RAGBRAI, where town after town has welcomed me with warmth and kindness. Additionally, after my family faced damage during the 2008 floods and the recent derecho, I witnessed communities across Iowa coming together to support one another in times of adversity. I believe this spirit of compassion should also extend to how we treat our neighbors with diverse identities.HF 583 (Formally HSB242) would remove civil rights protections that help Transgender Iowans feel safe and respected. I see no valid justification for removing these protections, aside from reasoning rooted in prejudice. I believe Iowa is better than this. Please dont prove me wrong, and vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Kelley Panosh []
CON
End Bigotry Just be kindSpread love.
02-26-2025
Tasia []
CON
This bill is harmful, shameful, and immoral.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Do not take away the civil rights of Iowans. We all live and work here and deserve the same protections.
02-26-2025
Makayla Rogers [None]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
This is abhorrent. Laws should not be changed to allow for discrimination.
02-26-2025
Victor naja []
CON
Ridiculous bill. Racism at its best. Very upsetting
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. Iowa being the first in the nation to remove a protected class from their civil rights protections? Disgusting! A state that used to lead in Civil rights causes, pushing through a garbage bill that would allow someone to be discriminated against for just existing? Disgusting! Protect our trans kids! This is not how Iowans feel. This is not how Iowans want their tax dollars being used.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The fact that this bill is even being contemplated is shameful. If this passes, its a clear indication that trans people are fair game to attack. The most ironic thing about this is every entitled rightwing nut will think they are the designated genital inspector in any restroom they are in. This will lead to the sexual assaults you claim you want to prevent (but really dont care about either). Voting on someone's rights is the ultimate demonstration of privilege. You are literally indicating that some people don't deserve the same rights you already enjoy. Every republican on this committee and in this house would be incensed and screaming in indignation if we suggested that they could only use bathrooms on a designated floor. Much less telling them how they must identify or that their existence is invalid. Please dont add hate to our laws. Separate but equal was a failed experiment that was kjocked out 60 years ago dont implement a jim crow style because you think a group of people 'make you uncomfortable'Being uncomfortable is where growth begins. Complacency leads to stagnation. Stagnation leads to rot & decay.
02-26-2025
Hannah Hendrickson []
CON
Con. This bill is a heinous act of bigotry and hate. It strips away civil rights and directly goes against what our state is supposed to stand for. It is morally and ethically wrong in every way.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Please vote no to the changes in this bill (HF 583).
02-26-2025
Christine Lehman-Engledow []
CON
This is a cruel bill that represents hate. If you vote for this bill, you are voting for discrimination. I do not support stripping civil rights protections from transgender Iowans. This makes Iowa look bad.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Bo Allen [Midwest Book and Media]
CON
02-26-2025
Hannah Johnston []
CON
All Iowans deserve equal rights and legal protections. Transgender and intersex people are not a threat to anyone. No religion or personal belief system should contribute to stripping civil rights from others.
02-26-2025
Jenna Guiter []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Protect trans rights. Taking away the freedoms of one group takes away freedom from us all
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The individual from PELLA PAC (Evelyn) who testified in favor of this bill at the house subcommittee used hate speech against one of your fellow House Members on her public facing Facebook page. She used a transphobic slur against this individual along with her photo. Why are you allowing hate mongers like her and her organization to influence your votes? She also posted an image representing an lgbtq person being drowned with a millstone tied to their feet. This tells you everything you need to know about the people who support this bill. They hate trans people and want them to suffer. It is completely immoral to pass a bill based on ignorance and hatred.
02-26-2025
Sophie Steffensmeier [Private Citizen ]
CON
It honestly breaks my heart at how dehumanizing this is. Trans folks are not some sinister monsters, they're human beings who just want to live their lives in peace. If this truly was an issue, why on earth is only now being brought up now? Gender identity has been part of the code for well over a decade, and we've gotten along with it being there just fine. Is it because transgender people are more visible in society? I'm honestly curious how many of those rallying behind this have actually met and gotten to know someone who is trans or nonbinary. People often fear what they don't understand, and this bill reeks of fear and ignorance. Please, do not let this stain Iowa's reputation.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [University of Northern Iowa Student]
CON
Trans rights are human rights! Their opinions, thoughts, identity+, matter!! Who are we to decide for them? They know themselves best and should be free to express themselves as such.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill.
02-26-2025
Olivia Hawkins []
CON
This bill is riddled with hatred. As a state and a community we should put efforts into inclusion and building up our neighbors. The time of Im scared so, I dont understand is over. Stand up, educate yourself and BE BETTER.
02-26-2025
Sarah Kimble []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Trans people are beautiful and deserve their rights like anyone else in the state of Iowa. Also, Jesus loves LGBTQ folks. Nazis are bad. Why have all the GOP gone googly eyes for Elon and his fascists? America wake up and get your priorities right. We are crippling the economy to help billionaires get richer while taking away food and healthcare from children and seniors all the while democracy is crumbling away. But sure Iowa legislators think lets spend time and money attacking trans people who are 1% of the population and cause no harm. You all look foolish and hateful. In the history books we will find your name next to Nazis.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Here's an idea. Safety glasses on. Instead of attempting to remove Gender Identify from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, why not rescind the discriminatory bills towards trans individuals you passed in the last several sessions? That way keeping Gender Identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act would not conflict with the discriminatory bills passed and everyone would be on an equal basis. Safety glasses off.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a mental health professional, I am NOT in favor of this bill. This bill only aims to hurt individuals, families, and communities. It's going to hinder Iowa's ability to attract and retain students, families, and talented individuals to our state. This bill WILL keep people from wanting to live and work in Iowa. It will result in poorer mental and physical health for many people, and increased substance abuse and suicide rates by legislatively condemning and erasing an entire group of people, stripping them of their identity and rights, and whose loved ones, friends, and allies will also be negatively impacted. The Iowa I moved to 18 years ago, that I truly believed I would never want to leave, is gone. I can't wait to take my family out of this place and move somewhere where the state government addresses REAL issues, like Iowa's insanely high cancer rates, poor mental health and education rankings, poor water quality, etc., instead of obsessing over what's in someone's pants.
02-26-2025
Kelly Hart []
CON
I vehemently disagree with this discriminating bill and I want my children and all generations to understand we treat ALL people with respect and kindness.
02-26-2025
Vanessa McClune [N/A]
CON
Please vote No on HF 583. Removing protections for gender identity from Iowa's Civil Rights Act sends a clear message to our trans and nonbianary friends, family members, coworkers, parishioners, and neighbors that they are no longer welcome here and that their rights will not be protected. This is unacceptable. Iowans believe in our state motto "Our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain", but this bill strips liberties and rights away from trans Iowans, which is immoral, unconstitutional, and sets a dangerous precident for the removal of other rights.Trans people are just trying to live their lives without having their very existence politicized. Trans rights do not infringe on my rights as a ciswoman or a former athlete, as some are claiming. I've never felt uncomfortable sharing a restroom or other public space with a trans person. Trans rights are human rights and we are all stronger together.Removing protections that were voluntarily given, however, sends a clear message to Iowans, the rest of the country, and the world that our leaders do not respect our basic human rights and that they can take them away at will.I ask all Representatives here today, what side of history will you choose to be on? I hope that you will choose to protect our liberties, freedom, and human rights. Please vote No on HF583. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Katy Perreard []
CON
02-26-2025
Sean Laughead [none]
CON
This bill denies Iowans simple, basic rights. In allowing its passage, this bill demonstrates that our leadership does not value the safety, prosperity, or labor of Iowans. Whether intended or not, stripping these civil rights from one class provides a precedent for the next and the next. I oppose this bill.
02-26-2025
Cindy Boland [Small Business owner]
CON
02-26-2025
Indigo Perry [Dubuque LGBTQ+ Resource Network]
CON
We shall overcome.
02-26-2025
Alex Johnson [Pastor ]
CON
I am a lifelong Christian and third generation clergy. I attended Bible studies before I could even read. My first story books were Bible stories. But the God who we worship was never on the side of the oppressor, always on the side of the oppressed. Mary rejoiced at the annunciation of her pregnancy with Jesus. She rejoiced that God raised up the lowly and torn down the mighty from their thrones, filled those who are hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. This bill does none of these things; I instead it further victimizes those who are oppressed.When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you;even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening.Your hands are full of blood! Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong.Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.aTake up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.Isaiah 1:1517To further oppression against trans Iowans is to be like those described in Isaiah 1 a people whose hands are full of blood. You know betterdo better. Do what God has called us to dotoDo right, seek justice and defend the oppressed.
02-26-2025
Diane Jones []
CON
You cannot erase a portion of the human race. Evil regimes throughout history have tried. Do not be on the same side of history as Nazi Germany against gay men and trans women, Russian Chechnya against gay men, and other statesanctioned hate and discrimination against the LGBTQ community. You may think this is hyperbole. It is not. This wrongheaded legislation puts us on the precipice of a slippery slope. Why else did the Governor and State Republican leaders deny so long that this would be on the legislative agenda, and then try to ram it through in one week?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Bible verses about loving one another: "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:3435)"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8)"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32)"Do to others as you would have them do to you" (Luke 6:31)
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The state of Iowa should not be the first state in the nation to have the dishonor of revoking civil rights protections from a group. It would set a dangerous precedent, and does not give Iowans confidence that the government stands to protect all Iowans and not just a select few. Imagine trying to revoke civil rights protections from Black Americans for example, that would be unacceptable and heinous. So why do those in support of this bill find it acceptable to do so for trans people? The Legislature should not be spending time and our tax dollars trying to take rights away from Iowans. Focus on things that actually improve our lives, instead of cruel culture war nonsense. Do not pass this harmful bill, unless you want to be known forever as the awful legislators who stole rights away from people.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Melanie Ruhaak []
CON
I am against this bill. Stop legislating hate! These people are not hurting you. Leave them alone. Start working on some legislation which would actually help our state grow and thrive. This just hurts people.
02-26-2025
Gabrielle Kathleen Smithman []
CON
This is not about protecting womenits about removing rights from some of Iowas most vulnerable citizens. Rolling back civil rights protections for transgender Iowans does not make women safer. In fact, it puts all of us at greater risk.If this bill were truly about protecting women, wed be talking about ensuring access to healthcare, passing stronger protections against domestic violence, closing the gender pay gap, or expanding childcare. But instead, we are talking about taking rights awayabout targeting a small and already marginalized group.Lets be clear: transgender people make up about 1% of the population. They are not the cause of the violence, inequality, and systemic issues that women face. If this body is truly concerned with womens safety, why has it worked to ban abortion care, restrict access to reproductive healthcare, and underfund services that actually protect women from harm? Taking away trans rights does not make me safer as a womanit makes all of us less free.History has shown us what happens when we strip legal protections from groups of people. It leads to more discrimination, more harm, and a more divided society. We cannot claim to value freedom and individual rights while actively writing discrimination into law.Trans women are women. And trans rights are human rights. I urge you to reject House File 583 and focus on policies that actually improve safety and equality for all Iowans. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Eighteen years ago, I gave birth to my first child. She was a healthy 9 lb, 4 oz baby with thick, reddish/auburn hair. Several of the nurses in Mary Greeley Hospital in Ames told me that my daughter was the most beautiful baby in the nursery at that time and I completely agreed.My daughter loved wearing dresses and having her nails done. She loved spending time with her girlfriends. She had a baby doll and took it with her everywhere for years. My daughter was voted The Kindest Kid by 160ish fellow second graders.Four years ago, my daughter came out as trans. I should mention that my daughter happened to be born into a male body. But shes always been my daughter, we just didnt fully realize it until 4 or 5 years ago. I dont know how why I was chosen to have a trans child, but it has been truly a walk of faith and love. I want to believe that if any of you sitting here today had a trans child that you would choose to love your child. Youd choose to protect your child. Ive been afraid for her safety much more than any of my other children. You see, Im also a mental health therapist who serves the transgender community, so Im very familiar with the increased rates of bullying, physical and sexual abuse, homelessness, discrimination, and suicidal ideation. A vast body of research shows that trans people are far more likely to be victimized by others than they are to perpetrate any kind of violence. My daughter and trans people are not something to be feared, they are human beings just wanting to be safe and live their lives in peace.Some would say that this bill is okay because other states dont have protections related to gender identity. States NOT ALREADY HAVING GENDER IDENTITY PROTECTIONS is VASTLY DIFFERENT than TAKING PROTECTIONS AWAY from transgender individuals. Taking protections away from this already incredibly marginalized group would signal to the general public that discrimination is acceptable, falsely sending the message that trans people no longer deserve basic human rights and protections that they once had.I urge you all to look deep into your hearts. Think of a time when you helped someone in need, vulnerable, mistreated, and scared. How did you feel when you helped? There are very few groups in our world today who are more vulnerable than our transgender community. Are you choosing fear, or are you choosing love and compassion for ALL Iowa residents?
02-26-2025
Kristina Ehlers []
CON
The Iowa Civil Rights Code is intended to protect all Iowa citizens. Those protections are even more important to a very small group of people who have already been marginalized in the state that they live in. To remove these protections says a lot as a State to every legal citizen. My son and I are personally affected every day by Bills already passed and what could come. As a parent, it is my duty to do what I can to allow my son to live to his full potential.I hope that instead of telling you what I think, that maybe a story would help. My son is a transgender male. At the age of 11, he confided in me that he knew something wasn't right, that he didn't feel right in his own body. So I told him that I love and support him, because I do. I also enrolled him into therapy, because this concept was new to me and I didn't understand it. After a year, he confided in me through his self discovery that he is actually a male, and not the daughter that I thought I knew. Of course, I continued to support his journey, but there were things that I needed to learn now. I went through denial, and thought that this would pass. In resisting, I put my son at risk. He became distant, and shut down to me. Sadly, this carried on until he had started to harm himself. He would have rather died than living as he was. I wasn't truly there for my son, and I will not make the same mistake again. This is not a phase, he has not changed, nor has he chosen any of this. We started talking to doctors. Turns out there are real facts, documented practices, and standards of care in place. They have been there for many years. After years already in this journey, we were starting to feel like ourselves, like a family again.Then the House bill passed in 2023. He could no longer receive the medication we had just started taking. Then another bill passed. He could no longer use the public restroom at his school. What were we to do? Living around it is what we tried. My son used the private restrooms the school made available to him, and we signed up for a several months long waiting list to continue his care in another state. It took another whole year and several visitations to establish care. Since the research and practices are, in fact, true and real, his care or medical plan did not change. The only difference now is that it was all out of pocket. From the progress we have made, I wasn't and will not give up on my son ever, for any reason. My son is now 17 years old and is faced with a State and Country denying his existence. To put it into writing that he is only a "theory, making sure all documented identifications tell him that he doesn't know who he is. Our State wants to remove his protections against discrimination when he wants to go out and live on his own, apply for a loan, have a career. He will not be able to change his ID or his birth certificate to align with his, which is a hard enough challenge in itself. The way we see it, society as a whole does not want him here. The ideas that are being codified into law are so disgusting that they should have no place in a representative democracy. These actions make a mockery of Iowas stated creed our liberties we prize and our freedoms we maintain. You are not maintaining any freedom, you are in dereliction of it. The message I want to convey is the hardships we have already faced. We are not asking anyone to think the same way, or even to understand. In this case of human decency, please accept that there are others out there that aren't like you. The amount of people affected by this bill is small, but the impact is huge. When we could be living our best lives, living to our true potential, we are here. Trying to prove to closed eyes and ears of our existence, only asking for the right to have a chance for us to continue a life that would not inherently be identical to your life, but definitely not unequal.
02-26-2025
Bethany Nelson []
CON
This dangerous and unnecessary bill seeks to solve nonexistent problems. Leave trans and nonbinary Iowans their protections and use your time more wisely to improve lives rather than drive away marginalized populations.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Love is love. Why has the Iowa legislature become so full of hate, intolerance, and judgment? Is the goal to exclude anyone who isn't narrow minded, misogynistic, white, bitter, and afraid of anyone who disagrees with the MAGA ignorance?
02-26-2025
Ellen Hall []
CON
When everyone is not free, no one is free.
02-26-2025
Nick Atoms []
CON
The proposed bill is an unnecessary and harmful distraction from the real problems faced by Iowans. Instead of wasting time and resources promoting the hateful agenda of foreign and domestic terrorists, you should be working to promote freedom and prosperity for those you were elected to serve. Its obvious that this legislative body selfishly serves their rich masters at the expense of everyone else. I wish I could say I expect better, but I see you.
02-26-2025
Stephanie Simatovich []
CON
Do not pass HF 583!Do not make Iowa the first state in America to remove civil rights from a protected class of people. Iowa has had a long history of being at the forefront of civil rights. Revoking rights for a class of people would be a stain on that history and be shameful for our great state. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. This bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute.If having civil rights protections for a class of people conflict with new laws Republicans want to pass, maybe those new laws are wrong and shouldnt be passed at all.Reject HF 583
02-26-2025
Barcey T. Levy [none]
CON
This bill would affect all Iowans. Iowa should be a leader in protecting all Iowans. Being transgender is not a choice. People are transgender because their gender identity (their internal sense of their gender) differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This is a natural variation in human experience and has been documented across cultures and throughout history. Every Iowan knows or has family members who are part of this marginalized group. Please DO NOT advance this bill. Iowa has plenty of other issues the legislature could be expending their energy on. As a state, we have among the highest cancer rates in the nation (could this be related to heavy pesticide use and drift, heavy alcohol use, our alarming rates of obesity or all of the above?); our rivers are polluted; farm runoff is ruining the Mississippi, one of the greatest rivers in the world; children are going hungry in every county; funds that could be used to support much needed improved public education are being diverted; women are going to bleed out waiting for help for a spontaneous abortion or placental bleed after 21 weeks, etc.Let's get back to issues that are more important than someone's gender identity.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Iowa should stand for freedom and liberty, not statesponsored harassment of people based on what's in their pants.
02-26-2025
Taylor Laverty [Having Empathy for other Human Beings]
CON
How can you remove rights to human beings? Trans people are not a threat. They are people. They are living their lives the way they want to with no impact on others, and this bill is stripping them of rights and protections they deserve to have, as do all people. This is a disgusting bill aimed at an already discriminated against and marginalized group of people. The legislature should be ashamed of themselves for putting this forth. Taking away people's rights and civil liberties simply because of who they are. That is not what America is, that is not what this country is. This is shameful and disgusting and there is no room for this hatred in our society. How dare you.
02-26-2025
Sara Richmond []
CON
As a woman and a mother of two young daughters, I strongly oppose this bill. This bill permits discrimination against transgender people in all aspects of life, and it is completely unacceptable for Iowans, for Americans, and for humankind. Why are we legalizing hate? Why are we legalizing discrimination? We need to protect these people, who only want to work, live their lives, and have the respect they deserve. They certainly have no interest in preying on anyone in bathrooms and locker rooms. As a mother, I am not afraid of transgender people. I am afraid of the people who would legalize discrimination against them.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
02-26-2025
Jennifer Santiago [None]
CON
I feel its important to state my strong opposition to this bill. This bill is embarrassing for Iowans who take pride in being kind people. Transgender Iowans are people who deserve to have and maintain civil rights. I have shared bathrooms with transgender women and we did our business, washed our hands, and possibly exchanged compliments about our outfits or makeup. I have never felt endangered by any of these experiences. As a cisgender, heterosexual mom, wife and grandmother I believe that passing this bill would be more harmful to women than any transgender persons existence. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Beth Hemmer [None]
CON
02-26-2025
John Soener []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. It is harmful and unnecessary. There are so many challenges our state facesa housing shortage, worsening academic performance, food insecurity, etc.and our legislature should be addressing those. There is no data showing the harm of trans people in public spaces, so let them be.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I am born and raised in rural Iowa. This bill is not in the public interest. It's common sense to protect those that are different and have been discriminated against historically. That's why gender identity was added to the Iowa Civil Rights bill in 2007. That reasoning remains sound today. As representatives of Iowans, a large part of your work is to uphold the state motto, "Our liberties we prize; our rights we will maintain." You should be working to ensure and most importantly maintain the rights of ALL Iowans, not to rip away the human rights of an already marginalized minority group. There are so many other, much more pressing issues, that deserve the full attention of the state legislature: funding our public schools and universities, cleaning up polluted waterways, addressing houselessness and food insecurity, helping our farmers deal with the devastating effects of drought or bird flu, improving maternal health care outcomes which is a severe issue in our state, fixing decaying infrastructure in our rural areas, and making this state an attractive option for starting or expanding small businesses, among many other more pressing and impactful issues. Why are you spending all this time and attention on stirring up fear of trans people when really they just want to exist in the world, work, live, and spend time with loved ones and feel SAFE in their communitylike everyone else. Maintaining gender identity protections in Iowa's civil rights law in no way erases or inhibits my womanhood or my rights, nor does it infringe on yours. Please do not allow this hateful, unconstitutional bill to advance.
02-26-2025
Sandy Bingaman []
CON
02-26-2025
Charles Wall [Independent ]
CON
This is the dumbest bill I have ever seen in my 30 years of being alive. Kim reynolds is the reason everyone is leaving iowa just like her 3 DUIs she got in office left her records.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Jason Lehman []
CON
This is hateful and straight out of 1933 Germany. Ive never been more ashamed to be an Iowan.
02-26-2025
Amanda McCurley [N/A]
CON
I oppose this bill . It is not only unnecessary, it is cruel, inhumane and a slippery slope into fascism. The authors and supporters of this bill are on the wrong side of history.Can we focus on healthcare, water quality, hunger, and supporting public education now?!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
This is absolutely unacceptable. As someone who has lived in Iowa her whole life, Im downright disturbed by anyone who would wish to cause such harm to any community of people. Do better.
02-26-2025
Cynthia Martinez []
CON
I am TOTALLY AGAINST HF583/ HSB242. I urge you to rethink your position and stop supporting it. This bill is blatant discrimination. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. I ask you to BE BRAVE AND STAND UP for what you know is right. Do not take away protections from a group of people who have been historically discriminated against. PLEASE VOTE NO. I will be watching to see how you vote.BTW You know that Elon Musk has a transgender daughter? What kind of man is Musk that he cannot accept his own child?
02-26-2025
Anonymous [ ]
CON
For the last several days, I have been at a loss at the introduction of the Civil Rights Removal Act which would legalize discrimination against trans Iowans. The comments here and statements made by my community tomorrow will be filled with statistics, facts, and warnings about this bill, and I doubt I would say any of this more convincingly than those who have presented it before me. So, I would like to say this: Iowa is my home. I left to pursue my education and spent years of my life dreaming of coming back to serve my community with this knowledge. I told anyone who would listen during this time that I was proud to return home. I defended my home state in the face of those who asked, "Why Iowa?" and pointed to the history of a state that valued and took care of neighbors and communities, who embraced others and sought to build a climate of safety and progress. I came back to this state, to my home, because I believe that Iowa can be that place again. Please vote against the passage of this bill.
02-26-2025
Macheal Heidesch []
CON
02-26-2025
Lana Lyddon Hatten []
CON
I am opposed to the discriminatory HF 583, Gender Erasure Act. Removing protections is a dangerous precedent.
02-26-2025
Patricia Benson, RN, BSN, MA-Education [None]
CON
This bill is a disgrace. Our state motto says , "Our liberties we prize; our rights we will maintain." You should be working to ensure and maintain the rights of all Iowans, including the small 1% who report as transgender. I believe Iowa needs to improve its education related to sex, gender, and gender identity. There is much misinformation and confusion regarding these terms. Don't let a lack of knowledge cause unwarranted fear of a group of people. That happened in Nazi Germany & has happened in other cultures as well. Vote no on this bill. Protect the civil liberties of ALL Iowans.
02-26-2025
Amy Luebbert []
CON
Please vote no on HF583. Discriminating against people for housing, banking, car loans, life insurance is immoral. Do not roll back civil rights, it's a bad look for Iowa. Trans people have always existed and will continue to. Don't be foolish and cruel.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I disagree with this bill as it is harmful to Iowans. Trans people have always existed.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to express my strong and unwavering opposition to HF583 currently being considered by the Iowa legislature. I am adamantly opposed to this legislation. Sexual identity and/or sexual orientation do not, in any capacity, diminish the humanness of individuals. Our government is charged with protecting its citizens, and this includes LGBTQ+ individuals.This bill not only undermines fundamental human rights but also fosters an environment of exclusion and discrimination. Our communities thrive when all individuals feel safe, valued, and supported. By targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, this legislation threatens the wellbeing of our neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones, many of whom already face disproportionate levels of stigma and mental health challenges.Iowa has a proud history of standing up for civil rights and equality. I urge you to reject this harmful legislation and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all Iowans. Let us lead with compassion and uphold the values of equality and justice that our state and nation strive to embody.
02-26-2025
Billie McKeag [Me myself and I ]
CON
I am a straight white 63 year old grandmother, I am here to tell those in charge that this bill is a HORRIBLE bill! It will destroy lives, force families out of our state and keep people AWAY from our state! Transgender people are HUMAN, they deserve to be protected like everyone else. I will never understand why the GOP is so obsessed with other peoples private parts! Comments made that women in the state are being discriminated against because of a transgender woman (also a WOMAN) is ridiculous, all these old white guys are in need of a new job. Let ALL HUMANS have their RIGHTS! DO NOT PASS THIS BILL!
02-26-2025
Abigail Smith [N/A]
CON
Please vote no on HF583. If you actually cared about "protecting women," you'd strengthen enforcement against domestic abuse, get all those rape kits tested, make childcare more affordable, push for paid family leave, etc. Instead you are trying to distract everyone by demonizing a tiny minority of the population, who are statistically *less* likely to commit violent crimes than the rest of the population. Ridiculous. We see through this.Protect civil rights for all. Vote no.
02-26-2025
Libby Foster []
CON
I remember the governor coming to my high school and reading the Civil Rights Act aloud when gender identity and sexual orientation were added. We were witnessing a piece of Iowa's history and the atmosphere was joyful. My understanding of what it might mean to be gay and face discrimination at that time was limited, and I really didn't know what transgender meant to be honest. I'd never met a trans person, and the collective conversation even a decade ago about gender was not as widespread, nuanced and known. Or perhaps it was and as I grew up came to a greater awareness of people with a different lived experience than my own, and their struggles and hate they face for simply showing up as themselves. This bill is ignorant and ignores medical professional organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics who advocate for "a supportive and affirming environment for gender diverse youth". Do you think taking away basic rights and trying to change language to exclude does that? As a teacher this is very concerning, "AntiTransgender Laws Cause up to 72% Increase in Suicide Attempts Among Transgender and Nonbinary Youth" according to a study from researchers at The Trevor Project. My point is, HF 583 is based on a lot of fear, misconceptions and ignorance and will cause real harm. I urge you not to pass this.
02-26-2025
Fiona Johnson [None]
CON
As an Iowan, I wanted to let you know how vitally important it is to protect all Iowans. Do not single out any particular group and exclude them from the rights that all other Iowans are afforded. We are your people. Respect us and treat us equally. Be it man, woman, gay, straight, Christian, catholic, trans or cis. I have been proud to be an Iowan. However, if we become the first state to remove civil rights of a protected class, I will be horrified and embarrassed to say I am from Iowa. Please do what is right.
02-26-2025
Elisa Lyons []
CON
As a mental health therapist dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of individuals and families across Iowa, I strongly oppose HF 583. This bills attempt to redefine sex and gender in statutory language, restrict the recognition of gender identity under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, and limit education on gender theory in schools poses significant harm to the mental health and wellbeing of many Iowans.Research consistently demonstrates that affirming an individuals gender identity is crucial to their mental health, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth, who face disproportionately high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. By erasing gender identity protections and restricting inclusive education, HF 583 risks exacerbating these disparities, creating unnecessary barriers to mental health care, and fostering a culture of stigma and discrimination.As a practitioner committed to evidencebased care and ethical responsibility, I urge lawmakers to consider the harmful mental health consequences of this bill. Policies should be guided by compassion, scientific research, and the fundamental rights of all individuals to live with dignity and authenticity. I strongly urge a NO vote on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Sarah Fillmore []
CON
I am advocating against this bill because it will cause harm to those who are transgender or gender nonconforming in our state. If this bill asses there will be no protections against discrimination in employment, housing, education, etc. for our neighbors who do not conform to the stateprescribed definitions of gender identify. Every single member of our society deserves to live free from fear of discrimination for who they are. This is shameful and shocking.
02-26-2025
Quinn Payton []
CON
The first time I ever remember learning about trans people was during a field trip with my high school GSA to an Iowa Govenors Conference on LGBTQ Youth. A trans woman had a presentation about her life as a trans woman and I was transfixed. I went to the same talk twice in a row. Later on the drive back my mom said she noticed how captivated I was with the presentation and asked me if I would ever be interested in doing something like that transitioning. I said no.Years later in my third year of college I came to a realization that I was, in fact, trans. It took me years of struggling with depression and anxiety to figure this out. The reason I had said no all those years earlier is because up until that year, I had only ever seen and heard of trans women. I didnt relate to them because my brain said no I dont want to be a woman. It took me that long to figure out, I dont want to be a woman in any way, but thats how society sees me. I am a trans MAN. When I came to the realization, just a couple short weeks later, I was admitted to a local hospital for suicidal ideation. Coming to terms with who I was, was difficult, and I did not know if I wanted to put up with all the questions and scrutiny from other people. I felt that everyone would always see me as someone I could never see myself as, and figured it would be easier if I just died. Better all around for everyone. But then I got a notice from one of the staff that I had a call. It was my parents. I answered the phone and it was my dad crying. I vowed on that day that I would never again give up. There is nothing worse than hearing your parents cry because of something you did. Because they gave you the gift of life and what a slap in the face it would be to throw that away. So I decided to fight. I blocked out the noise from my brain telling me that people didnt care because I had proof now that they did.That voice is much stronger again today. After decades of working to love myself, the country and state that I have lived my entire life, is telling me Im wrong, I shouldnt exist, and I shouldnt have a voice. But I remember that vow I made myself decades prior. So I will continue to fight. Which is why I am urging you to vote NO on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
It is so disheartening to see that so many of Iowas lawmakers want to remove the civil rights protections that were previously put in place as a necessary safeguard against discrimination. All Iowans should have their civil rights guaranteed by law. I strongly oppose this bill and feel personally affronted by any lawmaker who says that removing gender identity as a protected class would be done to protect women. This move only discriminates. It does nothing to protect. Removing anyone's rights to be treated fairly in regards to housing and employment is wrong and passing this bill would but Iowas lawmakers on the wrong side of history.
02-26-2025
Isadora Kippes []
CON
I am writing in OPPOSITION to this bill. We can agree to disagree on trans people's (for example) participation in sports, but I cannot understand how anyone can support a bill that allows for banks to deny loans to trans people on the basis of being trans, for employers to deny jobs to trans people on the basis of being trans, for businesses to deny service to trans people on the basis of being trans. If this bill passes, this will be the first instance of a minority group losing a Constitutional Civil Right in United States history.As our state motto states, "our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." Please maintain trans Iowans rights by OPPOSING this bill.
02-26-2025
Christinia Crippes []
CON
Hello, I am writing to oppose this legislation. Iowa has historically been a state that has valued personal rights; in fact it's our state motto: Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. And so, not only is this legislation morally wrong for targeting the rights of a very small minority of people, it goes against everything this state purports to stand for to introduce discrimination into our state code, which is what this bill quite literally does by removing a protected class and explicitly stating a policy of "separate but equal" for gender identity.I hope that Thursday's speakers will have some chance of convincing a majority of legislators that this bill is wrong and should proceed no further. However, regardless of what happens with this bill, trans folks and gender nonconforming people will continue to exist. Lawmakers cannot write out people's lived experiences or their deepest wishes; they can only make it legal to discriminate against them and make their lives harder. Not only is that morally wrong, it is likely to result in actual harm to the people being discriminated against. That's something I hope the legislators who are supposed to represent us would not do to any of its people. Please vote against this bill for the sake of people I love and for the sake of Iowans I've never met but whose lives would be worse because of this legislation. Thank you, Christinia
02-26-2025
Sean Flaherty []
CON
Dear Representatives,A queer Iowan, I am grateful for state civil rights law including protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.I believe there is no more basis to remove civil rights protection from discrimination on the basis of gender identity than there is to remove protection from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Yet HF 583 leaves in place protection from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Science supports this argument. Studies suggest a strong biological contribution to both sexual orientation and gender identity, but the science is not settled. A review of scientific literature published in the Journal of Neuroendocrinology in 2018 concludes: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6677266/"Despite these limitations, the existing empirical evidence makes it clear that there is a significant biological contribution to the development of an individuals sexual gender identity and sexual orientation."The difference between protection for gender identity and for sexual orientation seems to be political. Representatives, I appeal to you to ask yourselves why you are removing protection for trans Iowans but not for gay, lesbian, and bisexual Iowans. You should remove neither protection from civil rights law. Of all Iowans who are not traditional heterosexuals, trans people face the most discrimination. They need and deserve protection under our civil rights law. Sincerely,Sean Flaherty
02-26-2025
Kathleen Schramm []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote no on HF583. This bill is legislating discrimination and taking away rights from Iowans. While a very vocal group of evangelical Christians may view this as a positive, the Christian faith in which I was raised did not contain exceptions. We are to love one another, full stop. Promoting discrimination is the opposite. This bill is a danger to the lives of transgender Iowans and the rights of all. It is hateful and has no place here.
02-26-2025
Sean Davies []
CON
Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.
02-26-2025
Sarah Fillmore []
CON
I am advocating against this bill because it will cause harm to those who are transgender or gender nonconforming in our state. If this bill passes there will be no protections against discrimination in employment, housing, education, etc. for our neighbors who do not conform to the stateprescribed definitions of gender identify. Every single member of our society deserves to live free from fear of discrimination for who they are. This is shameful and shocking.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
All Iowans have the right to feel safe and free to be themselves. This bill deprives your constituents from those rights. This bill makes Iowa a dangerous place for trans and gender diverse individuals, and should not be signed into law.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Hello there,Lifetime Iowa resident here and cisgendered heterosexual straight white male. I dont believe that any individual should be allowed to be discriminated against for their gender identity. To do so is unconstitutional and goes against the values of our beautiful state. The spirit of freedom and liberty in Iowa would be forever tainted if companies and individuals were legally given leeway to strip away the Godgiven freedoms of other Iowans. The beauty of individualism and industriousness in our state is that its equally available to all Iowans of all backgrounds and identities. To pass a bill that diminishes those freedoms and liberties would be antithetical to our moral code and core foundations. Everyone, regardless of gender, race, sexuality, etc, should have equal access to care, housing, and employment opportunity in our state, so I say that voting for this bill is voting against that unfettered right to freedom and opportunity. Essentially it is a vote against the American dream.Sincerely,A concerned Iowan
02-26-2025
Jessica Johnson []
CON
I oppose this bill because LGBTQ+ folks deserve to live their own lives without government interfering. Let's keep the government out of people's beds, their personal medical records, their personal lives, and how they choose to live them without hurting anybody else.
02-26-2025
Rose Cooney [N/A]
CON
Vote no on this hateful bill.
02-26-2025
Cara Rotschafer []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. My spouse and I moved to Iowa almost 5 years ago because of the state's antidiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people. This bill would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans, including for my spouse. The Iowa Civil Rights Act doesn't give trans Iowans any special treatment it simply ensures that they are treated like anyone else. Taking away these protections will hurt and endanger trans Iowans, and drive them to leave the state. My spouse and I love it here, but we may be forced to leave if this bill passes. We are homeowners. We love our neighborhood and our community. We enjoy shopping at small, locallyowned businesses. My spouse works at a library, and I'm an attorney. We are foster parents and hope to adopt one day. We just want to be able to live our lives without the threat of discrimination. For our family, and for all of the trans people and families in our state, please reject this bill.
02-26-2025
Mary Jo Snodgrass []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Trans lives matter. Stop wasting time and money on taking away civil rights.
02-26-2025
Dr. Haley Seymour, PharmD []
CON
It is abhorrent that the state of Iowa is even considering this bill. This is a blatant violation of human rights, as NO human should be unprotected from discrimination by mere existence. To deny that gender BY DEFINITION is a social construct and therefore is a subjective IDENTITY, not just theory, is utter absurdity. Then, to define equal as NOT the same when that is THE LITERAL definition of equal, being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value, is just false. The only place in this bill that mentions equal is Sec.12. Section 216.6 A, subsection 2,paragraph a, Code 26 2025 which states equal work and equal skill should be paid at the same rate for all. Why was this definition added? I cannot fathom a single explanation as to why this new term for equal was included that isnt inherently malicious. I am ashamed and disgusted that the people who are supposed to represent Iowans and protect our rights have allowed this hatefueled ideology into our legislature. Do better Iowa.
02-26-2025
Katherine Davies []
CON
I am in strong opposition to this bill, and I am begging you to please vote NO this horrible, hateful legislation. Stop wasting taxpayers time and money trying to fight all these antiLGBTQ+ bills when there are REAL problems in Iowa like children & families facing food insecurity, water quality issues, lack of accessibility to vital healthcare, chronic underfunding in our public schools just to name a few. Transgender people have always existed and they always will. All this bill is doing is causing unnecessary harm to lowans who are just trying to work, live and grow in Iowa. This bill enforces and even *encourages* discrimination. By proposing and advancing this bill, you are telling all transgender Iowans they do not belong here. You are telling them they dont deserve basic rights simply because of who they are. You are telling people they are not worthy having their basic human needs met unless they conform to your hateful and ridiculous standards. Make no mistake this law will have dire consequences. It will set a precedent in Iowa that shows we are clearly moving towards making sure everyone knows that you dont belong in lowa unless you are a white, straight, Christian cisgendered individual.
02-26-2025
Regan Wolbers, MD []
CON
I am writing to express my opposition to removing gender identity from the civil rights act of Iowa along with the other discriminatory proposals in HF 583. Its shameful, honestly, that we are even debating taking CIVIL RIGHTS AWAY FROM FELLOW IOWANS. This is not the Iowa that I grew up in and am proud to reside in. This is not loving, it is not neighborly, it is not Midwest nice. This is legislated hate and discrimination. Period. What happened to love thy neighbor?You do not need to understand your neighbor, approve of them, or even like them, but you are called to love them.Stripping them other civil rights is not loving your neighbor. This bill is shameful. Do not vote this bill into law.
02-26-2025
Kristopher Davis []
CON
The change to this bill allows for discrimination against trans people or people who use gender identify and limits their rights as citizens. All citizens should be treated with respect and have the same rights everyone else.
02-26-2025
Michaelyn Mankel []
CON
Iowans are struggling. Massive, record breaking floods hit our state over the summer, routine spills and leaks are poisoning our water, the agricultural market has seen two years of decline, there have been mass layoffs across multiple industries YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED FOR SPENDING SESSION ATTACKING CIVIL RIGHTS.
02-26-2025
Megan Clausen []
CON
I am a lifelong Iowan and I just turned 40. I remember learning all about our great state in 4th gradeway back in 1994. I remember learning about and memorizing our state motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. What a great motto.After living away for a few years I moved back to this state to be a Lutheran pastor. My faith teaches me to love everyone and to serve the most vulnerable among us. My faith also teaches me that we are ALL beloved children of Godno matter what.Please do not vote to take away rights of Iowans who happen to be beautifully transgender. This is not okay. Being the first state to strip human beings of their rights and make it more difficult for them to exist is not something to be proud of, nor does it fall in line with our state motto.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-26-2025
Cristin Atoms []
CON
I dont know where to begin. This bill removes civil rights. Isnt that enough to be against it? I love people who are trans. But I shouldnt have to have any connection to the community having their rights stripped from them to care. It is simply wrong to revoke civil rights. Always. This bill removes protections from marginalized people. This bill harms people. You know this is a bad bill, otherwise you wouldnt force this through so quickly. The sheer speed with which this has been jammed through is alarming. Why could you not fund cancer research at this rate given Iowa is leading the nation in new cancer diagnoses that are further along? Why couldnt you repair our infrastructure that is actually crumbling? Why not address childhood hunger? Or ensure we have clean water?There are so many real issues that Iowa is facing, that are actually pressing. None of the concerns of the average Iowan are that their neighbor has too many civil rights. Please vote against this legislation.Because trans people are people. And if that eternal reality isnt convincing for you, then vote against this because dehumanization never stops with one group. If you cut anyone out of your definition of humanity, then literally anyone, any other group at all, can also be carved out of the category humanity.Civil right should only ever be expanded. Rights only are scarce by your pen, by your vote.Please do the right thing.Please vote NO.
02-26-2025
Allison Bywater []
CON
This is an unjust bill. It is not freedom. Gender expansive individuals have existed throughout history this is not a new thing. The targeted hatred towards these individuals, these valuable members of society, has to stop.
02-26-2025
Eric Saylor []
CON
I am writing to express my strongest possible objections to HF 583. The fact that elected officials are even discussing the idea of rolling back civil rights on a small minority group is appalling to begin with; the fact that this legislation is being proposed with the explicit intentas expressed by both the House Judiciary Committee's chair and the Speaker of the Houseof ensuring that this minority group may be legally discriminated against by the state of Iowa is disgusting. That transgender people are only protected from such open bigotry by their current inclusion among the protected groups in the Iowa Civil Rights Act is prima facie justification for leaving the statute untouched.The state of Iowa has a long and distinguished history of trailblazing actions in the history of civil rights, from racial justice realized In re the Matter of Ralph in 1839, declaring that the slave state of Missouri had no jurisdiction over enslaved people who made their way to the free territory of Iowa, to the admission of Arabella Mansfield to the bar upon recognizing that her gender was no barrier to practicing law, to the Varnum decision legalizing gay marriage. All of these cases were justly decided inasmuch as they allowed people to live their lives under the same protections and with the same goals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as granted to white men. Transgender people are simply the latest group to claim these same inherent rights, and should continue to be acknowledged among those groups who deserve specific protection in making that claim.Transgender people are no threat to anyone. They want to live their lives in a truthful and honest way, as any of us do, and the fact that their existence makes some people uncomfortable is no justification for attempting to legalize bigotry against them. On a personal note, one of my children identifies as trans nonbinary, and since November's election, has been living in a constant state of fearfear that the state that should be expected to defend her rights is not only looking to suppress them, but to call for open discrimination, even violence against her and anyone like her. No one should have to live under such conditions, and the legislature should be ashamed to even entertain the thought of their imposition. Please vote no on this billdo not be the first state in the nation to roll back civil rights already enshrined in law.
02-26-2025
Emily Bingaman []
CON
As a lifelong Iowan, I vehemently oppose this bill. This kind of hate has no place in 2025. Trans people have always existed and they always will. You cannot erase them. I beg you not to bow down to this hateful rhetoric.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The proposed changes to this bill should not be made. Allowing discrimination and denial of gender identity is harmful and hateful. All people should be afforded the same civil rights and the proposed changes would limit the rights of transpeople and set us back in time instead of moving us forward.
02-26-2025
Nora Dwyer []
CON
We all deserve the right to exist and be recognized. I strongly disagree with this measure!
02-26-2025
Scott Steffen [Independent ]
CON
As a parent of a transwoman, I fear for her. Im not sure why we should take away rights. What are you offering instead? Never been in a negotiation where you are taking something away, without offering something. You have given these rights as a state. Now you want to remove them. You leave them with nothing. I get it, its not a negotiation. Its a decision. It should have been a discussion of your concerns. Then work on it in committee. Instead, just power a bill through.
02-26-2025
Solomon Fenton-Miller []
CON
I oppose removing freedoms from Iowa citizens
02-26-2025
Tony Burrell []
CON
I strongly oppose any bill that seeks to strip away the civil rights of transgender individuals. Such legislation undermines the very principles of equality, justice, and human dignity upon which our society is built. All Iowans deserve the same rights and protections under the law. Removing these rights is not only harmful to an already marginalized community but also sets a dangerous precedent for the future of all civil rights.When the rights of one group are threatened, no groups rights are secure! History has shown us that once rights are revoked from any community, it becomes easier for them to be taken from others. This erosion of rights jeopardizes the freedoms of every citizen, leaving us all vulnerable to injustice. We must not stand idly by as the rights of transgender people are systematically dismantled.We must resist any attempts to roll back progress and ensure that every individual, regardless of gender identity, is afforded the dignity, respect, and legal protections they currently possess and deserve. I implore lawmakers to reject this harmful bill and uphold the principles of equality, justice, and human rights for all Iowans.As a heterosexual male, I stand in solidarity with transgender persons and ask lawmakers to oppose this bill and promote a future where everyone is free to live authentically and without fear.
02-26-2025
Regenia Bailey [NA]
CON
I am writing in opposition to bill HF 583. This legislation to disenfranchise Iowans directly affects my family and friends. This bill sends a message that some Iowans are not worthy of protection or recognition, which is contrary to your responsibilities as lawmakers. Your job is to govern on behalf of ALL Iowans. I urge you to tap into your human decency and empathy to do your job representing all Iowans and reject this legislation.
02-26-2025
Melanie Hartzer [Melanie Hartzer]
CON
My daughter turned into a male. I support his decision. He moved out of the country of the USA because he was treated better there. I am a middle aged Christian woman and believe in equal rights for all.
02-26-2025
Jen Stillions [Self]
CON
The constitution is for everyone. Trans rights are equal to and exactly the same as all other human rights and to deny that this is the truth is the same as denying your own rights. Trans people are no different from you. We all bleed red.This hateful, discriminatory bill MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO PASS. The human beings you are trying to erase from existence are somebody's, son, daughter, mother, father, brother, sister etc. This bill is denying them the right to live a peaceful,proud and authentic life. They deserve this just as much as you do. Passing this bill will be result in more harrasment, more emboldening of hate crimes against the trans community, and, many more suicides of human beings. Is this really how we want to be recognized in the history books. Please stop this hateful bill from going any further.p
02-26-2025
Holly Anderson []
CON
Voting to pass this bill is a threat to our freedom and our democracy. Taking away the rights of a few is the beginning at taking away the rights of more. Trans people are our fellow humans and Iowans and they deserve to not be discriminated against.
02-26-2025
Roselyn Piehl []
CON
My name is Roselyn Piehl and I am a transgender student. THIS BILL MUST BE STOPPED. It is a blatant attack against my constitutional rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It does nothing to "protect women's spaces" and only serves to enable discrimination and hyperconservative hatred of genderdiverse people. This is on top of previous legislation to further marginalize our already threatened community. All this bill actually manages to accomplish is increasing the tremendous amount of risk genderdiverse people face just by being themselves. Even setting aside the thinly, no, entirely unveiled trans and homophobia this bill is based on, our state is continuing to exasperate its issues with a declining population. Your goals as representatives should be to make Iowa a welcoming place, not push more people away. In a more specific sense of how it would affect me, changing my birth certificate and living as my authentic self are the goals that have gotten me through some of the worst times in my life. They are what I look to get up in the morning and what keeps me moving towards what was once a bright future. What right does a small group of legislatures who will and have never felt my struggle have to say I can't live that life? It is by definition unconstitutional, unrepresentative, and violates every principle of human rights imaginable.
02-26-2025
Elizabeth Friedrichsen []
CON
I always find it funny when people say things like transing the kids or how inappropriate the conversation is because by all standards, I should be against LGBTQIA+ and Trans people. I grew up a missionarys kid. We moved all the time. I was baptized at 8 years old and in the church. I went to private school, grew up reading the Bible and praying at every meal, and church every Sunday. My parents are Evangelicals and worked the mission field for the majority of my life, most of it in this very state of Iowa. And yet, despite all of that, I am still transgender. I am nonbinary, a category that is never even brought up in conversations, and despite the years of the church telling me that being gay was a sin and being trans was wrong, I still am. I spent years trying to pray the gay away. I sat in classes at school where my classmates would trash on trans people. I heard all to rhetoric that everyone else hears. And yet, Im still transgender. Nothing changed me. No matter how hard I tried, I couldnt be any different. Ive come with the mind of defeat. Because no matter what I say, what anyone else says, the government will always choose hate. So just know that by erasing trans people from civil rights and public life, you will not be erasing us. We will always exist. We have always existed. We will continue to exist. But by removing us from the public life and protections, you allow for us to be hurt. To be abused, taken advantage of, treated like dirt, and killed. I wont apologize for the words I chose, nor should I. Because that is the reality that I have to life with every day in America with all of this antitrans hate. So you may succeed in allowing us to be silenced, but we will still exist. And somewhere, in some class, there will be a young child forced to listen to people dehumanize their identity, just like I had to my whole life.You have chosen hate by trying to advance this bill and told me loud and clear that you do not care for the citizens of Iowa. People who are like me who spent their whole childhood crying and begging to be normal. I am normal. I am me. You want conformity and I want you to know that in the history books, you will go down as being on the wrong side of it. Have compassion for the kids who are like me, who know who they are at their heart, who have done everything right, and still are trans. Who watch what you are doing and feel there is no other option but death. And their blood will be not on my hands, but on everyone who thinks that removing trans people from life was right. We have never hurt you. And yet, we live in fear that we will be harmed every day. And I will never forgive you for that.You wont even read this. I doubt youre even listening. But I beg for you to hear me anyway.
02-26-2025
Shannon Mess [Individual]
CON
Taking away civil rights from human beings who identify as trans is an unconscionable injustice. Civil rights protections are in place to ensure the health, safety, and liberty of American citizens. Any attempt to strip away the human rights provided in civil rights code is abominable. We are all humans deserving of dignity and respect regardless of how we identify. Passing this bill will cause far greater harm for an already marginalized group of human beings. I urge the House to vote NO on this atrocious bill!
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
I want to speak on saying no to this bill.
02-26-2025
Jeffrey Anderson [Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church]
CON
As United Methodists, we believe that all people are created in the image of God andhave sacred worth, and that certain basic human rights are due to everyone. We arecommitted to supporting the equal rights, liberties, and protections of all people,regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We oppose HF583 and SF418 thatwould remove Gender Identity from Iowa Code Chapter 216 of the Iowa Civil Rights Actwhich currently prohibits discrimination in employment, wages, public accommodations,housing, education, and credit practices. Discrimination against transgender individualsdid not end with the inclusion of Gender Identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, but it didreduce many discriminatory practices and provided the opportunity to file complaintswith the Iowa Civil Rights Commission and afforded a variety of remedies against suchpractices. That has been a positive development, and we believe that rights oftransgender Iowans would be adversely impacted by removal of Gender Identity fromChapter 216. We also oppose the language that seeks to make Gender synonymouswith Sex, which appears to be not just an attempt to reduce the rights of transgenderIowans, but to statutorily deny their existence. We would ask that both HF583 and itscompanion bill SF418 not move forward. Thank you
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Honey Grodt []
CON
Removing transgender Iowans civil rights is a major step backwards for our state. I am asking that you stop and consider what sort of impact this would make on the lives of many. If you choose to go forward with such hurtful legislation, you are doing a great disservice to your constituents by refusing to protect the rights of EVERYONE.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am urging you to reject this bill (SF418) and kill this cruel, unnecessary legislation. We heard loud and clear from Iowans yesterday that removing protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is unpopular and unwanted in Iowa. We do not want our state to be known for this first in the country status nor for adding separate but equal style language to Iowa code. This bill does not solve any identifiable problem faced by everyday Iowans and their families. By contrast, Iowa does in fact have the 4th highest rate of brain drain in the countryan actual problem that makes it difficult for employers to find workers and for our economy to thrive. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated equally by the laws of our state.Civil rights protections are a basic human right. They are not a problem that is affecting every day Iowans. Please do the job you were elected for and put your efforts towards actual issues faced by Iowans, like workforce recruitment and retention, educational decline, and land and water degradation. Do not let your legacy be one of hate.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is bill is permitting Iowans to have access to basic needs such as shelter. All because someone knows or might suspect they are transgender.
02-26-2025
Jacob Walleser []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I'm against this bill, taking away a person's right to not be discriminated against is asinine. What do you hope to get out of removing people's rights to not be discriminated against? Are you hoping for discrimination towards Iowans? I can't reason why discriminating a person in all fields of public life would make any sense and be beneficial for society as a whole.
02-26-2025
Daniel J Rudolph [NA]
CON
There's a temptation to turn this into some philosophical discussion about the definition of a man or woman, but that's a mistake. These things aren't relevant to policy. If a trans woman isn't really a woman in some sense, that's not an argument for why it should be legal to discriminate against her in housing, employment ot credit. This is simply absurd. We all get this when it comes to religion. I may not agree with Hinduism & even think it's silly & socially harmful, but no one suggests this is a reason to remove religion from the civil rights bill. We can disagree about all kinds of things. Civil right protections are what makes society work anyway.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am very concerned about the civil rights impact of the dangerous bill HSB 242 that will strip transgender Iowans of their civil rights. Stripping the rights of any groups of U.S. citizens is slippery slope and should concern us all. We are supposed to be the land of the free and the home of the brave. Please listen to your constituents and be one of the brave to vote no, and keep this the land of free, with liberty and justice for ALL.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Common Love]
CON
To be rolling back civil rights protections in the year 2025 is beyond shameful. As a lifelong Iowan I am disgusted that this bill has moved this far along in process. The Iowa I grew up in cared about ALL people, we were a leader in the nation for civil rights. The political climate that has been curated over the last few years is abhorent. The growing number of AntiLGBTQIA+ bills each year is disgusting, and the grounds for concern unfounded. It's plain to see that the rhetoric that is being pushed by bigoted leadership isn't for anyone's protection. It's an effort to eradicate anyone falling outside the gender binary. As a proud Iowan, and queer individual, I am not going anywhere. I am not alone. I know there are thousands of allies and fellow LGBTQIA+ folks across the state who feel the same way. Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain! VOTE NO ON HF 583.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote NO on this bill. Voting in favor of this bill will kill your constituents. This bill will increase violence toward your constituents. This bill will ruin lives of your constituents, their families, their loved ones. This bill will cause irreparable damage to all Iowans. Have the courage to say NO. Have the courage to save lives. Have the courage to stick to values of humanity, freedom, and respect. Vote NO on this bill, HF 583. Thank you.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Vote NO. Trans rights are human rights! This bill is unamerican, and will hurt ALL Iowans.
02-26-2025
Summer Santos Webber []
CON
To say everything I would want to say would require the length of a novel. Instead, I will focus on the part of this bill that would require trans prisoners be housed in populations matching their sex as assigned at birth. There is a term, V Coding, which refers to when trans women are housed in mens prisons. When this happens, these women are frequently subjected to the most horrific abuse and rape imaginable, far in excess of the norm for our already broken system. For trans women, any prison sentence served in a mens prison is effectively to be sentenced to constant rape and torture. Curiously, the House would never consider housing cis women in a mens prison because it would result in the same thing. Because trans women are women (and trans men are men), and are seen and treated as such (and, as bills like this show, are punished as such). If nothing else, i wish to impress upon you that a vote in favor of this bill is a vote to ensure the torture and rape of trans women in prisons, and that if you vote for it, you are voting in favor of rape.The fact is, regardless of this bills insistence that the sum total of gender is definable by the gonads one is born with, the example of V Coding proves that this is not the case. You do not know the genitals of every individual you meet, nor do you need to, nor do you require that knowledge to form a sense of someones gender. Because gender is not genitals. Its not sex. Its not gender roles. Gender is about perception. I am a woman because I exist in the world as a woman. I live my life as a woman, I am treated by complete strangers as a woman, and at no point are my genitals, whatever they may be, part of the calculus of the people I interact with. They see me and read me as woman, and as such I am woman.
02-26-2025
Nevi Zerkle [NA]
CON
I strongly oppose bill 583 which seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class under civil rights law. This bill not only contradicts established scientific research on gender identity but also poses significant risks to the wellbeing of transgender and nonbinary individuals, as well as broader societal consequences.Scientific Consensus on Gender Identity The American Psychological Association (APA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recognize that gender identity is an intrinsic aspect of human identity, distinct from biological sex. Research in neuroscience and psychology demonstrates that gender identity is influenced by a combination of biological, environmental, and social factors. Denying legal protections based on gender identity disregards decades of scientific findings and medical best practices.Brain scans have provided evidence supporting the validity of transgender identities. Multiple neuroscientific studies suggest that transgender individuals often exhibit brain structures and activity patterns that align more closely with their experienced gender rather than their sex assigned at birth.For example:Research has found differences in the volume and connectivity of certain brain regions, such as the hypothalamus, insula, and cortical thickness, in transgender individuals compared to cisgender individuals.Some studies suggest that transgender people's brain activity in response to certain stimuli more closely matches their identified gender.Differences in white matter microstructure have also been observed, suggesting a neurological basis for gender identity.Plausible Negative EffectsIncreased Discrimination and Harm Without protections, transgender individuals could face widespread discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. Studies show that transgender people already experience higher rates of workplace discrimination, homelessness, and denial of medical care. Removing protections would exacerbate these issues, potentially increasing rates of poverty and mental health crises.Legal and Economic Consequences Many corporations and business leaders support inclusive policies, recognizing that discrimination harms economic growth. States that have enacted antiLGBTQ+ policies have faced boycotts, loss of business investments, and legal challenges. This bill could have unintended economic consequences, making the state less attractive to businesses and skilled workers.Public Health and Safety Risks The Trevor Project and other mental health organizations have found that transgender individuals, particularly youth, face a significantly higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide when they experience discrimination. Removing protections could lead to increased mental health crises, placing additional strain on public health resources and emergency services.Legal Confusion and Increased Litigation Gender identity protections help provide clear legal guidance for employers, schools, and public institutions. Removing these protections creates uncertainty and opens the door for costly legal battles over discrimination claims, burdening both businesses and the judicial system.In conclusion, stripping gender identity from civil rights protections is not only scientifically unsound but also harmful to individuals, businesses, and society at large. I urge legislators to reject Bill Name and instead support policies that uphold equal rights for all citizens.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Please do not advance. It is an endorsement of discrimination.
02-26-2025
Elizabeth Hurt []
CON
Protecting the rights and livelihood of all our neighbors is our moral and ethical responsibility. Removing protections that ensure freedom and the pursuit of happiness for all people is antithetical to my understanding of what it means to be an Iowan.
02-26-2025
Jamie [N/A]
CON
I'm a nurse who works with many members of the LGBTQ community and am also nonbinary. I spent my entire adolescence and early adulthood lying to myself and being ashamed for not being what society has told me I should be. It has taken me well into my 20s to finally be honest and begin my journey of selfdiscovery and acceptance. Being trans or queer can be a nightmare in the healthcare system. This can range from providers using incorrect pronouns or names during appointments to denying or providing inadequate medical care. Many queer and trans people avoid going to healthcare providers for this reason. Taking away rights and treatment for the LGBTQ community is not going to make anyone less gay or trans. Taking away a diabetics insulin doesnt make them not diabetic. Telling someone with brown hair that its natural to only have blond hair isnt going to change the color of the hair that grows back in even if they dye it blond. Genderaffirming healthcare saves lives. Let me say that again, people will die if access to these medications and treatments is taken away. Maybe you dont care about those people though because no one you know is queer or trans right? Wrong. Queer and trans people exist everywhere and if you dont know someone who is then that means they dont feel safe to tell you. Why should we have to change who we are just because you don't understand or agree with it? I am done being ashamed of who I am. We are here and we matter.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [American voter]
CON
All Americans are equal under the law.Stop trying to take away people's rights.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Donald Seymour []
CON
The very idea we're even having legislature about what it means to be EQUAL is insanity.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
This bill is unconscionable. Why do you think you need to control the civil rights of this minor group? They are not hurting anyone and contribute to our society. Please vote NO to this discrimination.
02-26-2025
Wayne McDermott []
CON
It is so shameful that we are at this point in our society!!!Live and let live!!You are playing right into the Orange Facists and oligarchs plan to distract from real issues. Such as our democracy being trashed!!!
02-26-2025
Brandy [None]
CON
To whom it may concern (Republican)Say no to the HSB 242:Iowas Civil Right Act.Are any of you Doctors? Have any of you study Transgender I bet youre not and have not studied any information on this subject . Do you know its a proven fact that transgender people are born that way. What if it was your sister or brother if yall have a sister or brother or if it was your nieces or nephews would you want their rights taken away because they came out transgender. What yall failed to see is youre doing more harm than good theres a lot of trans kids right now that are getting bullied . Continue to get wors if you pass this bill. How is it far to take someone rights away just because you do not understand nor do you want to understand transgender people. How is it fair that you take away all rights because of your religion or that you believe transgender people should be treated less than a human being. I want you to honestly put yourself in a transgender person place and see how harmful, disgusting this is. There are kids and even adults that struggle with being who they are that they think and feel they dont deserve or belong here as in earth. And Im positive that there will be a lot more kids taking there own lifes because of this bill and other harmful and dangerous bills that yall feel the need to attack a certain community. Iowa is spouse to be a good state and well we are not. JUST SAY NO to the bill.
02-26-2025
Adelynn Gengenbach []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583, which seeks to strip civil rights protections from transgender Iowans and erase recognition of gender identity in state law. This bill is not about clarity or fairnessit is a direct attack on the dignity, safety, and rights of a vulnerable community.Transgender Iowans deserve the same protections, respect, and legal recognition as everyone else. Removing gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act will open the door to increased discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodationsbasic rights that should not be up for debate.Beyond the legal implications, this bill sends a dangerous message: that transgender people are not welcome or valued in our state. It will have devastating consequences, particularly for transgender youth, who already face higher rates of mental health struggles due to societal rejection and discrimination. Every major medical and psychological association recognizes that affirming transgender identities leads to better health outcomes, yet this bill does the oppositeit seeks to erase them entirely.Iowa has a long history of standing for fairness and equality. We should not be moving backward by legalizing discrimination. I urge lawmakers to reject HF 583 and stand for the rights and dignity of all Iowans.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill is awful and I do not support it. Leave transgender people alone, we just want to live in peace.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Christina N Smith [Proud Parent and Friend]
CON
Hello, my name is Christina. I am called Momma Smith by many and I am here today to speak on behalf of some of those people. One of the definitions set by MerriumWebster dictionary defines equal as to be identical in value. I stand before you as one of your constituents and ask you to remember this definition as you proceed with this bill. The reference that equal does not mean the same is not only is preposterous but is a serious civil rights concern. I have a house full of young adults that I have became a bonus mom to. These are children that the world seemingly forgot about or were deemed unlovable because of their gender identity. I have been living amongst these young adults for several years now, and I can personally attest to how living amongst a Trans Male son is no different than with my Cis Male son is. We argue the same, we laugh the same, and we love the same. I also have many friends that I care very deeply for that are hard working and actively trying to make this world a better place. One of my best friends is one that served our country and is now a Veteran. A Veteran.... someone who fought to ensure equal rights and justice for all. As you vote today, please remember these words, Equal is as to be identical in value.
02-26-2025
Angela Garrison []
CON
02-26-2025
Angela Sorenson []
CON
02-26-2025
Pamela Shafer []
CON
This act would set a precedent for legalized discrimination, erase fundamental rights and endanger transgender Iowans. We are experiencing a brain drain in Iowa and it's because of actions like this that are young people are leaving Iowa as soon as they complete their education to raise their families in states that are open to diversity and social justice.
02-26-2025
Sara Soto []
CON
02-26-2025
Frank Nidey [Grandfather]
CON
I have 10 grandchildren. I know that one of them has gender dysphoria. I am adamantly opposed to taking rights away from my grandchild and from all others so situated. Please do not pass this legislation that takes rights away.
02-26-2025
Megan Schaefer [IA resident ]
CON
02-26-2025
Luke Morris []
CON
This bill is evil. I find it disgusting that this government is attempting to strip anyone of civil rights. Everyone involved in writing and presenting it should be ashamed of themselves.
02-26-2025
Sergio Pérez [na]
CON
02-26-2025
Gretchen [Iowan]
CON
I oppose HF 583 and demand that you vote this bill down. HF 583 is nothing but a perfect example of WASTE, FRAUD, and ABUSE in our state government. It is WASTEFUL because it will expand the bureaucracy of our state government, further creeping into our lives. It would create more red tape with all the changes that state employees would have to make in regards to birth certificates and changes in terminology as written in this proposed ridiculous bill. Seriously? And for what? To take away a persons rights? HF 583 is a waste of our taxpayer money solely for the purpose to divide people just to hurt Transgender Iowans and to take away their rights. Have you no shame? FRAUD: While people are worried about the price of groceries, gas, and getting by, this shameful bill is being used to deflect away from what the state is not looking out for, working Iowans. Instead the proponents of this bill are trying to erase a whole group of Iowans who contribute to our economy. It's disgusting and downright immoral. ABUSE:This bill would pave the way to strike ANY OTHER protected class in Iowa code. That means people with disabilities, people of color, senior citizens, Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Iowans, women and yes even veterans could be the next group to be targeted.If you're in support of this bill, think again. Vote NO on this bill.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Personal]
CON
This legislation is steeped in hate and not logic. Weve had this law in effect for nearly 20 years without incident. This is about human rights, which we should be giving not taking away. Everyone, no matter who, deserves a livelihood, shelter, and basic rights. To say otherwise is dark, hateful and gross.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill legitizmizes hatred of those who are among our most vulnerable. If this were an issue of "bathroom safety," we could make private stalls for all bathrooms. Please, as a woman and member of the LGBTQ community I beg my representative to oppose this bill and fight for the civil rights of ALL citizens. You represent trans people, too. Please don't be on the wrong side of history.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I encourage you to vote no. Removing rights to humans no matter the gender they are or declare is not right. How can you give a group of people rights and then take them away? Gender is an array of mental and behavioral characteristics that relate to and differentiate from and go beyond the understanding of masculinity, feminist and neutrality. The Eurocolonialism historical view is a construct of man and women when it is actually broader than that. Gender identity is different from biological sex. Cisfolks only tend to look at the gender identity issue from the biological sex point of view. It doesnt matter how people identify unless you select to demonize trans identity which is what this bill is doing. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Dawn Lockman []
CON
Some days my eyes seem green, some days brown. Some days both green and brown, but really neither green nor brown. Did you know that no 2 people have the same exact eye color? I am the mother of a nonbinary, genderfluid person. Some days they are he/they, some days she/they. Some days they are both he and she, some days neither. Like my eyes, they are multitudes: fluid, expansive, nonconforming. I think of gender and gender identity like eye color, as a spectrum. I am a former molecular biologist and this makes biological sense. It also aligns with my experience and observations. Neither gender nor gender identity are synonyms for sex as HF 583 new section 4.1A purports. This section is reductionist and wrong. Do you want to be thought of as just your reproductive system or who you are as a whole human being? We should treat people how they want to be treated, and I don't know of anyone who wants to be treated solely based on their reproductive system or any other one part of their body or personhood. We live in Iowa, a state where, in 1968, the wise teacher Jane Elliott taught her students a lesson about bias and belonging with the blue eyes/brown eyes exercise. Today you are considering stripping human and civil rights from a group of Iowans because some legislators and citizens want to say some Iowans are less than others because of their gender identity, because they differ from some citizens' cultural expectations of binary genders. You could just as easily be saying, "People with hazel eyes are less than." This is unjust, uncompassionate, and hateful. Everyone wants to feel safe, belong, and have protections of their basic human and civil rights. This can be achieved for everyone with education and thoughtful, compassionate discussions and policymaking. Legislating hate against LGBTQ people has ripple effects that negatively impact their personal health and can also result in increased violence against them. Remember Matthew Shepard, a gay man. Remember Sam Nordquist, a transgender man. Their brutal murders haunt LGBTQ people and everyone who loves them. Your job is to protect all Iowans rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Creating and passing a bill to remove civil rights for any Iowan is uncompassionate and inhumane. It is also unAmerican and antithetical to our Declaration of Independence. I am writing to remind you that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are unalienable rights given to all humans. Transgender people are human beings. They are our neighbors, our family members, our healthcare workers, our teachers, our students, our grocery workers, our farmers, our construction workers. They deserve to feel safe and like they belong here, like all human beings do. They deserve the same basic protection under the law that all Iowans deserve. Please don't legislate hate. I urge you to vote no on HF 583.
02-26-2025
Teresa Mathews []
CON
The IA Flag motto: Our Liberties we prize AND OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN! Do not pass this bill which will legalize discrimination. ALL people in IA deserve basic civil rights. There is no reason to take away the rights of ANY people in IA! You have already passed legislation to "protect" women's sports and locker rooms etc. You have already passed legislation to control discussion in school settings regarding gender issues, so this is not necessary. Do Better. Choose to MAINTAIN RIGHTS for ALL Iowans.
02-26-2025
Jenna Lyster []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous [McDonald]
CON
02-26-2025
Connie McDermott []
CON
I keep hearing about a bill HF 583/ HSB242 that is to protect children, and yet the byproduct allows for discrimination against transgender Iowans. I think if a byproduct of a bill will allow for discrimination, then that should not just be an unfortunate circumstance, perhaps it is not the right bill. It needs to go back to committee and find a better version that does not allow for discrimination. The way it is now, it does allow for discrimination against transgender Iowans in housing and employment and a lot of other problems. PLEASE vote NO! Dont allow Iowa to be the first state in the nation to openly purge protections already in place for transgender Iowans.
02-26-2025
Jake McCoy []
CON
I am a husband to one wife, father to two children, faithful, serving member of a local church in Des Moines, and a lifelong Iowa native. My son is enrolled in a homeschool group linked with the Des Moines Public Schools at the Main Campus downtown.When a lawyer asked Jesus what the greatest command in all the Law was, he gave two answers: Love the Lord your God and, Love your neighbor as yourself. On the two hang all the Law and Prophets. Considering He provided the second answer unprompted, and that it has endured for generations, you would hope that someone would think twice about adding exceptions to this Law including for Transgender people. Theres hardly a people group that has faced higher scrutinization from society today. Despite the cruelty on display from everywhere, especially in the State of Iowa, Transgender people bear the image of God just as you and I, and they are due the same amount of respect as everyone else. Jesus didnt turn away Living Water from the woman at the well because she was a Samaritan; we shouldnt take away basic human rights and opportunities from Transgender people on the basis of their identity.This bill isnt an identity problem its a human rights problem.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I urge you to reject this awful bill being pushed through our legislature by hatred and fear. This bill does not protect anyone. It only endangers the already vulnerable transgender community by stripping way basic rights and protections. Transgender people are my friends, family, and neighbors. They are likely yours too. Iowa should treat them as such.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [O]
CON
This will do harm to Iowans. Even if you don't agree with the concept of someone being transgender, that is still a person. And this bill would not allow them to be treated fairly. This is a just a ploy to avoid focusing on real issues affecting Iowans in major ways. There is a heavier imbalance of negative impact this bill would have than positive.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I am against this bill. There is no way taking away any group of people's rights is the correct thing to do. Look at every place in history that has happened. It has never been the correct side of history. I am unsure why so many of our legislators can't see that. I also find your reasoning for wanting to pass this shows your ignorance about transgender people. Perhaps you should get to know your neighbors who are trans before making assumptions about them. This bill is horrible and it is allowing discrimination. It will open up all kinds of doors that have been closed for years to potentially allow discrimination against other protected groups of people. I was so proud of Iowa back when this was added. I am now saddened by how far we have regressed. There is no room for this hatred in our state. Live and let live. Please vote no to this bill!
02-26-2025
Ellen R Fliehler []
CON
Be kind to others regardless of orientation. Sex or gender shouldn't matter when talking about citizen's rights!
02-26-2025
Ian Perkins []
CON
This legislation is a clumsy, hastily assembled attempt to dictate a set of controls on the people of Iowa. It is being pushed forward with no empathy, care or understanding for how it will impact us as a society or even regarding who it will impact. A person's identity is an inherent right that belongs to that individual. Government's duty is to protect the individual, their identity and rights. This legislation goes against that duty and is misguided in nature at best...if not malicious.
02-26-2025
Joni Sackett []
CON
I am writing to strongly urge the Representatives to reject HF 583, which will strip civil rights from transgender Iowans, and others who don't fit into a narrow binary identity. You know why this is wrong, if only the mortification of being the first state to REMOVE civil rights from a protected class. Vote NO on HF 583
02-26-2025
Noah []
CON
This is a reprehensible bill fully legalizing discrimination and instituting antitrans Jim Crow
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Stripping rights of any citizen is wrong. It is cruel, and you know it. You worry our children will be damaged by transgender persons showing their identity?! I think your worry should be for a future where persons are cruel and unaccepting of differences. You may also be concerned what history says about you. Not to mention how you justify to God your actions that are against Jesuss words to love one another.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is cruelty, plain and simple. And it is the first step toward a more tyrannical version of Iowa and a more tyrannical version of the US. Nobody deserves to be treated the way that conservatives are treating the LGBTQIA+ community right now, and to legislate this bigotry is an affront to the the American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
02-26-2025
Lauren Campbell []
CON
My name is Lauren Campbell, and I am writing to you in my individual capacity as a City Councilor in Windsor Heights, and as a small business owner.The State of Iowa has a long and storied history of standing up for the underprivileged and underserved in our communities. Passing this Act would break our states proud tradition of respecting the rights of individuals.In 1839, the Iowa Territorial Court allowed a slave named Ralph to retain his freedom. No man in this territory can be reduced to slavery the Court wrote. In 1851, the Iowa territorial law banning interracial marriage was eliminated over 100 years before the United States Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia. When Iowas first public university opened, the University of Iowa, it admitted men and women on an equal basis. In Clark v. Board of School Directors, the Iowa Supreme Court held that separate was not equal in public schooling, resulting in integration 96 years before Brown v. Board of Education. A year later, in 1896, the same Iowa Supreme Court admitted Arabella A. Mansfield to the bar, making her the first female lawyer in the United States.These monumental decisions all took place well over a century ago, a testament to our prescience as fair and just citizens. The movement did not stop there, of course, as Civil Rights continued to evolve over the course of the 20th Century and in Iowa, we passed our own Civil Rights Act in 1965.This unfortunate legislation aims to reverse course not only on Iowas history of tolerance but will also all but repeal bipartisan legislation that was passed in 2007. Both Republicans and Democrats voted in support of adding gender identity to the Civil Rights Act. Recognizing that the political winds have shifted, there is something to be said for recognizing the efforts of your predecessors who worked together, despite their political differences, for the betterment of our State.We were elected to represent the interests of everyone in our communities. That includes transgender individuals or persons who do not fit into traditional gender roles. I speak for them because they are a marginalized group, and as an Iowan, I have a duty to speak against injustice and insist their rights be maintained. Our trans neighbors pose no threat to you or me or our families; they want to live and work in our great state, they want to pay taxes here, they want to enjoy the Iowa Nice I grew up with. Further, I ask you to consider the economics of these actions. There are currently 50,000 job openings in Iowa. We suffer from some of the worst brain drain in the nation and have a negative net domestic migration. Last year the President of the Iowa Business Council said Our workforce and our overall population is what's going to really hold us back from potential opportunities in the future We have too many jobs, not enough people to work them and yet there are continued efforts to make this a hostile place to live and work.For thirteen years, I recited the Pledge of Allegiance daily in school, promising liberty and justice for all. I was raised to believe in caring for and protecting those who are marginalized. As Jesus said in Matthew 25:40, Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.I urge you to reject HF 583 and remain committed to our state motto: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.Sincerely,Lauren Campbell
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please do not pass this hateful, hurtful and unnecessary bill. Discrimination of any kind should not be tolerated and certainly should not be enacted into law. I have always found it hypocritical that the GOP (party of small government) have no issue insertingThemselves in the most personal parts of human life. Thomas Jefferson once said, "The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government. This is bad government and the objective is cruelty, discrimination and hate. I ask you to please vote no on HF583. Hate and discrimination have no place in Iowa.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I think this bill is a step backwards for individual rights, is un Christian and claims to address a problem that doesn't exist. It will hurt the reputation of Iowa, and cause young people and families to leave the state and make companies less will to invest in and move to Iowa.
02-26-2025
Liz Cooney [N/A]
CON
I vehemently oppose this bill. Its discriminatory, disgusting, and a complete waste of time. Removing language, and protections, from our laws and codes will not erase LGBTQ+ existence, especially transgender and nonbinary people. We are here, always have been, and always will be. What it will do is cause more suffering, harm, lawsuits, suicides, bigotry, and acts of violence. When gender identity was added to our state laws and codes in 2007, it was in the pursuit of equal protection and civil rights. Several Republicans voted for the amendment at the time. Tell me, what harm has been caused due to gender identity being included in our civil rights protections? Name one incident in our state. You can't. Rather than allowing unwarranted fear and copy/paste rhetoric drive your actions, I urge you to talk with the real Iowans whom this bill will affect.As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I know personally the level of anxiety and stress this bill in particular is causing me, my friends, and my family. Every LGBTQ+ person I know in Iowa has or is working on an escape plan in case we need to flee the state because we are made into secondclass citizens with less rights and protections. For those who dont have the means to even make a plan for exiting Iowa, they are getting their documents in order, marrying their partners for added protection under current law, and connecting with underground communities for support. If the mental, emotional, and spiritual harm doesnt influence you to seriously consider the impact of this bill to have, perhaps money will. As a member of the business community, I urge you to think about the impact this bill will have on our economy and local communities. If the arguments against the removal of gender identity in Iowas Civil Rights code havent already convinced you of its discrimination and harm, maybe the effect on the economy will. Driving Away Young IowansAs it stands, Iowa ranks in the top 10 nationally for the worst percentage difference between the number of college graduates it produces and the number of college graduates living in the state, also known as the brain drain, according to recent Washington Post analysis and National Bureau of Economic Research. Career opportunities are a big factor and if we add discriminatory housing, hiring, and education practices, we are setting up the future of our state for complete economic failure. Removing gender identity as a protected class from our civil rights code will do exactly that. Did you know that nearly 30% of Generation Z identifies as LGBTQ+? Thats ages 1328 year olds currently. In Iowa, that generation currently makes up 27.1% of our population, according to the US Census Bureau 20192023 report. Thats nearly 865,000 young Iowans. Which means around 259,000 of them statistically identify as LGBTQ+ Iowans. Are our Republican leaders willing to push 259,000 of their own children, nieces, nephews, godchildren, grandchildren, neighbors, and fellow community members out of Iowa? Because that is what this bill will do. (Not to mention the thousands of LGBTQ+ individuals in older generations, including myself as a Millennial). Why would anyone stay in a state whose leaders do not see them as a human being worthy of protection, of housing, of education, of employment? Which then means millions and millions of dollars are leaving our state with us. We wont be paying taxes here. We wont be buying houses here. We wont be starting businesses here. We wont be providing arts and culture here. We wont raise their own families here. For generations to come.
02-26-2025
Douglas Baker []
CON
Many citizens have given various reasons why this bill should be thrown out. I shall refrain from speaking to their truths, but there are some peculiarities I wish to bring up:"e. 'Gender', when used alone in reference to..."In the case that one wished to use "gender" and "sex" at the same time to describe someone, will "gender" then refer to gender expression, gender role, etc.?Also, why does this bill give terms like "male," "female," and "mother" prescribed definitions, but then suddenly defines "equal" ... by what it's not? What does "equal" refer to? And what /is/ "equal" if it's not "same" or "identical"?This bill is a waste of mine and everyone else's time. I'm afraid the people who put this bill forward haven't even bothered to write things that make sense. Also, it's garbage.
02-26-2025
Tracy Kroeger [Citizen]
CON
Please do not support this bill. Iowa does not want to be known as a place where rights and protections are taken away. We want to be a welcoming place for all. Protected classes do not get extra rights; they just get the same rights as everyone else. Everyone deserves to be given a fair chance to support themselves and participate in society without being discriminated against in housing, employment, banking, medical care and education.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is unbelievably cruel,unconstitutional and confusing. Do my Republican representatives Tom Moore and Tom Shipley Not have bigger priorities than attacking one of Iowa's most vulnerable minorities? For THReE YEARS they have gone after Trans kids and their rights to healthcare, self expression, and safety at school. 3 YEARS they have attacked Trans and nonbianry kids right to exist. And now, if those kids make it to adulthood, they don't have the same rights and protections to exist and live as every other Iowan. I am a lifelong Iowan and I am sick of seeing our most vulnerable 1% sacrificed as a rage bait distraction. Childcare Criss, Cancer Rates, Water Quality, Funding our Public Schools, Feeding Hungry Iowa Kids and Food Insecure Adults, and Iowa's Obgyn Shortage are just a few policies that I feel should take a higher priority than apeasing the donors and lobbiests of the wealthiest 1%. In conclusion, this Targeted hate campaign of distraction by the Iowa GOP is hurting Iowans. All of Us.
02-26-2025
Meredith DeLong [n/a]
CON
I do NOT support this bill. Transgender people belong in Iowa. Iowans deserve freedom of gender expression, and that includes freedom of language. The refusal to acknowledge distinctions between sex and gender only opens up avenues of both gender and sex based discrimination. This bill does not protect anybody.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I oppose removing gender identity from the Iowa civil rights code.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Iowan]
CON
As an Iowan, I oppose this bill aiming to strip rights away from Trans Iowans. The Iowa I know and love, was one of love, respect and willingness to learn. A state where we loved our neighbors as the bible told us, where we treated everyone else how we wanted to be treated. Iowa Nice, right?But it turns out that motto couldn't be further from the truth, as the Iowa we have today, under republican control, is that of tyranny, with the end goal of causing every day Iowans fear and harm.This is not what anyone wants, and if you support this discrimination bill, because that's what this is, you should ask yourself, what you would do if you were in their shoes? If this was your son or daughter, your neighbor, mom, dad, best friend. Would you do what the Bible tells us, about fighting forthose that are oppressed? Or would you continue to lie about what you supposedly believe.I am absolutely appalled that this piece of legislation has made it this for, and quite frankly that it even exists in the first place.Vote NO on this bill. Trans rights are human rights. And should you decide to strip these IOWANS of their rights, remember elections are around the corner. Instead, might I suggest looking into the rising cancer rates, raising minimum wage or actually funding public education instead of pushing the voucher scam. In addition, this Trans discrimination bill will not get you a seat on Trump's team, it will only harm Iowans you claim to represent. It will further cast a negative light on Iowa, resulting in less tourism and a severe decline in anyone moving here. This will be your legacy. One of shame.Do the right thing for once. Vote NO on this bill. Leave our beautiful trans community alone.
02-26-2025
Eryn Cronbaugh []
CON
There is no reason to take away the rights of any human being. This bill legalizes discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodation, education, and credit against Iowans who are transgender. This is a moral issue. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.Protecting people who are transgender from discrimination means treating others as we want to be treated. Gods promise to care for all children of God means everyone should be treated as such. Including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination upholds Gods promise. Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote no.
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not support this bill as it is taking rights away from a minority group that needs them. It will allow hatred masked as "freedom" to be used to hurt the Trans community and those who love and support them. If this is allowed to move forward, who will have their rights taken away next? What other manner of injustices will be allowed? This bill is immoral and must be stopped now.
02-26-2025
Haven Haywood []
CON
I am against this bill. It is a direct attack against one of the smallest minorities in Iowa and a waste of everyones time. It does nothing but hurt people of ALL genders. Instead of pushing a bill through that is opposed by a majority of Iowans, legislature should be using their time to actually help Iowans. Heres a list of all the things they could be doing: investing in Iowa infrastructure, going after big ags contributions to skyrocketing cancer rates, funding public schooling, feeding those who are hungry, clothing those without clothes, housing those without homes, spending our tax dollars on things that actually matter (I.e. not school vouchers and bills that strip away rights), actually working to protect children by strengthening child labor laws. I could go on. This bill is abhorrent.
02-26-2025
Tony Brezina []
CON
I oppose this bill. It is not the governments job or duty to tell someone how they identify with their gender. And a reminder to the people for this bill. Gender is a social construct and sex is what you are assigned at birth. Also, there are babies born at birth with both sexual organs. And if the government is in the business now of telling the citizens how they should identify and what is or isnt allowed, I propose a bill be introduced to make it illegal for people to have tattoos or to cut their hair or to wear make up etc. Where will it stop? And for you congress men and women who identify as Christian, read the Bible again. I think youd find that Jesus would be not only hanging out with the trans and gay people, but would also be fighting for them. I strongly oppose this bill and ask every congress person to vote against it.
02-26-2025
Ken Bichell []
CON
This goes against the many hard fought battles in this state foe gender equality
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I cannot attend the protest so this is my contribution. My family has lived Representative Steven Holt's district a long time. I went to the same school my mother, grandfather, and great grandfather went to, in Steven Holt's district. I learned how to drive in Denison. The values of these community built me into who I am today. Someone who has a passion for public service. You know why? They taught me to care about other people, to have empathy, and emphasized the importance of the rights I am given as an american. I don't disagree with this bill because I was "radicalized" by the education system or by social media. I was radicalized by learning from people who live their life with compassion and love for their neighbors. I was radicalized in confirmation class by the bible and my pastor. Don't hide behind religion because those that truly understand the bible know this is wrong and Jesus would hate this bill. These communities deserve more than this bill. Iowans deserve better than this bill. Iowans have the 2nd highest rate of cancer in the country but we're worried about trans people? Our water is polluted but we're worried about trans people? Children are starving but we're worried about trans people. Our education systems, infrastructure, healthcare systems are crumbling but we want to take human rights away?? You cannot truly believe any of this is helping Iowans. I am disgusted by this bill. Transgender Iowans are still Iowans no matter how hard you try to erase them. You are supposed to be a public servant to all Iowans. This bill is dangerous and sets a precedent to remove civil rights from any of the other protected classes. And I know what you are thinking Steven Holt, "that's the point" because you literally said it yourself in your newsletter, While most protected classes are based on immutable characteristics, such as skin color, I have long believed that protected classes should be unconstitutional, since they elevate the rights of these groups above other citizens, and all Americans are supposed to be afforded equal protection under the law. In the case of Gender Identity, the impact of thiselevation of rights above the rights of others is profound." Just because a group a people who has been historically underserved and discriminated against is given basic human rights, does not automatically take human rights from others. Multiple people can have civil rights. Seems like common sense to me. This bill will kill people, whether through hate related violence, suicide, lack of access to healthcare, or poverty. Just know that blood will be on your hands. I truly do not know how those voting yes on this bill sleep at night. When I left Iowa for college, I would always talk about how proud I am to be an Iowan and the way "Iowa nice" shaped me as an individual. I missed Iowa so much, I came back two years ago but I don't know if I am proud to be an Iowan anymore. Trans rights are human rights. Iowan to Iowan, I hope you do what is right and HF583 is not it.
02-26-2025
Alina Pettit []
CON
02-26-2025
Anonymous []
CON
CON
02-26-2025
Brooke Garland []
CON
Its interesting to me that Kim Reynolds went to DC to testify that she was doing DOGE before it was a thing, and is now trying to stand up an official program, yet the waste is right here and part of her agenda. You are wasting tax payer dollars going after a group that makes up less than 1% of the population. How about getting to the root of why Iowas leading the nation in new cancer cases and bring forward bills to combat that? That would actually help all people; however, I suspect that helping people is not the goal. The donors are pulling your strings. There is no point of this bill, if not specifically to be cruel. Trans people have always existed and will continue to existthis bill just ensures their life will be harder. Trans people just want to live their lives, just like the rest of us. Their existence has no bearing on your life. I know the standard response to that is oh but it does when there is a man in the womens bathroom. What is described in that defense is a predator, and I suspect that anyone who votes in favor of this bill didnt have any problem with predators when they cast their vote to put one in the Oval Office. The bottom line is, you are supposed to work for the people of Iowa, and the people of Iowa are telling you this is not what they want. Do what you were elected to do, listen to the overwhelming majority of the people and vote this bill down.
02-26-2025
A Kalnins []
CON
I strongly believe that this bill will worsen the lives of everyone in the state of Iowa, including but not limited to transgender people, and is an infringement on the right to freedom of speech and expression, rights that transgender people are entitled to just as much as every other Iowan.
02-26-2025
Rachel Gulick []
CON
I am requesting that you please reject HSB242. I am a nonbinary, they/them using constituent from Bussey, Iowa. This bill would remove my basic protections as a Transgender Iowan. This bill creates complications for Iowans, such as myself, who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. My entire life, I have been misgendered. From holding doors for grandmas walking into stores at the age of six to odd looks from strangers as Ive walked into bathrooms still to this day, I know firsthand that peoples perceptions of me have never aligned with what they think I should look like or how I ought to be. The word tomboy was often used to describe me, but that was never something I tried" to be. The Are you a boy or a girl? questions and stares have followed me everywhere for as long as I can remember. Now, I worry how this bill will be used to police my everyday life in dangerous ways. My daily performance of masculine enough or feminine enough is based on what? What clothes I happened to wear that day, my hair and makeup, or no makeup? Clothes and makeup are superficial tools to express ourselves because "the world is a stage, and we are but actors. However, I worry about how this bill will affect my friends whose bodies have become the battleground of this bill and every other, targeting Transidentities. Our ability to get a lease, job, credit, etc. These are basic human needs in this society. This legislation is weaponizing peoples perceptions in ways that allow them to rob, kill, steal, and destroy Transpeople's safety, security, dignity, and ability to care for themselves. We dont want unemployment to rise. We dont want people using the system to support themselves, yet this bill seeks to remove the very protections that provide them access to a livelihood or to house themselves. No Transperson is trying to attend these churches that are supposedly concerned about being forced to accept Transpeople; this very notion strikes me as an abomination of Jesuss teachings, to begin with! Where is God's omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent love in that message? I ask these believers! Theres a famous saying, Were all born naked, and the rest is drag. Ru PaulFun fact: Victorianera, assigned male at birth children wore dresses until the age of eight, until the late 1900s and early 20th century. Fun fact: The Bugis people of South Sulawesi of Indonesia and the Malay Archipelago recognize five separate genders. I share these things because I majored in Sociology & Anthropology at Drake University. As such, I read a ton about different cultures, people, spiritual practices, and much more. My point is that although Iowa may have more of a monoculture landscape than the rest of the world, there are, in fact, many, many, differently different ways of being outside and inside the Great state of Iowa; this is a plain and simple fact. I cannot bear to look away, and I cannot bear to watch the eradication of our states honor and principled policies, a place I was once so proud to call home. Now, Im constantly worrying about the Transyouth I serve within the nonprofit Ive dedicated thirteen years of my life to and whether another one of them will choose to give in to the nadirs of life, into the darkness that constantly tells them to give up, darkness propelled by policies and bills such as these. I would know; I was once in that pit of despair myself.Your freedoms end where mine begin. I can think of absolutely no justification for a bill to remove the protections of our civil liberties and rights as Iowans (remember our state motto?!) that stand on anything other than religiosity and weak & tired rhetoric of were protecting women false narratives. Women dont need protection from Transwomen. Women need legislators to protect bodily autonomy and agency; Im thinking of all the women dying right now in ERs currently with ectopic pregnancies or left to go septic and die while there are medically safe and proven treatments that could save their lives in REAL ways. Not to mention Iowas lastinthenation or perhaps 49th, access to OBGYNs a 6month wait for many. Can we focus on this, please?!Who will enforce these bills? Police? It seems like another unnecessary task for an overburdened workforce struggling to recruit and illequipped to serve in this role. Just ask some of our state troopers at the capitol about how hard it is these days to recruit; I sure have been asking. I worry the folks taking it upon themselves to police this policy will resemble those white nationalist cowards who marched around the East Village of DSM this past weekend. How will these policies be enforced? Its literally impossible. This bill seems like a waste of time and taxpayer dollars to me. Or worse yet, a distraction from the actual support through policydriven work that everyday Iowans need and deserve right now. Could we subsidize eggs and not Meta?The passing of gender identity protections under Iowa's Civil Rights Act in 2007 was something I advocated for at the capitol as a student at Drake. Ultimately, passing those protections was a significant catalyst in my decision to stay in Iowa postgraduation. I am the change I wish to see in the world because I learned that if I was wondering why somebody didnt do something, I had to be that somebody.If the Republicans are trying to understand why so many Iowans are leaving today, why Iowa is shrinking, rural Iowa especially, and why young people arent looking to stay rooted here, it is because of bills like this. The lack of protection drove them away then, and its happening again because of lockstep politics. These bills keep folks from even looking to Iowa as an option. The eradication of a live & let live mentality in Iowa, fueled by this Republican majority over the past 10 years, is one of the greatest tragedies of our time. Where have all the Governor Ray Republicans gone?Please, please reject HSB242 for our common humanity.
02-26-2025
Anonymous [Business Owner]
CON
Every person deserves protection from all discrimination. Legislating discrimination based on something YOU dont understand is a YOU problem. Its a MAGA Republican problem. Its a your religion problem. Its a problem of the uneducated. Its ignorant, hateful, and dangerous. There are women who support this bill, who in the eyes of others, may not pass as women and can therefore be legally discriminated against based solely on their looks. The same is true for men. It can and will backfire on you, and you are not equipped to handle it.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Vote against HF 583! It is revolting that you think it is OK to take away the civil rights from transgender people? I am embarrassed to live in a state that would do this to any group of people! Transgender people do not deserve to be treated like this! I have loved ones and friends who are transgender, please dont hurt the ones I love. Do we really want to be known as the state that doesnt care about minority groups? You might know somebody thats transgender and not even know it. Do you really think theyre bad people? You are despicable if you vote for HF 583! Please dont ruin peoples lives just because you can or feel pressure from other constituents. Do the right thing. God loves all his children.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Please vote against HF 583 (formerly HSB 242). This goes against what the U.S. is built on it's belief that all are created equal and are given certain, unalienable rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This bill will promote discrimination towards our fellow Iowans and take away these rights. We are all people, no matter race, gender identity, etc., so why must we view people as less than like this? Vote against HF 583.
02-27-2025
Mary Odegaard [None]
CON
As a lifetime Iowan (age 64) I have never been so disappointed n the hypocrisy of our state and country. To the point of saying I am embarrassed to say I live in the USA. I highly recommend everyone watch the musical Kinky Boots for the message it reveals .you can change world if you change your mind. We can NOT go back!
02-27-2025
Henry Alexander Prager [N/A]
CON
This bill treats nonconventional gender experience as some kind of hostile ideology looking to hurt children. We have seen this before, it is no different from the red scare or the lavender scare of the 50s and 60s. Passage of this bill I to law would be a shameful and callous assault on the rights of Iowans, our friends and neighbors, for them merely being different. I oppose this bill whole heatedly, and the idea that we should *remove* the rights of any group is wholely immoral and against what America should stand for.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
If you truly follow Jesus you will embrace those different from you rather than shun them. Vote no on this bill. Shame on anyone who votes yes.
02-27-2025
Katie Ferring []
CON
As a social worker and therapist, I vehemently oppose this bill. The National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics states, "Social workers pursue social change, particularly with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed individuals and groups of people. Social workers social change efforts are focused primarily on issues of poverty, unemployment, DISCRIMINIATION, and other forms of social injustice...Social workers strive to ensure access to needed information, services, and resources; equality of opportunity; and meaningful participation in decision making for all people." Each and every social worker in this state who abides by this Code of Ethics is opposed to this bill. I consider it my ethical responsibility to speak out against it. Many social workers have clients who are already struggling to secure housing, employment, and good healthcare in this great state. Passing this bill would make it even more difficult for trans, queer, and intersex Iowans to do so. I have to ask myself what could we all accomplish if this bill was voted down today? Maybe we could work on making Iowa a place where everyone can afford housing, childcare, and the healthcare they need living in a state with the second highest cancer rate in the nation. Each of these issues impacts the lives of people we all know and as social workers we see the devastating impacts of them every day. Trans Iowans belong here and Iowa belongs to all of the people struggling to live, work, and die here every day. I urge you to oppose this bill and to do the job you agreed to do bettering this great state for all of the people in it.
02-27-2025
Tanya H Keith [Hat Trick Renovation]
CON
This legislation is bad for business. I have trouble recruiting national level events to Iowa because there are already concerns Iowa is anti LGBTQIA. This bill will cause discrimination against people without crystal clear gender identity. Women with short hair will be traumatized by accidental bigotry. I want an Iowa that protects my kid and the trans person they love.My expanded thoughts are at this link: https://www.bleedingheartland.com/2025/02/26/myoldestchildaskedmetodefendtransrights/
02-27-2025
Taylor Toohill []
CON
If I were to assume positive intent:This bill is at the very least a complete waste of everyones time. It is removing the rights your friends, family, and neighbors to accomplish what? How has us receiving the EXACT SAME protections that everyone else gets negatively affected anyone? Civil rights are not a zerosum game. We are not out in the rain trying to take an umbrella from someone else were just asking for the single giant umbrella to be a little bigger so that we can also fit under it.The problem is none of us are nave enough to think that these bills are proposed with positive intent. We get it. You hate us. And those of you who dont hate us just see us as an easy boogeyman that you can shine a spotlight on and then defeat for cheap political points. And dont pretend like this has anything to do with trans people in sports you already banned that. Dont pretend it has anything to do with protecting women you already put them in harms way by stripping away their bodily autonomy. Dont pretend like you care about public schools, their curriculum, or their students you already kneecapped public schools by funneling our tax dollars to private schools.Dont pretend its about protecting children you already struck down funding to feed hungry kids. And you should google what groups actually do pose the biggest threats to children, because spoiler: trans people wont be on that list.For those of you who sincerely believe in this bill, I ask that you reconsider, focusing on the people that this bill is hurting and why, and I hope that you vote against this bill.For those of you who are pushing this bill, Im asking you to dig deep down and find an ounce of humanity. Maybe youll come to terms with the fact that this is cruelty for the sake of cruelty, and then vote against your bill.
02-27-2025
Sara T []
CON
Please, for the love of humanity and the future of our country, vote no on this bill that would set a very dangerous precedent for the rest of the country. Taking rights and safety away from Iowans is just wrong. These groups protected by the civil rights act are protected for a reason. Without the law behind us, people feel entitled to treat us however they like. The burden of proof has always been on the person claiming discrimination. I don't see how this is any different or how this gives more rights to someone than anyone else. And if it is truly about rights, what is going to stop Iowa from removing the civil rights act all together? Are you ok with that? Where is your line when this becomes not ok? Is it when they come for you? Do you think they will stop here? And when will people realize that this is not about protecting women? If we cared about protecting women, we wouldn't ban abortions. We would work to close the pay gap. We would believe women who say they were sexually assaulted. If what everyone seems to be arguing is true, then it is MEN that women are afraid of, not trans women. If given the choice to have my child around a trans person or a priest/pastor/reverend/rabbi/etc. I would choose the trans person every single time. It is not people who have spent their life fighting to become who they truly are that are frightening. It is privileged, entitled men who scare me. What are we doing to protect women against the people who actually assault them? This bill is going to lead to rising hate crimes (will it even be called that anymore when a trans person gets their head bashed in because they're trans?) and selfharm/death by suicide. That is what you are saying yes to if you vote in favor of this bill. Blood will be on your hands. Do you want people to die because of your vote or do you want to be remembered as someone who stood up for what's right? Think long and hard about who you want to be. The world is watching.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
OPPOSE
02-27-2025
CON [icp]
CON
02-27-2025
Rylee Junk []
CON
Transgender Iowans are among the most vulnerable to assault, abuse, harassment, and other forms of violence. Stripping away protections against discrimination for trans Iowans will have deadly consequences. Lives will be lost the lives of your neighbors, coworkers, family, and possibly even friends, many of whom you may not even realize are trans. I urge you to consider the profound impact this bill will have on real people. This isnt about politics its about basic human rights and dignity. Please, stand up for your community and protect those who need it most. Do not pass this bill.
02-27-2025
Bailey []
CON
You are destroying the protection for students in Pride and Gay Straight Alliance clubs. This disregard for our childrens rights is bad, you are limiting freedom. This will also lead to horrible medical outcomes for Americans who rely on you to make the right decision. Vote No.
02-27-2025
Becky Lievens []
CON
Please do not change our civil rights laws. The main argument for support appears to be that parents are concerned that transgender females will take away scholarship opportunities for others. Is there any data to support this is happening? If the law is enacted, it gives license for those unkind people to harass and discriminate transgender people. I fear for the safety and wellbeing for transgender individuals. Christ taught us to love our neighbor and to protect the marginalized. Taking away their rights would be against be taking away protection. Taking rights away from any group is a slippery slope. By taking out gender identity, then what does that say to women who have been fighting for equal rights? Will they be the next in danger of having rights denied?It is wrong to take rights away. It is wrong to take protection away from the marginalized who are not harming anyone, just trying to live true to themselves. Vote no to this bill.
02-27-2025
Judith Nelson []
CON
Re: SF 418. I am an active voter and constituent since I became a resident in 2022. I attended a 4 year university in Iowa decades ago where I met my husband, a 4th generation Iowan going back to the 1870's.My husband and I agree that there is no need for removing gender identity from the list of commonly discriminated groups. To conflate sex and gender as the exact same meaning denies recently expanded, scientific knowledge. To make any of the proposed changes to Iowa's Civil Rights Statute will not make me or other women safer. These changes will result in greater threat to transgender people who already are four times more likely to be victims of violent crime; see Williams Institute, UCLA, Feb 2025. The Williams Institute concluded: There is no evidence that allowing transgender people access to bathrooms aligning with their gender identity jeopardizes safety and privacy. and that Transgender people face increased risks when required to use bathrooms according to their sex assigned at birth.See The Williams Institute, UCLA, Jan. 2025 Research shows that antiLGBTQ policies increase negative mental health outcomes for transgender people, and that affirming policies, such as the ability to obtain affirming identity documents, positively influence the wellbeing of transgender people.No transgender people are not getting preferential treatment over men and women who are covered by sex in the statute as it is now. The statute gives equal protection from discrimination to all people based upon these improper biases. The United States Supreme Court ruled in Brown vs. Kansas 1954 that separate and equal accomodations do not accomplish equal treatment, and also in Romer vs. Evans 1996 they upheld equal protection under the law for politically unpopular groups as guaranteed in The Constitution, 14th Amendment. If SF 418 and HSB 242 become Iowa law, then we taxpayers will have our money unnecessarily wasted defending a losing cause from the resulting lawsuits.
02-27-2025
Joe Stinson []
CON
As someone who was raised Catholic and went to a Catholic school K8, I remember one particular core teaching: Love thy neighbor. Trans people are thy neighbor. You don't need to go to a Catholic school K8 to figure out the math on that one.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My concern is that this act will exacerbate mental health crisis that the state is already struggling and unprepared to deal with. Particularly in the evangelical Christian circles. Where haveing a mental health crisis is shamed. I had a friend growing up who unalived herself. I suspect it had something to do with her gender identity though I have no evidence because of the circumstances Making someone live with gender dysphoria (apologies but this is still the Dsm term) has an adverse affect on mental health. This bill seems likely to cause suicidal ideation in certain groups of people. It will also exacerbate certain groups of people wanting to or needing to leave the state. Laws like this cause a domino effect and harm not just the people they are targeting at but there families and communities.Someone in this legislature could have a child or relative who is adversely affected or die because of this law. One of my friends in high school had a dad that was unable to transition to female until she was an adult and it left her mom alone and divorced in a catholic town where that was not acceptable at the time. Making someone wait to transition or not letting them acknowledge who they are has and will continue to cause significant hardship and suffering to those individuals their families and their communities.
02-27-2025
Kaitlyn Putnam []
CON
I strongly disagree with this bill as it is hateful and harmful for transgender Iowans such as my sister. I believe they have the right to change genders on vital records as they see fit. I also think that they are vulnerable to discrimination, and therefore deserve to be protected from that within jobs, housing, etc. Iowa has more important legislation to focus on rather than a bill that strips trans people of rights they were previously given. I am also a cisgender woman with 2 kids, whom this bill is supposedly trying to protect. Trans people are not a threat. They just want to live their lives in peace like everyone else. I am begging you all to please not pass this bill!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am shocked that as an American and Iowan that HF583 is even being considered and actually supported by so many in our government. Human rights are for all humans and should never be removed from any group of humans. The Transgender group just want to be treated fairly and equally. They should not be discriminated in any state. How can you legalize such hated against someone for just being who they are. They have done nothing wrong and are being treated like criminals. Supporting this bill will make more violence against them. Do you want to be responsible for that. They are Iowans /Americans who pay taxes and contribute to our country.I believe all human beings deserve protection from discrimination. The civil rights law should not exclude any group of human beings. constitution. Please think seriously about who might be next to be excluded from protection or basic rights. Someday it might be you. Thank you for fighting for rights for Iowans .
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is absolutely abhorrent to take away whole group of peoples rights for what?! This serves nobody but YOU and your minions. This hateful rhetoric does not belong here! How could we be one of the first to legalize gay marriage to this? As an Iowan who was born and raised here I fully detest this farce of bill. It is an absolute travesty that you are destroying this state with your bigotry and just hatred for all things good.
02-27-2025
Dr. Elizabeth Behre []
CON
Please do not vote for this absolutely hateful and disgusting bill. There are literally thousands of Iowans who count on the gender identity protections in the Iowa Civil Rights Act to protect them from housing discrimination, employment discrimination, and other forms of discrimination that can completely derail an individual's life.On a personal level, it is worth noting that in 2021 I became the first out transgender person to graduate from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Program at Des Moines University. Since that time I have completed a pediatrics residency, and am now completing a fellowship in pediatric endocrinology at one of the best children's hospitals in the United States. In the last eight months I have become absolutely fascinated by diabetes, published a paper on the topic, and have applied my previous experiences coaching football to helping my child and adolescent patients with diabetes achieve better control of their condition and better health overall. I firmly believe I never would have gotten to where I am now if it weren't for the very protections I was afforded from the Iowa Civil Rights Act while in medical school. I was protected, and now all of society (not just trans people) get to reap the benefits of that protection. Remember there are thousands of others still in Iowa with their own talents and gifts that are better able to flourish because these protections exist. Please do not take those protections away. Kill this terrible bill now!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Stuff etc]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
It is immoral to take away the rights of humans. Trans people are people. They are worthy of protection. We must stand up for them and use our voices and actions. Be strong. Be sensible. Have empathy. Trans Iowans should not be discriminated against and prevented from obtaining housing, keeping their job, living their lives.
02-27-2025
Erin Hayward [None]
CON
Please do not make it legal to fire, evict, or deny services to someone solely for being transgender or perceived to be transgender.
02-27-2025
Sara Steuer []
CON
Stop persecuting people in a politically motivated witch hunt. Removing a human rights protection from the state codes is a step backwards for humanity, a disgraceful stain on our state, and NOT what constitutions are asking you to do. Instead, if you can't act with compassion, then you must act in service to the public, as that is your sworn job. The public doesn't want this bill. Vote no.
02-27-2025
Dr Kara Raphaeli []
CON
Despite the specter of "danger to women" that Sen. Schultz and the other advocates for this bill are constantly referencing, the fact is that trans women are four times more likely to be victims of assault compared to cis women (according to a study by UCLA Law). Trans Iowans face discrimination and the threat of violence daily. This bill will unnecessarily increase that suffering. Last Saturday, three dozen white nationalists marched through the East Village. For all the condemnations from representatives, bills such as these embolden hatred and violence against our community.
02-27-2025
Aaron Gronstal [Self]
CON
02-27-2025
Laura Hubka [Public ]
CON
Since when did it become a pressing matter to remove the civil Rights of other human beings in Iowa? I have a nephew that would be classified in this protected class. I also have friends and coworkers that would also be classified in this protected class. There's a reason why it was added many years ago because there was a problem with them being excluded and discriminated against. I do not understand the thought process of being so very hateful.
02-27-2025
Erin Riker []
CON
As a person of faith, I urge you to vote NO on this bill. Please do not allow colleagues and lobbyists to diminish the weight of this decision by hiding behind bathrooms, locker rooms, swimming pools, or sports. This bill takes us far beyond that...Removing civil rights protections for trans people is to say that anyones rights are negotiable. Who will be next? How many Iowa voices will it take to say NO? And how will you be remembered in this moment? Please remember: Your humanity does not diminish mine, and mine does not diminish yours. There is room at the table for all of us.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I really really don't think this should be considered in any way because of like, everyone alive. I do believe in human rights for everyone. No matter the identity they see themselves as. It will just make the live of countless people in this state horrible and unlivable when they have to counter hate without any right of safety from the civil rights. Those people you are trying to villianize aren't the problem of our country. They never were. It will just be a way for hateful people and the real problems to hide away. It will just be a game of "who will be the next strawman to beat into the ground".
02-27-2025
Martin Reaves
CON
Iowa law makers need to do more about educating about what transgender truly means. Hate and bigotry come from ignorance. That is exactly what this bill represents. Persons in favor of this bill are supporting discrimination, hatred, and ignorance. How is this bill beneficial to anyone? Why would our state representatives support transphobia and make life more miserable for people who simply want to live their lives as their true self. It is not about our biological gender. It is about understanding that regardless of of our gender and who we are as our true self, we are all human beings with the same common needs and desires to simply live our lives.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
"Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain".It is the binding vow that we are taught in school that holds Iowa together. That we, the people of the State, will have a government that shall not infringe on what we hold above all else; our liberties and rights as people, to be treated as a person. Nothing more. Nothing less.Regardless of belief on the concept of transitioning genders, this bill stands to bring more ruin and strain against the people of the State of Iowa. For if the government can declare a person to be not a person, where does one draw the line? When can someone justify the dehumanization of a sibling, a parent, a spouse, or a child?"Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain". That means even I, a man with no doubt in his mind that he is a man, will stand up for those who are transgender. To protect their rights as people to live as the people they see themselves as, as do many others that are against this bill. We the people will hold our liberties high as a people together, or we will let it crumble under the boots of tyranny together.
02-27-2025
Sora Anderson [Self ]
CON
My name is Sora and my pronouns are he/him. I have been living as a trans man for the past eight to ten years..I came out in 2017 to my father to a not so great reception at first..Eventually he came around in his own way and called me by my chosen name and son. I got my first dose of testosterone in 2018. And it was lifesaving. It made me feel as if I had finally found the part of myself I had been looking for my whole life. I also wouldn't be where I am of it weren't for the people who supported me. My point is, I'm now scared, I'm scared I'm going to lose my human rights as a trans person since there seems to be a hateful agenda to make trans people like myself like second class citizens. You're not protecting anybody by doing this! By doing this,you're making it so I can't participate in public life as I knew it...all because of who I am..How is that fair? Me being trans doesn't hurt you..Why can't you leave our community alone and work on issues that actually need to be addressed; like affordable housing, employees and other issues of the like..Don't pass this bill!! It's inhumane and cruel. Like the nazis back then did to yeh Jewish population back then, you're stripping an already marginalized group of their basic human rights and dignity. And things like this have dangerous consequences.
02-27-2025
Lorraine May [Self]
CON
Our federal government says that transgender persons dont even exist (male or female from birth only). Please dont roll back basic human rights in Iowa. What purpose does it serve other than to permit abuse of our neighbors and friends?
02-27-2025
Jenny Ferguson []
CON
I am opposed to bill HSB 242. We need to protect our fellow transgender Iowans. Our country and state had come a long ways towards protecting them against discrimination, we should not be going backwards!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
Please vote NO to this bill or any other iterations of this bill. It is clear that this bill is rooted in hate, fear and so much misinformation. When there are very real issues impacting Iowans, it is disgusting to know this is how legislators decide to use their time and resources. Do better for Iowa, vote NO.
02-27-2025
Jenny Goodman []
CON
Removing basic protections for Iowa citizens is legislating discrimination. Please ask yourself, "Is this what your political party believes Iowans value? Is this your partys identity?" As a woman myself, you are not addressing any safety issues women in Iowa face so please don't pretend to do so. But this bill causes clear and direct pain to me and my family. By voting "no", you will show voters that you recognize that legislated discrimination is not what you were sent to the Capitol to accomplish. Look to the brave Iowan transgender community today and decide that you and the State of Iowa are capable of being as brave by proudly voting "no."
02-27-2025
Shawn Swaner [None]
CON
Legislators and fellow citizens,I only know one transgender person, J. She and I work together. I knew her before her transition and it is clear that J. is now living her best life, walking with grace and dignity through an often cruel world.When I read the drafts of SF 418 and HSB 242 I see added cruelty to our world, without reason. I see an Iowa where J. is less safe and less protected.For example, Section 8 through 25 of the Senate draft, and the corresponding sections of the House version have a striking pattern of removing gender identity from a list of longestablished protected classes. The question I pose to each of you is WHY DO THIS? As Americans, we have long held a need to oppose discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, and sex. The reason we have held these moral values codified in law is that we, as a society, have proven unable to meet that moral obligation without a legal backstop. In other words, the very provisions you seed to amend make us a better and safer society.By removing gender identity from these clauses we open the door to cruel and discriminatory behavior in Iowa because what was once, for a short time, prohibited now becomes implicitly sanctioned.Laws shape behavior, and I ask you to not weaken laws that protect my J. and other transgender Iowans. Someday we may live in a world where protections for race, creed, color, sex, and gender identity are not needed in our laws. But Iowa in 2025 is not yet such a place.Thank you,Shawn SwanerWaukee, Iowa
02-27-2025
Jan Bradley [Constituent of Iowa]
CON
I am adamantly opposed to the bill HF 583. This is a very cruel and immoral bill and will hurt a small vulnerable population! Please do not put Iowa in international headline for its cruelty!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Cassie Mundorf [n/a]
CON
Civil rights are fundamental human rights, and every individual deserves protection of those rights. I urge you to reject SF418. If this bill is passed, Iowa would become the FIRST state in the U.S. to strip protections from a minority group, which is not a distinction we should be seeking.Transgender people already face disproportionate levels of discrimination, harassment, and violence. By removing gender identity from protected classes, lawmakers are making these individuals even more vulnerable to job loss, housing instability, denial of medical care, and more. This policy is unjust and harmful, and it should be rejected. Removing protections for transgender individuals goes against the principles of equality and human rights. It not only increases the vulnerability of this already marginalized group but also has negative consequences for the broader community and economy. This policy will only create more division and hardship, and it is not the path Iowa should take. We must stand for inclusivity and justice by rejecting this harmful bill.
02-27-2025
Mary O'Brien []
CON
Stop the continued legislation of hate.
02-27-2025
Maggie Rolow []
CON
I am genuinely curious what positive outcomes the republicans hope to achieve by stripping away civil protections of a group? If we were to replace transgender individuals in this scenario with any member of an organized religion, there would be outrage from the right EVEN THOUGH the right continues to bring religion into schools, government, and areas where the separation of church and state should but doesnt exist. This bill is gross, its embarrassing, and its going to cause many issues for people in our community who need protecting. If its a fact of whether or not trans individuals should even exist, please reach out to the scientific community for studies that have been done. Ive never been more embarrassed to be an Iowan.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Catholic Church]
CON
02-27-2025
Zack DP []
CON
I am a 20yearold transgender man. I began my transition five years ago after spending five years in the closet. I have been on testosterone for two and a half years and am currently five months postop from top surgery.Protections against discrimination in employment, education, and housing have allowed me to live authentically and without fear. Gender dysphoria is already a daily strugglethis bill would only make life harder by stripping away basic rights and dignity.I know firsthand that no matter how much I tried to ignore or suppress my identity, it never went away. The five years I spent in the closet did more harm than goodI was constantly angry, dependent on others, and unable to build confidence. But once I was able to live as my true self, I finally saw the value of life. Now that Ive experienced that freedom, I fear for those still trapped in the darkness I once was.You cant buy back time. You will never be as young as you were a second ago. The only choice we have is to make the most of this momentand that means allowing trans people to live in peace.Many of the voices you hear today are not just speaking out of anger or frustrationthey are cries for humanity and help. If you have even a shred of either, I urge you to reject this bill.
02-27-2025
Marnie Strate [None]
CON
Please do not pass this bill. Transgender Iowans deserve the same civil rights protections afforded to anyone else. They are our friends, our neighbors, our family. This bill will only cause harm to an already vulnerable population and pave the way for more Iowans to be stripped of their basic rights.
02-27-2025
Shirley Harris []
CON
I OPPOSE HF583.Please vote AGAINST this bill which erases the rights of transgender individuals, and thus wrongly tries to ERASE a specific group of PERSONS. All persons have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. The inclusion of the current wording in civil rights law is necessary to protect groups that have been subject to bullying and vicious attacks.
02-27-2025
Katherine Young []
CON
This bill is antiAmerican, it goes against our fundamental ideals as a democracy. There is NO good reason to take away basic civil rights from any group of people. Im ashamed of our legislators and Im ashamed of Iowa for attempting it.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I stand with trans people and their Civil Rights. Stripping them of those rights is Unconstitutional. Trans people cause no harm.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Avinliegh McBurney []
CON
Trans people have lived for decades with their chosen gender on their government documents. There has been no issues from it. They don't do it to "trick" anyone, rather they use it to live more convenient lives. In a world where trans people of all ages receive so much hate and vitriol for things outside their control. If we give them a marker so that everyone who ids them know they're trans, from the police to an average bartender, it could only lead to more harm to this very vulnerable group. Please bear with me, as I know people like to deny that trans people are in any danger as long as they follow laws about their identity. Unfortunately this is not the case. In July of 2022 Noah Ruiz, a transman aka someone who started as a female and transitioned to a male, used the women's bathroom. He was told to by the ranger of the park he was in at the time. A perfectly reasonable citizen who did what he was instructed to by an authority figure. An action that in any civilized society should be rewarded. This man proceeded to be jumped for using what he was told was the correct bathroom. People confronted him assuming he was a cisman who was pretending to be trans to go into the women's bathroom. He was viscously beat by multiple men only for police to intervene. Stories like this happen all the time, and are getting more common as people manipulate people's fears for votes and political power. Unfortunate people, who are otherwise good, become so afraid of a group of strangers that it leads to acts of violence such as this. The subject of sex only has merit in the medical world, and it's none of anyone's business what goes on between someone and their doctor. I don't gain anything knowing what chromosomes are in the DNA of a person, and neither does anyone else outside of the medical world. To introduce such a bill like this is to introduce unnecessary cruelty in people's lives. This might be a job to a lot of politicians, but this is real life for the people they claim to represent. No one should have to live in fear of the people around them.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I vehemently oppose stripping transgender Iowans of protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This bill is dangerous and could easily be misinterpreted. This bill sets a dangerous precedent, and is harmful for all Iowans in the long run. Remember, our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.
02-27-2025
Renate Bernstein []
CON
02-27-2025
Kimberly Greiner []
CON
Please vote NO on HF 583 and protect the citizens of Iowa.This bill is not Iowa Nice and no one is asking for this.We have real problems that deserve your attention.Such as adequate school fundingShortage of doctors and healthcare providers Shortage of mental health professionals Shortage of affordable housingWater quality issuesTransparency and Independence in auditing state spendingThank you.Kim GreinerPlease
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Im praying that this doesnt happen. It would be so hurtful. We, all the people in Iowa, need to show more love. It should not be up to governing people to tell us how to live our life because we are each our own unique individual and only One will judge each of us.
02-27-2025
Manda Mattoon []
CON
Are you are willing to give up the same protections and rights for yourself and your loved ones? Voting to strip others of their rights is immoral and disgusting, and you will be on the wrong side of history for your bigotry and hateful actions if you vote for this bill. Not to mention the slippery slope that will be opened making it easier to strip others of the rights every one should be afforded. It is offensive to use "protection" or "safety" to relieve your cognitive dissonance or justify your unethical behavior. If you wanted to protect women and children from sexual predators you would hold them accountable for their actions, not reward them with positions of power while attacking marginalized groups. There has never been and will never be a world without transgender people, that is a fact. Denying them rights and protection that others have does not negate their existence, it is just cruel and an abuse of power of the privileged.
02-27-2025
Melody Carroll []
CON
Vote Con HF583No changes regarding Human RightsRemember you work for the entire State not just a few, you must represent everyone equally at all times.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-27-2025
Sayuri Hemann []
CON
Do not strip away basic human rights from trans communtity.
02-27-2025
Julie Lawrence []
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Peggy Willis [United Methodist Church member]
CON
Subject: Oppose the Bill Removing Gender Identity from the Civil Rights ActDear Iowa Legislators,I am deeply disheartened by the introduction of the bill that seeks to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This bill represents a step backward in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. Removing protections for gender identity from the Civil Rights Act only serves to promote discrimination and further marginalize an already vulnerable group of individuals.What will be next on the agenda to remove? Are we going to continue dismantling protections for people who already face significant challenges in their daily lives? This bill does not promote fairness or equalityit promotes division and intolerance.It is critical that we, as a society, protect and uplift one another, regardless of gender identity. People should mind their own business and allow others to live freely and authentically without fear of discrimination. I urge you to vote against this bill and stand in support of all Iowans, regardless of their gender identity.Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,Peggy Willis
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Kathleen Kropp [Parenthood ]
CON
I strongly oppose this bill and firmly support trans rights. Trans rights are human rights and we need to end the suicide epidemic that this is causing. Love one another as I have loved you Jesus Christ said himself.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
This bill is nothing, but harmful. It would set a precedent to easily discriminate and strip rights away from other minority groups.
02-27-2025
Sarah Fillius [self]
CON
My name is Sarah Fillius. I am female, a taxpayer and mom of a transgender child. I implore you to reject HF 583, the bill that removes basic protections for transgender Iowans. This bill is not a solution. It discriminately harms marginalized Iowans.Transgender people are our children, friends, neighbors, students, family and coworkers. Protect them from discrimination to earn a living, have a place to live, and being served by businesses or government offices. Iowans deserve their civil rights; my child deserves their civil rights. Urgently vote no.
02-27-2025
Kirsten Plowman []
CON
I am firmly AGAINST this bill moving forward. Removing the rights of our transgender and nonbinary fellow citizens is not something Iowans should be at the forefront of. We should be fighting for greater inclusivity.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am a lifelong Iowan, social worker, former educator and parent. I have seen first hand the way that exclusionary legislation harms individuals and families, and how this particular bill is creating fear and division in our state. There is no reason to strip rights away that already exist. Please oppose this bill that will contribute to reduced quality of life, decreased freedom, and injured morality in our state. As Civil Rights Leader Fannie Lou Hamer said, Nobody's free until everybody's free. Reducing certain peoples rights and freedoms takes us back to an unconscionable time in our past. Do not be on the wrong side of history and vote against this discriminatory legislation.
02-27-2025
HSB 242 []
CON
Oppose HSB 242. Transgender people exist and always will. Lets love one another as Jesus taught us and stop the hate. Removing transgenders from Iowa code wont eliminate them, they will always exist. Love one another and stop legislating hate.
02-27-2025
Avis Taylor []
CON
I strongly urge you to vote NO on this bill. The LGBTQ+ citizens deserve the same respect and civil rights protections that all human beings deserve!Please do not pass this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Simon Clark [N/A]
CON
I was once proud to be an Iowan. I was a child when the IA Civil Rights Act was passed, and I wasnt even aware of what it meant. As I got older I saw states around ours slowly starting to get with the program, getting more and more accepting. We were one of the first states to pass this type of legislation, making us one of the most accepting states in America. I remember reading articles upon articles about how Des Moines is the new best city to live in or Young people are flocking to Iowa. Now I see friends and family figuring out how to flee the state because of this bill. People are scared to live here, and that is not what Iowa is about. We were Iowa Nice and we loved our neighbors no matter their race, gender, sexuality or creed. Stripping the rights of trans folks is only the first step in an extremely slippery slope towards a horrific end of Iowa Nice and towards a Hellish Iowa. DO NOT PASS THIS BILL.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Laura Bergus [Astraea Legal LLC]
CON
The role of government is to protect its people. Removing protections is wrong. Iowa must stand for all of us being able to live without fear of discrimination for our true identity. Vote against this bill.
02-27-2025
Olivia Howe-Espinosa []
CON
Every Iowan has the right to be protected from discrimination. Legislation and government is meant to support freedoms and improve lives, not strip citizens of civil rights.
02-27-2025
Laura Herring [NA]
PRO
My son started his transition when he was in 5 th grade in 2013 elementary school. When to middle school and was able to use a price bathroom and change for gym at a different time for his protection . The teachers and principal was understanding and supportive. If we take this safety away from our children we will the rise of suicide and Heinous act against transgender people. Im sad to see how far we came is now a fight again for rights that we the people deserve !
02-27-2025
Lindsey Pruett-Hornbaker [Community Member]
CON
History does not remember fondly the stripping of rights of vulnerable people. This bill falls in line with a clear political agenda, but reading these comments and hearing the conversations in our Iowa communities it is extremely and concretely apparent that it does not fall in line with the needs, wishes, or vision for Iowa of the majority of Iowans. As a woman and a parent, I am completely unconcerned and baffled by the idea that trans people and trans protections make our community less safe in any way on the other hand, I am wildly concerned that we are stripping rights from those in our community who need the explicit protection in our civil rights code the most. As our representatives, I ask you to carefully and perhaps even prayerfully consider why if your constituents are overwhelmingly saying no you would continue to vote yes? Please hear us and respect our collective concern that this bill is cruel, harmful, and unnecessary. It is not representative of who we want to be or what we deserve from our laws and lawmakers in Iowa.
02-27-2025
shantayemariah
CON
A toilet is a toilet. It has no gender. Maybe you should just hold it and use the one in your home. If you're so worried about who's in you're stall next to you. A public restroom isn't for you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. By passing this bill, we set our state back 100 years. According to many reputable studies, trans people are four times more likely to be assaulted than cisgendered people. This bill is not about making women safe, it is about putting trans people in harms way. As a cisgendered woman myself, I have never once worried about the genitals of someone else in the restroom with me. As a cisgendered woman with many trans people in her life, I worry every day about their safety, due to bigots and the government that is emboldening them. I am a teacher and several of my students are questioning their gender identity passing this bill is going to impact their lives negatively, to the point they may hurt or kill themselves. Arent republicans the party of protecting children? Why dont these kids matter to you? If this bill is passed, there will be blood on your hands
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-27-2025
Nora Nieto []
CON
This bills only purpose is to erase trans lives. According to the Trevor Project, AntiTransgender laws cause up to a 72% increase in suicide attempts by transgender people. Those lives that will be taken because of this bill are on the hands of everyone who helped write it and approve it. I have a trans friend as well. Him and his mom were seriously thinking about moving to Canada because they were so afraid of what the Trump Administration would do to trans people. Now, their fears have been realized at the state level. This bill would permit discrimination based on gender identity, ultimately hurting trans people not only in the workforce, but in their everyday lives. If this bill is passed, a part of American democracy will die. Is this not the land of the free? So then why are we trying to oppress people who have done nothing wrong except express their true identity?
02-27-2025
Kimberlee Sears []
CON
Please keep our current civil rights laws in place. Vote NO on this bill.Thank you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [US Citizen]
CON
I am not for this bill. Appears like a personal agenda and not wanting to protect the citizens. People are People.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
I am shocked that this bill is being seriously considered. America has been expanding rights for its citizens over time, and that's a good thing. This bill is a major setback to that progress.My child happens to be nonbinary, using they/them pronouns. That is their gender identity not their sex, this bill seems to not allow that important distinction. This bill will allow discrimination against my child for something about the way they were born. We moved to Iowa to be close to family. I would love to stay in Iowa, and have my kids enjoy it here as I do, but if this bill passes, why would my child want to stay in or return to this state?I saw a quote recently that came to mind here, "A person's existence can't be against another's beliefs, that is called bigotry."
02-27-2025
Cheltzie Miller-Bailey [N/A]
CON
My name is Cheltzie millerBailey and I was born and raised in Des Moines and have chosen to settle here as an adult. I am on the board of One Iowa and previously led the Center of LGBTQIA+ Student Success at Iowa state university, before laws out of this same statehouse forced its closure last fall. I am also soon to be married to my fianc who is trans nonbinary. Im here to testify on behalf of my family, friends, and communities of color. Specifically black trans woman who already are and will be even more disproportionally impacted by the violence that will come if this law is passed.As a lifelong Iowan, I perhaps have a unique perspective on what the roll back of civil rights looks like, as a person whos generational lineage had to fight to earn and protect my right to fair and equal access to education, healthcare, facility usage and more. Weve already heard this week that trans folks are dangerous in spaces like bathrooms, and I can think of a time not too long ago where that same thing was said about Black people like me. That we couldnt use bathrooms, locker rooms, or access fair healthcare or own land because of what is also a biological difference.The trans and gender diverse people I know and love are not a medical or biological anomaly as Republicans would like us to believe. They are educators, doctors, lawyers, small business owners, artists and more. Even more importantly, they are children, siblings, parents, spouses, friendsand simply humans. Iowans. Citizens. They are just like us: people who deserve care, understanding, respect, and civil rights against discrimination. The roll back of protecting gender identity as outlined in HF 283will not protect us, similar to how it didnt protect my ancestors. As they say, history will repeat itself unless we make intentional dedicated efforts to prevent that from happening. I urge you to vote no on HF 283 to ensure all Iowans maintain their safety and respect.
02-27-2025
Cheryl Neyens []
CON
Prejudice and discrimination must be stopped! These laws are designed by a man who knows nothing about what hes trying to do or the people he is doing it to.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [-]
CON
I am a resident of Iowa, and this bill makes me sick. It would make Iowa the first state to strip a class of people of their rights. This is not a first to be proud of. Please try to remember that trans people are PEOPLE and that your actions today will hurt real Iowan residents and our communities.I have a trans sisterinlaw. I am terrified that I will lose her because of this bill. Whether it be from her deciding to move away from me to another state where she is recognized as a person with rights, or if it will be to suicide because of the additional discrimination she will face because of your action to pass this bill. She is a veteran. She signed up to fight and die for this country, and this is how you treat her. Shameful.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Rev Jen Hibben []
CON
This cruel and immoral bill seeks to make Iowa the first and worst state to remove rights from its citizens. The only reasoning behind it the governor and legislators transphobia, all other excuses for this bills could be addressed in ways that dont create larger issues for our state. As a social worker and pastor, Im confident that the passage of this bill well have continued negative effects on ALL Iowans. It will increase needs for medical and mental healthcare (which our governor has also positioned us poorly for), it will continue to cause young adults to leave our state taking with them talents and resources desperately need. It will create further need for more and new organizations to support trans folks who will be unfairly discriminated against rather than developing ones to address issues that actually affect the majority of Iowans. As a lifelong Iowans I am disappointed and deeply saddened that among other things like our plummeting education and care for rural communities, legislators are wasting time making life harder for people who just want to live and contribute to this state as the people they were created to be. Please focus on issues that actually can have a positive effect and stop being bullies to the most vulnerable among us. Please vote no to this bill and encourage colleagues to do the same.
02-27-2025
Casey Reints [self]
CON
I oppose this bill. What a horrible idea to become the first state in the country to take away civil rights protections. Do better.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
I'm writing to you today to implore you to oppose the passage of SF 418.This legislation isn't about protecting our children or our women. It is a calculated attack of all females and LGBTQ+ Iowans. This bill sets a terrifying precedent in making civil rights optional for any of us who are not white, Christian males in its attempt to eradicate queer and trans people who have always and will always exist andIt isn't about trans athletes who want to play a high school sport. It isn't about gender theory being taught in schools. It isn't about "inappropriate books". It is not about protecting woen and children from a predator that does not exist. Since 2007, when gender and orientation were added to civil rights in Iowa, there has not been one documented attack or incident where a non trans person was attacked or harmed by a trans person. There are too many documented attacks on trans individuals from non trans people. Voting for this bill is paramount to adding your name as a perpetratorto a hate crime against women, children, and LGBTQ+ Iowans.This legislation will be harmful. We will see a diminished quality of life for all Iowans, for how can you feel you have a right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", as stated in our constitution as a fundamental right all Americans should have, when your state legislators are actively moving to these very things from your neighbors, your friends, and your family. If we purposely move to revoke the identity and ability to live as yourself from some of us, how long until it is all of us who are oppressed?We know, statistically, something as simple as using someones correct pronouns can literally save their life. We have so many in our state who are struggling with discrimination for not being wealthy, or white, or male, or Christian, or healthy; why do we need to make life harder for anyone when it is within our means to treat others with dignity and respect and protect those who really need protection.People will be afraid to ask for help out of fear that they may be ostracized. They will be targeted even more than they are now with verbal and physical violence. We will see arise in suicides from Iowans who feel trapped and diminished and hate crimes by those who feel emboldened to act on their insecurities and fear because they are backed by our government in saying "You are invisible" so they fear no repercussions.The decrease in trans and queer people you will see will be because they are dead, not because they disappear when you narrowly define gender or because children are taught that others can be different and still deserve respectIf you are reading this and think to yourself, "I am helping to keep woman and children safe", please think about how sexual predators infantilize or groom woman and children to make them more insulated and vulnerable to believe they cannot fight back or they deserve to be coddled and treated as less than; then think about how this bill is to "protect" women and children, not men or all Iowans, from non existent attacks by a trans person.Secondly, if you think "nobody I know is queer or trans", I want you to know that you are wrong: you know somebody they are just too afraid to tell you.You have the opportunity to oppose this bill and to truly stand for human rights for us all. Starting to deny one demographic sets the precedent to take rights from anyone who is other and that could be you or someone you love. This is not about protecting women and children. We cannot say we are protecting Iowa's women and children with this bill while also taking away things like gender affirming care, SNAP, Medicaid, as well as threatening schools and libraries with funding loss if they don't discriminate or comply. This is propaganda against queer people. This is an attempt to isolate and control women and children. This is an attempt to undermine basic rights of all Iowans.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
VOTE NO. I can't even believe this is up for consideration.
02-27-2025
Valerie Findley []
CON
The Iowa official motto asserts: Our liberties we prize, our Rights we will maintain. With this bill, the state negates every word of that. The government, by and for the people, should always strive to expand, maintain and protect the life, liberty and rights of its citizens. I have lived in Iowa for 68 years and witnessed our state devolve to this low point of proposing to strikie subset of its populace from civil rights protections. How is this upholding liberty and freedom. I am saddened, sickened and ashamed.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [MSCC]
CON
Suicide prevention is gender affirming care and equality. Without this, suicide rates will drastically increase, putting Iowa in even more of a horrible state in regards to mental health.
02-27-2025
Heather Crowder [Resident ]
CON
How dare you even bring by into consideration taking away civil rights for any Iowan! Shame on you and this discriminatory bill! This is not being Iowa Nice!
02-27-2025
Mariellen Krischel [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-27-2025
Tina Schmidt []
CON
ALL Iowans have a right to basic civil liberties, not just those who align with what a few people deem as "acceptable". Stop wasting time on this and focus on real issues, like access to healthcare in our state.
02-27-2025
Jan Warwick [Progressive iowa]
CON
Why are we not wanting to help everyone integrate into our State together? Please don't allow people to discriminate.
02-27-2025
Jodee Ross [Self]
CON
This is unconstitutional, unnecessary, and harmful. Let them live their lives the way they want!
02-27-2025
Tyler Creed []
CON
Disgusting. Absolutely horrible. Can't believe the state whose motto is "our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain" is even considering this act.
02-27-2025
Amy Seidelman []
CON
This bill is harmful and makes it legal to discriminate. Maintaining the current protections is better for all Iowans.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not support HF 583. This threatens a vulnerable community including children. All people should be protected under civil rights protections.
02-27-2025
Peg Mullen []
CON
I cannot believe I live in a state where this is even an issue! No one should have toworry about being fired,denied housing oreducationalopportunities. Riskingone groups civil rights isa risk to everyone's civilrights. The "mere"proposal of such a billincreases depression,fear, and suicidal ideationin an already vulnerabletrans population." Jesus tells us to love everyone MANY times in the Bible! Please deny this bill! For the sake of our future kids! They are our future! Stand up for ALL human beings!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Why does someone who wants to change their gender affect you? It shouldnt matter what they decide to do with their lifes and we should love them for who they want to be.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
All trans people want is to live a life without hate. Nobody is taking taxpayer money for sex change operations like you all are fear mongering. No child is having sex change operations. The only thing trans kids are doing is wishing to use correct pronouns and dress accordingly. Nobody is sneaking into womens bathrooms unless its ACTUAL MEN. You cannot discriminate against an entire class of people which is exactly what this bill does. This bill will also incite a wave of violence against these people and children that is wholly unnecessary. Stop trying to divide us based on your make believe Christian values and your own hate. Pretty sure Christ himself wouldnt do this so what gives you that right???
02-27-2025
Sarah Parsons []
CON
Please do no strip rights away from our friends, neighbors and fellow Iowans. Our state has a rich history of protecting civil rights and liberties please dont end that strong tradition now. History does not look kindly on those who strip rights from other people in our communities.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Claire Robinson [Self ]
CON
This bill will hurt Iowans.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Please dont proceed with this bill. Let them keep their rights as currently listed! Right now it is gender but what rights are next? At some point the people of Iowa wanted these rights, please let them be. There are more important items you all can be working on
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please do NOT PASS HF 583.
02-27-2025
Sara Johansen [ ]
CON
I'm writing to you to ask you to reject HF583 (formerly HSB 242) tomorrow. Please vote no. Not only is this extremely damaging to the transgender community in Iowa (which will not go away, no matter what laws are passed), but it also sets an incredibly dangerous precedent for other marginalized groups in this state. The Iowa State motto is, Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. HSB242 goes directly against the state motto. Transgender people across our state are friends, neighbors, coworkers and family members. It is disgraceful to do anything but reject removing them from the Iowa Civil Rights Acts.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Presently, out of state, as I learned about this legislation which will strip transgender persons from rights granted by our legislature nearly 20 years ago. I am deeply saddened. When I moved to this wonderful state with my family three decades ago, I was so proud of the open, accepting mentality of the legislators and constituents, my fellow coworkers and community friends. It felt like such a place where your neighbors regardless of their race sexual identity, religion, Ethnicity, country of origin were ALL valued as Midwesterners. And I was so proud. But today, I no longer feel our legislators are God loving, focused on the wellbeing of all the constituents, concerned for every man or woman or child, but having a self absorbed, focus towards fiscal efficiency, and a restrictive elite platform, forgetting the individual nature of Gods presence in each and every creature living within our state each one whose value and whose constitutional and God given rights should be defended. Please ponder deeply the votes you are choosing to cast.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Allowing discrimination in any kind is unacceptable. This is not humanity. This is not Iowa Nice. Allowing discrimination like this will do untold harm to our trans community (who are HUMANS) and that will result in harm to everyone. Im not interested in leading the nation in hate. Thats not why I moved to Iowa. Do your job and represent your constituents. This is not what Iowans want.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose any bill that seeks to remove protections for transgender individuals under civil rights laws. The fundamental principle of civil rights is to ensure equal treatment and protection for all people, regardless of their gender identity. Transgender people, like everyone else, deserve to live freely, without fear of discrimination or violence, and to have access to the same rights and opportunities as anyone else.This bill is a step backward in our pursuit of equality and fairness. It not only undermines the dignity of transgender people but also sends a harmful message that certain individuals are less worthy of respect and protection under the law. Transgender people are our neighbors, family members, and friends. Denying them protection is an affront to our shared values of justice, compassion, and equality.We must continue to build a society where everyone is seen, heard, and valuedno exceptions. I urge lawmakers to stand against this bill and prioritize inclusion, respect, and the rights of all people.
02-27-2025
Bryce dos Anjos []
CON
Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Passing this bill would legalize discrimination against a marginalized and important group of Iowans. Please do not make our state hypocritical by allowing HF583 to pass, history will look back on us with such shame if we set this precedent for discrimination. Please focus your efforts as legislators on things that will help Iowans live healthier and safer lives, not removing human rights!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Urbandale ]
CON
These are human beings, neighbors and friends we are talking about. The rights of ALL Iowans should be protected. Do NOT take away civil rights for LGBTQ+ people.
02-27-2025
Margaret Luetkehans []
CON
We should not be removing civil rights protections from marginalized Iowans. Trans people are people. People who do not fit into traditional gender norms are also people. All Iowans should be represented and their rights respected.
02-27-2025
Kelli Noveshen []
CON
02-27-2025
Cecilia E []
CON
I am heartbroken to hear that this bill even exists; and when I imagine the consequences of the bill if it is becomes law, it brings tears to my eyes. I am incredibly sad.Gender identity is part of civil rights and should not be removed. It leaves an already vulnerable portion of our community even more vulnerable and that is the opposite of what a Civil Rights Act should do. It should protect everyones rights and create a safe environment for all Iowans.My younger sister came out to our family as a transwoman a couple years ago. Coming from a conservative/religious/Asian/2nd gen immigrant background, she has not had an easy journey mentally and socially. With this bill, I am more afraid for her and worry on what would happen if her rights are stripped. Will she be successfully employed, or will she be fired without reason because people consider her other and they are uncomfortable? Will she suffer more mentally/emotionally because she is unable to exist as herself and instead forced to exist as someone dictates? If removed, how does Iowa ensure the trans community are being treated equally and with dignity just like everyone else?I am a proud Iowan: I grew up in Davenport/QC and chose to live in Des Moines postgrad & raise my family here, but hearing that Iowa could be the first State to strip gender identity from the Civil Rights Act compared to when Iowa was one of the first to legalize samesex marriage in 2009, I am truly ashamed and disappointed if this is how Iowa wants to be known & remembered.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Concerned citizen]
CON
Hate and discrimination is running rampant in our society today. Removing protections from any vulnerable class of citizens is wrong. Do not let this pass. Do not open the door to allow harm to come to our citizens.
02-27-2025
Anonymous
CON
everyone deserves equal rights. There should not be any bill restricting rights of anyone.
02-27-2025
T Hemminger [WMTAAHSGFYS]
CON
As a birth right Iowan I could not be happier that I no longer live in the state. What a stupid joke this state has become! At least the state government is telling everyone who they are! Hateful and less Christian every single day. Iowa used to stand for education and inclusion. Now it stands for stupidity and hate. What a god awful bill.
02-27-2025
Ashley Rullestad []
CON
Trans rights are civil rights. Vote no.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Please get information from medical professionals with regards to this issue.n it is clear the GOP doesnt have a scientific grasp on this topic. Not too surprising there.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [WCP]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Trans people have always existed, whether that is something our government acknowledges or not. Trans people deserve to be treated fairly. They deserve to live their lives.Truly, at the end of the day, how does a trans person just existing and having rights negatively impact another person? How does it impact your day to day life? The answer is it doesnt. Trans people living in their truth does nothing to upset or disturb you. You are not required to understand them, but since they are members of your state, you are required to accept them.
02-27-2025
Ben Peters []
CON
02-27-2025
Amanda Bickal []
CON
02-27-2025
Kari Schulte [parent]
CON
02-27-2025
Nora Tobin [Concerned citizen ]
CON
I urge you to oppose HF853. This bill's removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act endangers the civil and human rights of all Iowans. It strips away vital protections and legalizes discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations for people who are or are suspected to be transgender. Codifying this discrimination into law, will increase challenges faced by a marginalized population that already experiences significantly higher rates of mental health struggles, bullying, and even violence. Whether our families directly experience an effect or not, we will experience consequences. This bill contributes to creating a culture in Iowa that is the antithesis of our values of being a welcoming land and a place of opportunity. Recruitment will be more difficult for businesses to get quality candidates to work, live, and raise families in our state creating a disincentive to corporations to function in Iowa. Focus instead on ways to enhance our state, build vibrant rural communities, strengthen the public education system and bolster our economy. This bill is a dangerous distraction that will leave us all worse off.
02-27-2025
Nate []
CON
We cannot keep prioritizing this "culture war" against a small minority of Americans while millions of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck or dying in our streets. Where is the Iowa legislature to help those in poverty, those with food insecurity, those who need help. The rights of all Iowans must be protected. Please stop with the culture war nonsense and start working on actual legislation.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Tyler Stricker [NA]
CON
This bill is an egregious step backwards. The state of Iowa was known for being at the forefront on these issues and making sure it's citizens have the protections needed to pursue their own happiness. There are no harms from ensuring the rights to our citizens. I urge you to vote this horrendous bill down. You do not want the history books to tell the story of how you ripped rights from your citizens.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I firmly oppose this attempt to limit civil rights, especially for already marginalized populations. I see absolutely no positives to this measure. All that is possibly gained is a group imposing its ideology on others. We are all equal, and deserve to be treated equally and fairly. Please stand up for, if we dont where does it end? Are women next? Or physically disabled? Or mentally challenged? Who decides? WE decide by saying this is not what Iowa should be known for.
02-27-2025
Susan [none]
CON
This is a horrible bill and should not pass. Legislating discrimination is NOT what the majority of Iowans Want! Listen to your constituents!
02-27-2025
Cassie Mayrose [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Legislating against and villainizing 0.3% of the population is the definition of discrimination and shows why it was so important for Iowa to add these protections in the first place. This bill will not help women, instead it will cause all masculine presenting women (both cis and trans) to face unnecessary scrutiny based on appearances. I've heard a lot that this is "common sense", but there's no such thing in science. Biology is complicated and is constantly surprising us. Please do what is right for all Iowans and do not let this pass.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Please vote no. A knee jerk reaction to protect the Bathroom Bill by striking "gender identity" from all parts of the civil rights code makes no sense. Protect ALL Iowans access to discriminationfree housing, lending, and financial opportunities. The Iowan public wants nothing to do with a bill that strikes people from our civil rights. Listen to the overwhelming opposition to this bill and vote NO. Figure out a better path forwardthis is bill isn't it.
02-27-2025
Jennifer Anderson []
CON
I am a Transgender Iowan in opposition to HSB 242/House File 583, which seeks to strip civil rights protections for transgender individuals in our state.This bill is not just a policy decision; it is a statement about what kind of community we aspire to be. Iowa has long been a place known for its welcoming spirit, where people can feel safe and supported regardless of who they are. Passing legislation that targets transgender people undermines that legacy and sends a chilling message... not just to those directly affected but to everyone considering Iowa as a place to live, study, or work.I ask you to think about the longterm consequences of this bill. What message are we sending to the talented students, skilled professionals, and families who might choose to call Iowa home? Are we truly representing the values of kindness, fairness, and respect that Iowans hold dear?The opposition to this bill is growing, and for good reason. More and more Iowans are realizing that discriminating against a marginalized group does not align with our shared values or benefit our state. History has shown that laws rooted in fear and prejudice are eventually met with regret and repudiation. We have the opportunity now to be on the right side of history and to affirm that Iowa stands for dignity and equality for all its residents.As lawmakers, you face the critical task of deciding how best to serve the people of this state. Instead of attacking the rights of transgender Iowans, I urge you to focus on the pressing issues that impact all of us examples of which include but are not limited to: repairing our aging infrastructure, helping our farmers, addressing the high cancer rates plaguing our communities, and strengthening resources for those in need. It's time to focus on things that make Iowans want to stay here and also attract new people That want to come to the state to call Iowa home, like I have. For me, as a transgender person, this issue is deeply personal. It is painful to see my own state, which I love and have called home for almost 10 years, propose laws that would marginalize me rather than uplift us all. I ask you to reject this harmful legislation and to work toward policies that reflect the inclusive and compassionate spirit of Iowa. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.' By denying civil rights to any group, we erode the foundation of equality and fairness that protects us all. Let us choose justice, compassion, and the betterment of all Iowans over fear and division. Thank you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to express my strong and unwavering opposition to HF583 currently being considered by the Iowa legislature. I am adamantly opposed to this legislation. Sexual identity and/or sexual orientation do not, in any capacity, diminish the humanness of individuals. Our government is charged with protecting its citizens, and this includes LGBTQ+ individuals.This bill not only undermines fundamental human rights but also fosters an environment of exclusion and discrimination. Our communities thrive when all individuals feel safe, valued, and supported. By targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, this legislation threatens the wellbeing of our neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones, many of whom already face disproportionate levels of stigma and mental health challenges.Iowa has a proud history of standing up for civil rights and equality. I urge you to reject this harmful legislation and instead focus on policies that promote inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all Iowans. Let us lead with compassion and uphold the values of equality and justice that our state and nation strive to embody.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [St. Paul's United Methodist Church]
CON
All people are of sacred worth and certain basic human rights are due to everyone, we are committed to supporting the equal rights, liberties, and protections of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We should do all in our power to combat unjust treatment and to promote equal rights and protections for all.
02-27-2025
Jean Kaul-Brown [Iowa Citizen]
CON
I'm a concerned Iowan. This is a cruel and dangerous bill that is being fasttracked (9:30 in the morning when many people are working) so fewer Iowans are aware and can offer their feedback and concern. This bill is cruel and unnecessary, and would make Iowa the ONLY state in the union that has removed civil rights protection for a group of people after they have been enshrined into law. Pretty much the opposite of Iowa Nice, don't you think.Say No to this bill that would be dangerous, cruel and make Iowa a less welcoming place.It also sets a dangerous precedent. If these civil rights can be removed from Iowans, who is next?
02-27-2025
Ellen Carman []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill as it is a removal of civil rights for transgender people. The change in language and removal of terms in this bill is explicitly saying that transgender people will not be protected against discrimination in this state. That is not only unconstitutional, it is unconscionable. If passed, this bill result in suffering that will go far beyond an individual group of people and impact the states economy (families will leave, folks wont want to move to Iowa) and negatively impact mental and physical wellbeing of Iowans. It is morally reprehensible to erase an entire group of people from state protections. Please oppose this bill to protect basic civil rights for all people in our state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NONE]
CON
CON
02-27-2025
Barrie M Tritle []
CON
At the heart of being an Iowan is a deep respect for the rights and liberty of each person. This bill is antithetical to who we are as Iowans and is not respectful nor helpful to fulfilling our states historical pursuit of liberty for all. Any representative who chooses to vote for this bill chooses to turn back the pages of history and chooses a time of imposing pain and hate on a minority out of fear. I ask you all to choose standing for the rights of all and the liberty of all as Iowans have for over two centuries, Vote no on this bill. Thankyou.
02-27-2025
Chris H. []
CON
I am deeply unsettled by this bill and the precedent that it will set. People who identify as trans make up less than .5% of Iowas population, yet the government seems to think that these individuals are corrupting children and making our public spaces unsafe. That is demonstrably false. As a Christian, it hurts my heart to see politicians who profess to follow Jesus treat trans men and women as less than and unnatural. We are called to love our neighbor as ourself, to be a light to this world. This bill represents the antithesis of this mission.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
I urge you to oppose HF 583. This bill's removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act endangers the civil and human rights of all Iowans. It strips away vital protections and legalizes discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations for people who are or are suspected to be transgender. Codifying this discrimination into law will increase challenges faced by a marginalized population that already experiences significantly higher rates of mental health struggles, bullying, and even violence. This bill is wrong for our state, wrong for our communities, wrong for our childrens futures whatever their assigned sex at birth or future identity may be. Vote no.
02-27-2025
Angela West [N/a]
CON
VOTE NO! Taking rights away from a marginalized group, or any group, goes against everything weve been taught about being kind and accepting! Trans people or anyone from the LGBTQ+ community are not a threat to anyones wellbeing. What is a concern are those who wish to erase anyone that isnt like them. For those who have voiced opinions based on isolated incidents of indecency, then those can be addressed through other avenues. You DO NOT need to take away the rights of all trans people!
02-27-2025
Erin Miller []
CON
Trans rights are human rights. This bill is a disgrace to everything Iowa stands for. It would legalize discrimination against trans people in the state of Iowa after we have already given them protection under the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This has never been done in the history of the fifty states and it's disgusting that you would remove protections already in place since 2007. Trans people are still here in the state of Iowa. Passing this bill won't make them go away. It will go along with fascist eugenics doctrines and continue the genocide President Trump wishes to enact against trans people in the United States. This isn't about sports or bathrooms. It's about rich white men (and the women who toe the line) staying in power, and patriarchy doesn't work if we refuse the gender binary. It's about eradicating anyone who speaks truth to power. Immigrants and trans people are easy targets to build the infrastructure they need to come after larger targets, like all women and minorities.We used to be on the right side of Civil Rights history in Iowa. If this bill passes, we can't claim that anymore.Trans rights are human rights. When you chip away the rights for some, you destroy democracy for everyone.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill. I pray that you will not make people needlessly suffer like this. To strip people of civil liberties goes against everything I have been taught as a Christian. Love your neighbors, please do not do this to LGBT people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
Every Iowan deserves equal rights and should have equalprotections under the law. One persons thoughts on gender and/or gender identity does not determine the humanity and rights of another. Passing this bill would be detrimental to the livelihood and lives of many of our fellow Iowans. Please vote to protect ALL Iowans.
02-27-2025
Sarah Lynn Fitzgerald []
CON
I strongly oppose any attempt to amend Iowas Constitution to strip away the rights of transgender people. Every Iowan deserves equal protection under the law, regardless of gender identity. This proposed change is not about safety or fairnessit is about discrimination. Targeting a vulnerable group for political gain goes against the values of freedom and dignity that our state should uphold. I urge lawmakers to reject this cruel and unnecessary amendment and focus on policies that support all Iowans, not harm them.
02-27-2025
Victoria L. Herring [Myself]
CON
Iowa has had? a history in civil rights to be proud of. These bills deleting the protection for gender identity in our Iowa Civil Rights Act are cruel, unnecessary and contrary to our proud history. You already have laws that address the alleged concerns in specific areas. Why not stay with that and deal with issues precisely and not allow for broader discrimination in employment and housing. I don't agree with those other laws but at least they had some focus and argument for passage. This broad stroke will allow for broadbased discrimination in important parts of our lives jobs, housing among them that really cannot be justified by the alleged reasons for the other laws. Iowa needs to stand out for its proud history in support of civil rights and not deliberately deciding to cut out certain persons from civil rights protections. And if you won't protect them, you won't protect others Martin Niemoller was right.
02-27-2025
Jerry Linde []
CON
This bill will deny basic civil rights and the protection of those rights from a group of people SOLELY because they happen to be different, allowing them to be discriminated against. They have done nothing to justify denial of rights that are guaranteed by the constitution and the law will encourage others to treat them differently as well.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am not in favor of any legislation that would allow for discrimination of any citizen with regard to housing, employment, education, food access or medical access. There has to be a better way to protect our children from sportsrelated injury than to restrict basic human rights to any segment of the population. There should also be a way to address medically necessary care from elective treatments. This need to bundle all these items together so a particular "agenda" can get passed in, imho, unconscionable. Please do the right thing by all our citizens.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I and many Iowans, your constituents, are opposed to this bill. It will NOT protect women nor will it protect women's sports. What it will do is legalize discrimination against Iowans who happen to be seen as different from the Republicans who brought this bill forward.If the Republicans who brought this bill forward really cared, as in actually gave a crap about the people in this state ALL the people they would be fasttracking bills to save/clean up our water supply, protect our environment, fix our roads, & ensure our Governor isn't funneling tax dollars into charter school scams.
02-27-2025
Angela Ventris [n/a]
CON
I am firmly against this hateful legislation which takes rights away from Iowans. Just look to our flag "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain". Please spend time issues that Iowans are desperate for movement on such as the rising cancer rates! I register CON on this wasteoftime, dispicable bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am opposed to this bill. It targets less than 1% of the population which by its very nature is spurious, cruel, and unjust. It is a bill written out of fear for perceived possible crimes/issues of which we have no evidence of ever have happening. Not only is it cruel it is so poorly written that it could adversely affect the female population of our state. This is entirely a political ploy being used to control the population through further continued ignorance of a community that the majority of people will never encounter. Never be affected by. It is this type of thing that helps foster the high suicide rate among the transgender population. If I didnt know better was being done to purposefully create a passive environment to encourage it. My child was transgender and we were fully aware of how much governmental actions like this contributes to an atmosphere of despair it directly contributed to our childs suicide this year. If you have any of the love of Christ in your hearts you would vote no on this bill. Because nothing in the gospels ever commanded you to be cruel for the sake of power. Laws are suppose to protect all of its citizens , This one only makes some of our citizens targets.
02-27-2025
Doyle zMonsma []
CON
I am Doyle Monsma and I've lived in Iowa all my life. I love my trans friends and family. I'm so upset at the attempt by some out of touch folks to enshrine discrimination against trans folks into Iowa Law, reversing the climate of growth and safety I have always known and respected about our state. Please oppose this extreme legislation."
02-27-2025
Beck [ ]
CON
As a medical professional providing care to our LGBTQ+ population, this bill is incredibly disheartening for our state. I strongly disagree with this bill. I very much fear for the future of our patients and community if this is passed.
02-27-2025
Terri Jo Walter [Retired]
CON
This is bill is wrong and cruel.
02-27-2025
Will [LGBTQ+]
CON
I fear for my safety and my LGBTQ friends and allies safety because of the high possibility of our rights being taken away and being able to be discriminated against. This is not okay. This would not make America a FREE country. This would not make America GREAT. Not in my eyes, and im highly willing to bet not in other LGBTQ+ and allies eyes as well. (As ive heard from my peers as well.) Reject the Bill. Save the people. ALL the people. This is NOT okay. This is NOT freedom. We want to live in a country where we can be ourselves without being discriminated against. Thank you for listening. Please take my words and all these other people's words into serious consideration.
02-27-2025
Sarah Pearson []
CON
This legislation is shameful and lays bare the systematic effort by the Iowa State Government to control our bodies and our identities. How dare you claim that removing the civil rights of Iowans is done in the name of the name of women and children? The only thing that is making our kids less safe is the knowledge that their lawmakers are intent on telling us how to live and how to be. Please listen when we say that this hateful and discriminatory legislation hurts ALL of us, regardless of our identities. The State of Iowa is going backwards, and we are all going to pay for it. History will have its eyes on you.
02-27-2025
Raven Demir []
CON
02-27-2025
Emily Shearer []
CON
I vehemently oppose HF583 (formerly HSB 242). Constituents, community members, and businesses who oppose this legislation far, far exceeds the number of people in support. This legislation has been introduced as necessary to protect women, but this has nothing to do with, nor will it in any way, protect women. I have never not once felt threated by a transgender person. I have felt threated by cis gender males, a majority of the people who support this bill. HF 583 (formerly HSB 242) erases a very small, very vulnerable but very important community. This goes beyond erasing civil rights for human beings, this will negatively impact Iowa's businesses, economies, and does nothing to support growth or forward progress in our state.
02-27-2025
Melissa Goranson []
CON
The entire premise of this bill is awful. There are so many ways I would love for you to protect our children, this is not the way to go about it. The broad sweeping definition of what constitutes a drag show would be so detrimental to the performing arts, a place my child feels safe and accepted. In these kids shows, quite often due to the volume of girls who audition compared to boys, girls play parts written for boys. The theatre company has already said if this legislation were to pass, they would only be doing 1 cast, cutting the number of children performing in half.I very recently went to my first drag show. That specific performance was not for children, and so it started at 10:00pm in a bar. We do not need legislation to protect our children from this.
02-27-2025
Matthew Hebda []
CON
It's Trans and NonBinary rights today... it's your rights tomorrow.If Iowa lawmakers are willing to strip human rights from one group of people, who's to say they won't do it again? We are setting a dangerous precedent by pushing this bill through at its current speed, and an even more damning one by letting it potentially get to the Governor's desk one week after being introduced. I implore every Iowan to think about the message this bill sends to Transgender and NonBinary people: "We don't want you here. You don't belong." That is not the message that anybody deserves. Vote against this bill.
02-27-2025
Steven Levy [None]
CON
I strongly recommend against this bill that will take away civil rights protections that are so critical to all peoples lives concerning things like housing and so many other aspects of daily life.I am an educator and know how challenging it is already for many students and parents to deal with prejudice or other challenges from being even a little bit different, even with current protections. This law will make it much worse.This is a very bad way to prepare the state for future success, since it says to future generations, and anyone thinking of moving here now, that we only care about people in the majority and similar to us and not everyone. It also will harm the states economy as we already have challenges with not having an adequate workforce in many areas.Please do not make us the first state to take away protections like this.ThanksSteve Levy
02-27-2025
Jes Schnieders [N/A]
CON
This bill is only focused on one thing, removing the language around gender identity as a protected class. That is nothing more than a direct discrimination on transgender Iowans. A complete removal of their civil rights. I view it the same as if you were trying to pass a bill that said mothers cant get jobs, or people who live in West Des Moines cant receive health care. Sounds crazy? It is. Do not pass this bill. Do not make Iowa the first state to legalize discrimination against transgender people. Please focus on other pressing issues in our state like education, rising cancer rates, and jobs. Thank you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Congresspeople who change laws to strip away civil rights from trans humans are cosplaying licensed medical professionals or an immoral unloving God. Who are these people to judge and punish and incite hatred and violence against trans people, even stripping civil rights from them? Why do they choose to harm trans humans who do them and others no harm? What powers do they hold to menace and imperil other human beings? How can removing the civil rights of a whole group of people, trans people, allow these honest human beings who are merely living their true lives, as other honest humans do, be fair or considered right?
02-27-2025
Lori Enloe [NONE]
CON
I am strongly opposed to HF 583. Removing Civil Rights for a protected class of citizens is reprehensible. Every individual no matter who they are deserves the protections granted by the Civil Rights Act. We cannot strip transgender Iowans of protections under the Iowa Civil Rights Act and erase them.WE need to protect intersex and cisgender Iowan who don't fit rigid gender norms. People need to be able to have fair access to housing, jobs and medical care.DO NOT VOTE FOR HF 583
02-27-2025
Veronica Armstrong []
CON
With everything else that Iowans are facing in their daily lives, this bill is an abhorrent overreach of legislation to enact violence on a group of people. This bill does not improve the life of any Iowan, but does make Iowa actively unsafe for any person who is transgender or gender nonconforming. Making life in Iowa unsafe for them does not serve any purpose other than hate. I implore you to vote NO on this bill and spend your time on work that actually serves your constituents positively. Do your job, because this is not it.
02-27-2025
Josie OConnor []
CON
America is founded on the concept of being free to live as you choose, to worship how you want and to express yourself freely. There is no legal reason to ban, prohibit, or limit the rights of those who have a gender that does not align with their sex at birth other than control and hatred. It is contrary to the foundation of not only the United States as a country but our own state motto. How can you claim to prize liberty or maintain rights when you are taking those from citizens because they dont hold the same political or religious beliefs. No one has been hurt by allowing these rights and freedoms but many will be hurt by a refusal to continue granting these rights. What country, what state, do y'all live in where this is aligned with the constitution? Please consider the harm you are doing when you vote.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
02-27-2025
Kim H []
CON
This is a harmful bill that tells Iowans that you are less than if you are not the exact same as someone else. Iowa is a beautiful state filled with people from different backgrounds, different views, different sexualities and genders all those things are what makes Iowa beautiful and great! Taking away a person's right because you feel they are different than you is the exact OPPOSITE of what the US and Iowa is about. I strongly oppose this bill and the discriminations it creates of my neighbors and friends.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Vote no! Do not open the door to widespread discrimination against transgender people leaving them without legal recourse. Do not abide hate. Do not enshrine hate in Iowa law.
02-27-2025
Zeph Folkerts [N/A]
CON
02-27-2025
Jennifer H [None]
CON
I am the mother of an 18 year old who is bright and creative, graduated high school on the honor roll, is active in their community, a student at Iowa State University with straight As, an amazing friend to anyone that knows them, and also a trans person. This bill seeks to not only depersonify an entire class of people, but also villainize them. This bill is giving the public permission to think of my child as someone not worthy of basic human rights. I hear a lot from the Republican Party touting religion as the basis for all this. But I can promise you, Jesus is not sitting beside you as you condemn all these people. He is out in the crowd, comforting the trans and nonbinary as they are being persecuted by you. How many of you have actually taken a moment to get to know trans and nonbinary people and their families? They are your constituents, too. I plead with you not to make such a sweeping decision that is going to harm an entire group of people that have done nothing to hurt anyone.
02-27-2025
Thomas P. Elias [None]
CON
This Bill is cruel and mean. For a Party that espouses limited government and personal freedom, this Bill exposes the GOP as hypocrites.This Bill also violates the Iowa Slogan displayed on our State Flag. Whatever happened to 'OUR LIBERTIES WE PRIZE AND OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN'?Part of the GOP's reason to pass this Bill is attributed to women's safety, yet there are no incidents that can be specifically cited that where a woman's safety was violated.This Bill invites discrimination in all forms and sends the message that these people need to leave Iowa because we don't want them here!I hereby request that his Bill is withdrawn or defeated today!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
02-27-2025
Erica Haugen []
CON
CONThank you for taking my comment. Ive lived in Iowa nearly all my life, and have been proud to do so. I urge you to protect the rights of all Iowans. Transgender Iowans live, work, celebrate, and help make my community a lovely place to live. Protect their rights, the same as you protect mine. Vote no on HF583. Respectfully, Erica Haugen
02-27-2025
Phillip Schissler []
CON
My name is Phillip Schissler and I am strongly opposed to this bill. Not only does this bill strip trans people of their rights, it encourages further dehumanization and demonization. Trans people deserve these rights and safety. Our government should be working to protect vulnerable groups, not putting them in harms way.
02-27-2025
Jill Bjorklund []
CON
As a Christian and proud mother to a transgender daughter, I beg you to vote NO. I will not debate my child's or loved ones' existence with you, but I will ask you to obey God's commandments to love thy neighbor as yourself and to be his hands and feet here on earth. We are not called to bow to a president or political party, but to serve one another in love as Jesus taught us. For those of you who claim to be Christfollowers, how can you reconcile erasing and dehumanizing an entire people while also living out your faith? Jesus weeps. You have convinced yourself you are protecting women and girls from "obscene monsters" like my daughter, when the real danger to women and girls in Iowa is the Republican Party. You want to protect women and girls? Let's ensure they have bodily autonomy/reproductive freedom, access to OBGYNs all across the state, a comprehensive sex education and properly funded public schools, the protection of robust gun safety laws, and the opportunity to earn equal pay... to name a few. We all know that this will be challenged in court, so it is very difficult to understand your reason for doing this. It stokes the fires of hate, wastes taxpayers money, and endangers the lives of atrisk LGBTQ+ Iowans. Doesn't sound like the Jesus I know. Quit embarrassing us on a national stage and neglecting the real work you were elected to do here in Iowa. Stop fanning the flames of culture wars to divide and vilify us. May God have mercy on your repressed souls because the history books (if they're not banned in the future) will not remember Iowa's 91st General Assembly and entire Republican Party kindly if this bill becomes law. OUR LIBERTIES WE PRIZE, AND OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN!
02-27-2025
Hayley Rauzi [Private citizen]
CON
As a lifelong Iowan and ally to the LGBTQIA+ community, I strongly oppose HF583. This bill would strip many trans Iowans of their basic rights, and take our state backwards by decades. I used to be proud of being from Iowa, but right now, I am not. As Iowans, we need to stand together, not tear down the most vulnerable among us. I urge all working on this bill to call to their humanity, and vote no to this toxic bill!
02-27-2025
Will Denny []
CON
Reject this bill. Do not engage in the business of taking away rights from already marginalized people.This obsession with gender and sex binary is a Christian concept that has no business governing our lives. Recent research challenges the traditional gender binary, suggesting a more complex understanding of sex and gender. Evidence from neuroscience, endocrinology, and psychology indicates that human brains and bodies exhibit mosaics of femaletypical and maletypical features rather than strict dimorphism (Hyde et al., 2019; Joel, 2021). Sex determination is a multistep process influenced by both biological and environmental factors, potentially leading to variants beyond the binary (Hart, 2024). This complexity extends to anatomical education, where a nonbinary approach is recommended to better represent human variation and improve healthcare delivery (trkalj & Pather, 2020). The recognition of intersex conditions and presentation of sex as a continuum rather than a binary is crucial for developing competent medical practitioners (trkalj & Pather, 2020). These findings have implications for research, clinical practice, and understanding sex differences in disease risk (Hyde et al., 2019; Hart, 2024).
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill is a direct attack on women. Not only will it strip away the rights of someone who is transgender but it will open up a door for any woman that doesn't fit a beauty standard, that could be accused of being trans and discriminated against for housing, education, etc.
02-27-2025
Peter Hill [None]
CON
I do not agree with this bill. I believe in full human rights to be who we wish to be including their gender specification. This bill is nothing more than an opportunity to legalize discrimination based on a persons personal decisions.I see no benefit to enacting this bill and find it to be a waste of the legislatures time to focus on things like this that are purely personal and have no place being debated by the government. Simply protect all people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Taking away rights from a group of people will not make them go away or change them. They will still be herejust now discriminated against.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
02-27-2025
Nancy Geiger []
CON
Stop going after vulnerable people. Which outofstate or outofcountry moneybags are you following in order to stir up more hate and divisiveness in Iowa? Instead, focus on decreasing Iowas cancer rate with legislation guided by science.Do no harm, do good.
02-27-2025
Jerel Krueger []
CON
I have lived in Iowa all my life, and I have never been as ashamed of my state house as I am while writing this. There are no solutions here. Gender does not harm anyone, but bigotry and hatred do. A fast glance at the words being said about transsexual people in the public forums in our country and our state leave no doubt that if we do not protect our trans citizens and neighbors, they will suffer harm as businesses and individuals are allowed to deny their fellow community members of services and employment without cause. The bigotry is very real, very obvious, and the only reason to make this change is to allow it to happen. It is antiIowa values, antiAmerican, and antiChristian to make our already vulnerable neighbors even more exposed to harm.
02-27-2025
Nikki Aden []
CON
Stripping protection against discrimination based on gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights act is wrong. Its so wrong that it directly conflicts with our State motto (our rights we will maintain). Trans people are people. Theyre our friends, neighbors, family. Theyre not going anywhere. Although, by passing this law and stripping them of their civil rights, a whole lot of them may feel inclined to leave Iowa. At a time when we need our best and bright to stay here. This bill is a shame, proposed by scared, little, bigotted people who refuse to see the beauty and breadth of creation in all its forms and wonder. Anyone who votes for this will have a stain on their legacy forever.
02-27-2025
Laura [Myself]
CON
I urge you to not pass this bill to destroy civil rights protections for trans and intersex Iowans. All Iowans deserve to feel safe and protected in their homes, jobs, communities, and places of worship. If you are putting this forth in the name of Jesus, I remind you that he said to love thy neighbor. If you are doing this because of a culture war, I ask you to protect your neighbors and fellow Iowans from this hateful attempt at erasure by leaving sex, gender identity, and related terms protected in Iowa's civil rights laws. Iowa is stronger because of our trans neighbors and friends.
02-27-2025
Geralyn Jones [None]
PRO
I am in support of repealing, gender identity being a part of Iowa civil rights code. The prefix trans means to change or transfer. If we could change our gender, then its not immutable. You will always be the same sex your whole life that you were at birth. No matter how hard you pretend you dress up or have surgeries you will always be a male or a female. That is real truth. Thats not my truth. Its clearly not your truth. Theres one truth and you are either male or female. we cannot allow individuals who want to change their identity like they change their underwear and put themselves into our young daughters, wives at the gym, or any other intimate spaces. When the LinnMar school district passed that transgender policy, I had asked the superintendent if my daughter, who is enrolled in PK at the time, would be safe if a man were to walk into the bathroom. Whether it wA in her classroom or on the stadium restroom on a Friday night where any predator could walk in. His response, theres nothing I could legally do about that. That same day we chose to pull our children from public school.Please PASS this bill. Thank you!
02-27-2025
Hailey Franzen [N/A]
CON
I grew up fearful of who I knew I was and how strangers around our state responded and treated the people like me. In my own community in Clinton County, Iowa, I witnessed church congregations dissolve over debates regarding the inclusion of people who were queer, trans, and/or fluid in those identities. Those debates occurred whether or not those queer individuals were clergy members, worship center staff, church membership, or those who would walk into worship for the first time. I saw churches split into two different congregations and mass exoduses from the spaces that didnt. I saw clergy people be fired and excommunicated. All because they supported people like me. I, myself, was excommunicated from what I considered to be a safe and supportive place in my community, as a teenager, because I was asking too many questions about queer identities and faith.Beyond the religious examples in my community, I saw national moves to block patronage in businesses, refusal to hire people who were openly queer, some states allowing marriage rights and others actively opposing it. I witnessed trans and queer hate crimes that left my queer siblings and elders murdered or badly beaten, and have long wondered when I would be next.When it comes to the protections of gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights code, youre protecting women and men from discrimination in job forces and education centers. Without those protections, women will once again be passed over for positions and promotions, and men will be discriminated against for going into social fields such as teaching, social work, and nursing. Who are we to tell others that their passions do not align with their sex or gender? Further, parts of this proposition essentially erase intersex identities altogether. Many families do not know if their infant was born with intersex characteristics, and do not find out within the first six months of life as this house file suggests. Many, many intersex persons do not receive the correct diagnosis until the onset of puberty, at which point many intersex persons experience forced medical procedures that are not required for a healthy life. Stating that parents would know if a sec anomaly has occurred within the first 6 months of their newborns life and that they would have the time to file it as a disability during that time is not reasonable. Its not reasonable to designate someones sex as a disability. Gender identity, as this house file would like to strike from our vernacular, is not a disability. Fluid identities have existed for centuries. Gender fluid people, specifically meaning those who do not align with solely male and/ or solely female genders, have existed in what is called the State of Iowa, for centuries.Without protections for queer Iowans, more young people are going to grow up fearful. They will grow up witnessing older queer people being murdered and badly beaten. They will grow up wondering why people hate them for their truest expression of themselves. They will die. They will die because they cannot live with hate and fear constituted by the law of this state. The hardest news: they already are, and in theory, until today, their gender has been a protected class in Iowa.Please. Vote no on HF 583. Vote no for current gender nonconforming Iowans, for the youth who are watching, and the youth yet to be born. Show them that there are legislators out here who love them, and will protect them, because they are here we are here.
02-27-2025
Kegan Huntley []
CON
The only purpose of HF 583 is to sew hate and transphobia. There is absolutely no reason to revoke these rights unless you support bigotry and malice. Trans people should be protected just like everyone else in this country against targeted harassment and discrimination. Trans people have the right to exist. Do not support HF 583!
02-27-2025
Angelina Anderson []
CON
Please do not pass this bill. Transgender people have always existed and will continue to do so, regardless of your definitions, which are not based on science or any known fact. This bill codifies the right to discriminate against those people. It even allows discrimination based on the appearance of being transgender. It is not okay to discriminate against anyone simply because of how they look!! Ever! This is middle school bullying taken to the next level and it will deny housing, jobs, access to healthcare to good people just because they don't look the way others perceive they should. No one should be prevented from taking care of their families or themselves because of their appearance. This bill also proposes to deny the state's children education on sex and gender. I think we all know that ignorance is the source of hate and fear. Failing to educate us tantamount to creating hate and fear of transgender people into our children. For some, this will mean fearing and hating themselves. It's unforgivable. You were elected to protect all the people of our state, not just the ones you like or the ones you identify with. Do the job you were hired to do. Vote NO on this bill.
02-27-2025
Jamie Kearney []
CON
Ive read the bill in its entirety. Its clearly nothing more than a shameful attempt to dehumanize transgender individuals and to legalize discrimination against them in Iowa. I oppose this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen ]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please extend civil rights to ALL persons regardless of race, sexual identity, religion, etc. Do not treat others as secondclass citizens. We are all equal in God's eyes.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I lived in Iowa for eight years. When I first moved there, I was proud and excited to join a state where LGBTQ+ voices were heard and marriage equality was granted before it was signed into law on a national level. Now I am deeply disheartened to hear that my old home state is considering the erasure of trans rights. Transgender Iowans exist and will always exist regardless of legislation, and they deserve the same dignity and freedom of expression as anyone else.
02-27-2025
Kristine Milburn, EdD [Self]
CON
I am writing to express my strong support for maintaining the current language in the Iowa Civil Rights Act that protects transgender individuals from discrimination. These protections are vital for ensuring that all Iowans, regardless of their gender identity, have equal opportunities and are treated with dignity and respect.The fundamental principle at stake is one of basic human rights. No one should be denied access to housing, employment, or public accommodations simply because of who they are. Our transgender neighbors and family members deserve the same protections and opportunities as anyone else in our community.Removing these protections would have a devastating impact on the lives of transgender Iowans. It would leave them vulnerable to discrimination in critical areas such as housing, employment, and access to essential services. This would create a climate of fear and inequality, undermining the very principles of fairness and justice that our state holds dear.Furthermore, maintaining these protections aligns with the values of inclusivity and respect that are central to our community. We are a state that prides itself on welcoming and supporting all its residents, and ensuring equal rights for transgender individuals is a crucial part of upholding those values.For those of faith, I urge you to consider the Golden Rule: treating others as you would want to be treated. This principle extends to all members of our community, including transgender individuals. Additionally, many faith traditions emphasize the inherent dignity and worth of every person, and protecting transgender individuals from discrimination is consistent with this belief.I understand that some have concerns about the definition of gender identity. However, these concerns should not be used as a pretext for denying basic rights to a vulnerable group. The existing protections have been in place for some time, and there is no evidence of widespread abuse or negative consequences.I also want to address the concern that this bill might lead to additional discrimination towards individuals whose gender presentation does not fit common perceptions. On the contrary, maintaining these protections helps to create a more inclusive and understanding society where everyone is valued for who they are, regardless of their gender expression. Removing these protections would likely increase discrimination, not decrease it.I urge you to stand on the side of equality and justice by maintaining the current language that protects gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This is about ensuring that all Iowans have the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.
02-27-2025
Brooke Ann Benschoter []
CON
Today, someone I love dearly is fighting for their life as an Iowa citizena life I brought them into when they were born and they have proudly called Iowa home since. In 2007, this very body recognized the importance of extending civil rights protections to all Iowans, including those of diverse gender identities. This legislative action was a testament to Iowa's commitment to equality and justice for all its citizens. Now, we stand at a crossroads that could send a resounding message, not just to these Iowans, their families and friends, their coworkers and employers but to the entire nation, that Iowa is no longer a place where all can live, work, and play freely and without fear.I urge you to consider the profound impact of removing gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This bill would strip away the rights of transgender individuals, exposing them to discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. Such a move would make Iowa the first state to revoke existing protections for transgender people, setting a dangerous precedent that could embolden discrimination nationwide. By removing these protections, we would be sending a message that certain Iowans are less deserving of dignity and respect. This bill would not only harm transgender individuals while tarnishing Iowa's reputation as a state that values diversity and inclusion.I implore you to stand with all Iowans and reject this harmful bill. Let us continue to make Iowa a state where everyone can live authentically, safely, and without fear of discrimination.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Steve Holt should be ashamed of himself for taking up this bill. He will have blood on his hands if this passes. The blood of my own child,their freinds and every single trans person who no longer feels wanted in this state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Don't enter my name on any mailing list!I'm against biological men participating in girls sports. Not only is it unfair to the girls, but potentially dangerous. Men have more strength than girls. That's just a fact. Girls will never win against a trans person. And then to have them use the locker room is just wrong. Why do we need to accommodate that one person and ignore the rights of the rest of the team? I sure wouldn't want to see a man strip and I sure wouldn't want to be a teenage girl and strip in front of him. It was hard enough in front of the other girls. As an adult, I would be extremely uncomfortable with a man in a restroom. How embarrassing and humiliating! Trans need to be in their own category, because they just don't fit in with the male and female category. Don't ignore the rights of the population like me, and I'm one of many!
02-27-2025
Julie Holscher [Community Support Advocates ]
CON
This bill is horrible and demeaning to human beings. Everyone deserves to be who theyre and deserves to have rights. I used to be proud to be an Iowan and no longer am with these kind of proposals. I work with mental health and this will be devastating to our communities mental health.
02-27-2025
Maureen Tobin []
CON
I urge you to oppose HF 583. This bill's removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act endangers the civil and human rights of all Iowans. It strips away vital protections and legalizes discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations for people who are or are suspected to be transgender. Codifying this discrimination into law will heighten the divisions in our communities, and increase challenges faced by a marginalized population that already experiences significantly higher rates of mental health struggles. This bill is wrong for our state, wrong for our communities, wrong for our childrens futures. Please Vote No.
02-27-2025
Susan Deibner [Retired school teacher, parent, and grandparent]
CON
I am appealing to your humanity as a person involved in the collective world and family of the creator. We all deserve respect and basic support whoever we are and whatever our experience and psychology helps us understand about ourselves. The protections our civil rights guarantee must be in place for all people so that discrimination cannot allowed against any group of people. That is our constitutional guarantee. topics like participation in womens sports are not what the measure is about. Crow said the bill would allow discrimination against transgender people and that other subjects could be addressed without removing these protections.Mr. Crow explained it so succinctly.You could take out any one of those components (specifically transgender bathroom use and participation in sports as a transgender youth could be restricted) and still get what you say you want out of that bill, Crow said. You dont have to deny transgender Iowans access to employment, credit or housing. This is a choice. I can agree to disagree with folks in this building about a great number of things but when it comes to allowing people to be denied access to shelter, simply because of who they are, I cannot compromise.I agree. The basic protections of housing, credit, access to health care, and employment must be upheld. We are all human and we are all equal in the eyes of the law.
02-27-2025
James Kinney [none]
CON
"Our liberties we prize and our RIGHTS we will maintain"This is the message signified on our state flag, for those who may need help remembering. When did our state representatives lose sight of the values of our state? I am a lifelong Iowan, having dedicated 34 years to this place seeking my undergraduate and graduate education and now starting my medical practice serving Iowans from all walks of life.This bill does not align with Iowa's values. This bill is an extreme and horrific afront to civil rights. It will negatively affect the lives of our trans citizens, who deserve every legal protection under the law. We do not want this. We treat our neighbors with respect, compassion, and dignity. This bill would be a national embarrassment as Iowa becomes the first state to consider STRIKING civil rights from a protected class. Do not let this be your legacy. VOTE NO to hate. VOTE NO to legalized discrimination. Trans rights are human rights.
02-27-2025
Jennifer Diemer []
CON
02-27-2025
Lara Quiles [none]
CON
I do NOT support this bill. Taking away rights from ANY subset of people is a slope that would allow taking away rights from other subsets. Please vote in opposition to this bill for when you protect the rights of the few, you protect the rights for all. Iowa's motto is "Our liberties we prize and our RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN".
02-27-2025
Shelley Anderson []
CON
I believe in the land of the free with equal rights for all. I am having a very difficult time understanding why any elected official wants to remove an Iowan's rights just because they look different. I think it is very unAmerican to be okay with anyone losing their job or not being able to get housing because of the way they look. No other state has done anything like this and bills like this are showing the world how inhumane we've become. Please stop attacking fellow iowans and vote down this disgraceful bill today!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is pure discrimination based on fear and hate. Everyone is deserving of civil rights. I am opposed to this bill in no uncertain terms.
02-27-2025
Rebekah Siegert [N/A]
CON
I am a proud Iowan. I believe in this state. There was a time in which I was so proud of our progress and our strides toward equality. In 2009 Iowa became only the third state in the U.S. to legalize same sex marriage. The Iowa flag reads Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Yet we stand here today discussing a bill which threatens the liberties and rights of our lgbtqia citizens. The lgbtqia community and allies who have gathered here today are not asking you to allot us special privileges in the eyes of the law. We are simply asking you to let us be, let us exist, let us live. Today we urge you not to stand for discrimination and hatred. We urge you to maintain the very things we so proudly display on our state flag. We urge you to vote no on this bill.
02-27-2025
Jennifer Bartles [resident]
CON
Please do not let this dehumanizing and hateful legislation pass.
02-27-2025
Christi JohnsonBascomb [One Iowa]
CON
I oppose this dangerous bill. The Iowa Trans community should continue to be a protected class under Iowa law! This bill wouldn't only hurt the trans Iowans,like my husband, it also negatively effects my children and other trans families like mine.
02-27-2025
Samantha Gaffney-Chaloupka [ ]
CON
Please oppose HF 583. Trans people (and people who dont fit into traditional gender norms) are all people too, and deserve protection from discrimination based on their gender identity. The civil rights act doesnt elevate one group of people over another, but rather levels out the playing field for historically marginalized groups. We should not be removing protections for people from our civil rights code!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Civil rights belong to all citizens. No group should be singled out to be denied rights.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [interested citizen]
CON
This bill is a tragedy of human rights. Trans rights are human rights! Iowa would be the first in the nation to deny its taxpaying citizens the rights afforded to every other person in the state. We cannot allow bigots to erase people from our communities stand up and say no.
02-27-2025
Brooke Ann Benschoter []
CON
Submmitted to the New York TimesIowa Must Not Be the First State to Strip Away Rights from Transgender CitizensAs an Iowa mother, I never imagined I would have to fight for the rights of my own childthe right to be treated with dignity and respect simply for existing as who they are. But today, I find myself doing just that. My child, a transgender Iowan, is fighting for their life in a state they were born in, a state they have always called home. And right now, this state is teetering on the brink of making a grave mistake.Iowa has long been known for its progressive valuesour commitment to equality and justice for all people. In 2007, the Iowa legislature made a monumental decision to amend the Iowa Civil Rights Act, extending protections to transgender individuals, ensuring that we, too, could live free from discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public life. We took pride in being a state that understood the importance of protecting all Iowans, regardless of their gender identity.But now, this very legislature is considering a bill that would strip away those vital protections. If passed, Iowa would become the first state to revoke such fundamental rights for transgender citizens. This is not a small matter. This is not just about a piece of legislationits about the kind of state we want Iowa to be.What message does it send when the very state that once led the nation in civil rights protections turns its back on a marginalized community? The passage of this bill would not only harm transgender individuals but also create an environment of fear, exclusion, and uncertainty. It would send a loud, cruel messagenot just to transgender Iowans, but to the entire countrythat our state is no longer a place where all citizens can feel safe, respected, and valued.Iowa has always prided itself on being a welcoming place, a state where people from all walks of life can thrive. But by stripping away civil rights protections for transgender people, we would be turning our backs on that proud tradition. Instead, we would be making a dangerous precedent, inviting other states to follow suit. Once one state is able to pass such legislation, others will certainly try. Iowa could very well become a beacon of intolerance, not just for those who live here, but for the entire nation.As a mother, I fear for my childs future. Every day, they face the challenges of living authentically in a world that often refuses to accept them. But they should not have to fight this fight alone. They should not have to fear that their rights could be taken away. The proposed bill would make it even harder for transgender Iowans to live their lives with dignity. It would erase their identities and make them secondclass citizens.Iowa has been a beacon of hope for many years, a state that stands for equality, justice, and inclusion. It is my hope that we can continue to live up to that legacy, standing with our transgender neighbors and rejecting this harmful bill. I implore the Iowa legislature to listen to the voices of those who have lived, worked, and loved in this state for decades. Do not make Iowa the first state to strip away protections for transgender citizens. We are better than this. Our children deserve better than this.Iowa can and should continue to lead by example, standing firmly for the rights of all its citizenstransgender or otherwise. Let us protect the values that make Iowa a state we can all be proud to call home. A Concerned Mother, Des Moines, Iowa
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose this bill and support trans rights in IA.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
This bill must not pass. It is highly discriminatory against a group of individuals who need civil rights. Others in our State need to be educated about them in our schools. Anyone, regardless of sex or gender deserves equal rights.
02-27-2025
Ryan roenfeld []
CON
What an absolute waste of time attacking an already marginalized community who have proven far less a threat than how many so called Christian leaders. Look at these glad handling gop fools out fear mongering against a threat that doesnt exist. If they are so concerned where are their investigations and laws into the well known abuse in the catholic, lds, jehovahs witnesses, and other religious organizations? Where?
02-27-2025
Katie T. []
CON
The only reason this bill exists is to be blatantly cruel and allow hate. This bill solves no issues but creates many. This bill doesn't only affect trans Iowans, it affects all Iowans. It allows Iowans to be ignorant and intolerant. Iowa is better than that and deserves better than that. This bill doesn't protect women and children. It only protects uneducated opinions and harmful preconceived ideas. This bill allows discrimination and prejudice against Iowans based on assumed gender presentation. This is a violation of humanity and compassion. Aren't we supposed to "love thy neighbor as thyself?"
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am strongly against this bill. I am ashamed my state would even consider stripping human beings of their rights and protections. This is a sick and immoral bill that will take rights from thousands of Iowans. What happened to 'love thy neighbor', what happened to 'Our Liberties we Prize and Our Right We Will Maintain'? This goes against everything we have work towards as a country and is a blatant attempt for our governor to try to win favoritism with Donald Trump an impeached felon. This is sick, this is disgusting, this is NOT what Iowa is about or the values Iowans hold. I am ashamed our elected officials would even consider such a bill.
02-27-2025
Krystal Kruse []
CON
As a native Iowan and a mother of two young children, I can't imagine how I would explain to them why some people aren't allowed to play certain sports or use certain bathrooms. How do I explain that transgender people, who are just that people, are allowed to be treated differently based on being genuine to who they are? Should I look back in history to see how white families justified segregation? I love Iowa. I love Des Moines. I love my community. Removing transgender safeguards creates an unsafe environment. Not just for transgender individuals, but for allies and those who are still discovering who they all. All humans deserve safety.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
First, it is crucial to protect children and women from men in bathrooms and locker roomsit is about time someone stands up to this nonsense of men pretending to be women.Second, this is a mental health issue. Men dressing up as women are cross dressers. They need mental health services, not rights that are greater than the rest of the population.Third, the rest of society is not required to play along with cross dressing peoples mental issues, if that hurts ANYONEs feelingstuff luck buttercupget over itremember the old sayingsticks and stones may break ones bones, but words will never hurt.Pass the billprotect society from the mentally ill!!!
02-27-2025
Isabella Perksen [Self]
CON
Vote no on this bill! As a social worker and queer person, I am appalled by this bill. It is blatant discrimination against an incredibly vulnerable group of people. This bill will only harm Iowans and take away their basic human rights. As a social worker, one of our ethical principles is to "respect the inherent dignity and worth of the person." HF 583 directly opposes this principle. Trans Iowans deserve to exist peacefully and without discrimination. Vote no on this unethical bill!
02-27-2025
Jason Estes []
CON
Do not be the legislators of the first state to strip civil rights protections from a group of our own citizens. The accelerated and coordinated planning for this bill reeks of the legislature wanting it rammed through with minimal opportunity for public opposition.Its absurd that we would speed this through, legalizing housing, employment, and financial discrimination against Iowans when far more pressing issues with real harms to Iowans are stalled by parliamentary maneuvering.Shame. I guess you didnt understand what Martin Niemller was talking about.
02-27-2025
Stephanie Lientz []
CON
I oppose HF 583. This bill is harmful, unnecessary, and on based on scientific inaccuracies, as the terms gender and sex are not interchangeable. Please spend your time and our taxpayer dollars working instead on legislation that supports all of the people of Iowa.
02-27-2025
Alicia deLeon []
CON
Oppose this atrocity of a bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Morgen Bermel []
CON
I strongly encourage you to vote NO on this bill. This bill is harmful and unlawful. It will only harm and hurt your constituents who you said you would stand up and speak for. Speak for us now and vote NO! Trans rights are human rights. These are people, not robots, not AI. Real life humans you are trying to take rights away from. This is not okay. This is NOT American. Do the right thing for the people of Iowa and vote NO!
02-27-2025
John Hicks [Self]
CON
As a concerned Iowa citizen, I am appalled the Iowa House is debating whether to continue to prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity. Passing this bill paves the way to roll back protections for other classes. The statutes that included those who are transgendered among the civil rights classses which desrve protection were passed with bipartisan support.Those Iowa citizens who are transgenered deserve jobs, homes, and a life free from codified discrimination. You are telling trans people they are less than; they are second class citizens. Do you not think life is already difficult for them and that they already face scorn and illtreatment? Let's not allow government to be part of that which to seeks to crush fellow human beings. How does the existence of people who are transgender harm any other Iowan?
02-27-2025
Anonymous [An Iowa Native and New Mom]
CON
This bill would limit the rights of fellow Iowans which is explicitly contrary to our state motto of "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain".
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Joshua Candler []
CON
Absolutely the worst idea to come from this Congress. We were the the third state in the United States to approve Gay marriage in the early 2000's, we used to be one of the best states for people who don't fit the Straight White mold. What happened? What happened to the Iowa where diverse ideas, thoughts and people are celebrated? We, as a state, have rolled so far into the extreme Christofascist that thousands are fleeing Iowa. We need to go back to celebrate the things that make everyone different and unique.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Vivid Vortex Visions]
CON
Do not pass this bill. Our citizen are living in terror already and the misunderstanding of alternative genders is wide spread and confusing for many. Do not give a legal pathway for this confusion to become hate and discrimination. Sex/gender is not as simple as it seems and we need to lean in a discover not discriminate and judge. Please vote no. From a life long native Iowan republician Christian.
02-27-2025
Jim Duff []
CON
This bill should not pass. The stated reasons for this billto prevent biological men from playing in women's sports and using womens bathroomsis not a justification for the bill. It is already the law in Iowa that biological men cannot do these things, and these laws would supersede the Iowa Civil Rights Act since they were passed after them. Removing civil rights protections in credit, housing, and employment for Trans Iowans would create a caste system of second class citizens. The federal protections for trans Iowans are not sufficient, as that protection is based only on a court ruling, which can (and is likely to) be overturned at any time.Additionally, adding language about "separate but equal is not the law" to our code is dangerous. This flies in the face of Brown v. Board of Eduction and harkens back to a time of Jim Crow. I know that is not the legislature's intent with this bill, but that is the message it sends to all Iowans and to anyone thinking about moving to Iowa and starting a family here.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
It is difficult enough to hire in this state. Please do not make it more difficult for small business owners by giving folks yet another reason to move away from or decide to not move to Iowa.We need workers, and taking away rights is a bad look that will discourage a more vibrant workforce
02-27-2025
Alexandra Volker [none]
CON
I am against this bill. Removing civil rights from one group of people is a slippery slope. Does Iowa want to be known as a state that takes rights away from people? This will open up trans people and anyone who someone suspects is trans to discrimination. Cis women who aren't "feminine looking enough" will be challenged and discriminated against too. This helps no one and if this bill is passed it will only solidify Iowa as a backwards state full of hate.
02-27-2025
Roshani Schaefer []
CON
I am writing to you today to ask you to reject HSB242, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. Please vote against HSB242.
02-27-2025
Geoffrey Shapiro [Private Citizen]
CON
VOTE NO on HF 583 Allow me to summarize the bill supporters arguments:women need protection from men in their private spacessports ban for trans womenThese reasons are a guise for erasing trans people from our society! Don't be like NazisWith the passage, transgender folks can be fired or not hired just because of who they are. Additionally, loans, rental property, and most services. So lets compare: 1. Many many more transfolks will be fired, evicted, go hungry and face discrimination. Transgender are some of the most discrimination groups and when feminine trans women go to male bathrooms and the reverse big harry trans men will go to the womens room. Violence and harassment will ensue due to the public whose fears are stoked and the original stated non problem will still remain a nonproblem with new problems emerging. 2. Sports! WTF, trivial concern compared to death, suicides, homelessness destroyed families, and pure hatred the bill embodies. You can stop this. Do the right thing so your next generation will not have to curse you for being evil by treating a long suffering people with more suffering.2. Sports! WTF, trivial concern compared to death, suicides, homelessness destroyed families, and pure hatred the bill embodies. For what it is worth, yes some trans women have won in women sports, but far more have not excelled due to the real effects on bone and muscle mass.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Gender is distinctly different from sex and should be protected accordingly. If an individual ungone surgical sex reassignment, they should be acknowledged legally as their new sex.Are we now burdening people with providing genetic information before they can use the bathroom? This seems like typical government overreach, especially when it comes to matters between a person and their doctor.Ugly women get stopped going into the women's restroom often enough because someone thinks they're a man. This will only add to that humiliation.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to you today to ask you to reject this bill, a bill that would remove basic protections for transgender Iowans and create complications for other Iowans who do not fall neatly into the bills narrow definitions. All hardworking peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state, and should have the opportunity to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. If someone cant rent an apartment or get a credit card simply because of who they are, we cant expect them to be able to compete on a level playing field with their peers. These basic antidiscrimination protections are an important part of any meritbased system, allowing people to access opportunities regardless of who they are or how they are perceived. Further, the bill jeopardizes sex stereotyping protections for nontransgender women that arent included in Iowas sex discrimination statute. Transgender people are our friends, neighbors, family and coworkers. When it comes to being able to earn a living, having a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, they should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against.. Please vote against this bill!
02-27-2025
Jennifer Cohrt []
CON
I urge you to vote con on this issue. All Iowans (and all humans) deserve the right to live free of discrimination. Actions like the one proposed make Iowa a very unwelcoming place. Is this really who we want to be? Not me. We are better than this!
02-27-2025
Katie Dramstad []
CON
Please don't take away the civil rights that we have had in Iowa for the majority of my life. If you pass this bill, it will make the state an unsafer place to live and raise children. How can taking away civil rights for anyone regardless of how you feel about someone's identity ever feel like the right thing?
02-27-2025
Lindy Nordstrom [Self]
CON
This is sad.
02-27-2025
Joseph Roth [The Dealt Hand]
CON
This is a cruel and heartless bill standing against everything that Iowa should stand for.
02-27-2025
Cynthia Dee [Iowa Citizen]
CON
Respectfully implore you to reconsider voting in favor of these horrible discriminatory bills. We as Iowans dont want to discriminate against our fellow citizens. I am appalled we are even considering this. Please dont vote in favor of HF 583. You are abandoning our values of equity and fairness.
02-27-2025
Liv Minshall [NA]
CON
Trans people have always existed and will continue to exist. The hateful rhetoric of this bill will actively harm trans Iowans, especially families and trans children. Trans kids have the right to a happy and healthy life without the government interfering.
02-27-2025
Jennifer Fletcher []
CON
I think its the height of evil to take away rights and protections from those whose gender identity might make them stand out. They deserve to be protected from discrimination like any other human being.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Medical care provider ]
CON
02-27-2025
Zachary Williams []
CON
Trans people are still people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
It would be a disgrace to the State of Iowa to be have the dishonor of being the first state in our Union to remove a protected class from the Iowa civil rights Act. Be reminded In Romans 14, Paul gives two directives to the to the church in Rome on how to treat believers who are different.Accept One Another (14:112)Paul calls believers to receive one another, to welcome one another into their homes. Paul gives believers three reasons not to judge one another, but to accept one another:The person that you despise and judge, God has welcomed (14:3);The Lord is the master of your brother, and he is able to make him stand (14:4); andWe will all stand before the judgment seat of God (14:10).Pauls point is simple: believers have no right to judge or despise one another. Instead, they are to accept one another. When you dont accept another believer, you begin to judge others as if you were Godyou begin to act as a gatekeeper in the church for who should be welcomedyou begin to act as if your own personal evaluation of another matters to God.But Paul makes clear that this humble acceptance of one another does not mean you are to change your convictions, even on matters of preference, because in everything you do you should be fully convinced in your own mind (14:5). So if you are living unto the Lord, there should be a sweet spot in your humility that allows you to hold your personal convictions on certain preferences and still be able to accept others for their differing preferences.In Romans 14, Paul is pushing both the strong in the faith and the weak in the faith toward each other, toward the middle, toward unity as one voice. And he creates a new category of strong person who could say, I eat meat, but I accept Christians who dont, and a new category of weak person who could say, I dont eat meat, but I accept Christians who do.
02-27-2025
William S [Transgender]
CON
I am a 22 Year old Trans Male Born in Waterloo Iowa and raised in Cedar Falls. I am asking you to reject the bill. As passing the bill would put Transgender and LGBTQIA+ people in danger. Allowing discrimination towards certain human beings because of how they identify? seriously? That does NOT sound like freedom to me. I am outraged and dissapointed in Iowa, America, and Society/Humanity for allowing it to get to this point. We as people need to be better and do better. We are all Humans. We all just want to live our lives to the fullest. This will not be possible for me and other Transgender (LGBTQIA+) people if this bill passes! America is going backwards in others, and my eyes as well. As I've had many, MANY other people agree with me. I live life in fear a lot of the time already, and this bill passing would make it worse. Removing Gender identity and allowing discrimination against Trans people? seriously? seriously! I am beyond furious and, again, HIGHLY dissapointed. But don't just take my word for it, listen to the OTHERS as well. Please take all these LGB(T)QIA+ people's "cries for help/justice" into SERIOUS consideration. I along with many MANY others are not happy with all that is going on in Iowa and America lately. Things need to change. Justice needs to win. We need to be heard. We need the people to LISTEN. Please take our words into consideration!
02-27-2025
Jeffrey Morgan []
CON
Those who favor this bill say its needed to make women safe in restrooms. Fine, thats great. However if enacted it would cause much more harm than good by taking away the civil rights protection of a group of Iowan citizens. Think about that. By doing this, you are negatively impacting their right for freedom of discrimination for medical care, employment, housing and most importantly the freedom from harassment, bullying and worse. You may not agree with their choices but as Americans and Iowans, we have the right to live the way we choose without harming anyone. The instances of trans individuals being harmed by harassment are much greater than instances of women being attacked by trans individuals in restrooms. The state motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain applies to all Iowans and any effort to take away the civil rights of a specific population should never be allowed. Thank you for your consideration.
02-27-2025
Katelyn Buckton DiIulio [Teacher in Iowa ]
CON
I urge you to oppose HF853. This bill's removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act endangers the civil and human rights of all Iowans. It strips away vital protections and legalizes discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations for people who are or are suspected to be transgender. Codifying this discrimination into law will increase challenges faced by a marginalized population that already experiences significantly higher rates of mental health struggles, bullying, and even violence. This bill is wrong for our state, wrong for our communities, wrong for our childrens futures whatever their assigned sex at birth or future identity may be. Vote no.
02-27-2025
MaryFrances McAndrews [Myself and my community ]
CON
I am a mother, wife and lifelong Iowan, I am not in favor of any legislation that would allow for discrimination of any citizen with regard to housing, employment, education, food access or medical access. There has to be a better way to protect our children from sportsrelated injury than to restrict basic human rights to any segment of the population. There should also be a way to address medically necessary care from elective treatments. Please do the right thing by all our citizens. This is a wrong and immoral.Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
The Bible teaches us to Love our Neighbor and treat them with respect...that includes LGBTQ. Stop the Hate!
02-27-2025
Martin Smith []
CON
Representatives:A bill removing the civil rights protection from transgender individuals is unworthy of support, and I call on all of you to oppose this measure. That some of the language in the bill closely parallels language from the infamous Plessy v. Ferguson decision, which was used for a half century to support Jim Crow laws and practices, surely proclaims how unjust a measure this would be if it becomes law.Transgender people were recognized as a group that suffered from discrimination against them. Those who support this bill seem to think such discrimination is warranted. Such discrimination only serves to show that Iowa is a less welcoming State for all to live or relocate to.I ask you to oppose this bill.
02-27-2025
Stacy Tangney []
CON
This bill is an abomination. All peopleincluding those who are transgendershould be treated fairly and equally. As a life long Iowan, I am imploring you to reject HSB242.
02-27-2025
Lisa Martincik [Private citizen]
CON
I absolutely oppose HF 583. It will contribute nothing to the betterment of Iowa or Iowans. The only thing that has changed since 2007 is the growth of a very specific flavor of Christian Nationalist thought, and this bill preferences and legislates those BELIEFS over the safety of trans people and the will of a majority of Iowans.No, this bill will not protect women and girls. The main threat to women is violence by acquaintances (80% of assault cases). And feeling discomfort due to your personal beliefs does not equate to threat. Keep your thoughts to yourself or share them, but your feelings dont outweigh reality or the discrimination and danger facing trans people even before their rights are taken away. This bill accomplishes nothing but an extraordinary act of ignorance and bigotry.Lawmakers could address so many issues affecting Iowans, from water safety to healthcare shortage to rural support. Spending the time to even propose this bill is an insult to Iowans.Separate will never be equal. Trans Iowans will always exist. Lets all live to the best our our abilities unimpeded by others.
02-27-2025
Taylor Tomlin []
CON
let people live their lives in peace and happiness! Do not pass this.
02-27-2025
Hannah Clements []
CON
I urge you to vote no on this harmful legislation. I have lived in Iowa my whole life and I love my transgender friends dearly. They belong in Iowa and they deserve to flourish here.Please, please do not pass this. People deserve to live their lives safely and in pursuit of happiness here. Do not make Iowa a hate and fear filled state.
02-27-2025
Erin Parks [self]
CON
02-27-2025
Amy shuttleworth []
CON
7100 transgender people in Iowa 21,200 new cases of Cancer projected in Iowa in 2025567,581 Iowa population over 65.471,010 registered Democrats in Iowa594,533 registered Republicans in IowaThe Republican "mandate" is not beneficial to Iowans.
02-27-2025
Gretchen Kemple-Taylor [Constituent ]
CON
This bill is discriminatory and will be harmful to Iowans. People should be allowed to be who they are!!
02-27-2025
Brody White [Iowa Resident]
CON
We demand an Iowa for all Iowans.
02-27-2025
Anthony Spoerl []
CON
I have several friends and family that this bill will directly effect. They are wonderful, kind people who have done nothing wrong but try to live their lives as earnestly as they can. Passage of this bill will drive them from the state that many of them were born and raised in. These are people that represent the best Iowa has to offer and I truly cannot understand why anyone would want to alienate and put them down without ever even meeting them.
02-27-2025
Linda Schlesselman []
CON
Everyone person is entitled to all civil rights protections. Stripping individuals of civil rights is the most UNAMERICAN thing we can do. All federal, state and local governments should guarantee everyones civil rights not take them away.
02-27-2025
Jennifer Gilmore [Gilmore Mental Health; Evidence Based Approaches ]
CON
As a mother, mental health therapist and multigenerational Iowan I strongly encourage you to defend the civil rights and protections of some of our very most vulnerable and marginalized citizens. Please remind me why it is I chose to stay in this state to raise my children here as my grandfather (WW2 vet) did before me. If you are taking these actions as Christians, please behave in Christ wise ways.
02-27-2025
Robert Carlson []
CON
Do not remove the rights of others if you wouldn't want your rights removed
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Kristin Y. [Self]
CON
Please, listen to the voices of your constituents and not those of special interests or individuals hiding behind religion and using it as tool to push discriminatory and ignorant legislation like this. This bill has never been about bathrooms, equity in girls' sports, or the rights and safety of women if that were the case, you'd be focusing on domestic violence protections and prevention, access to healthcare, and investing in youth development programs. Instead, you are working to strip the rights of my friends and neighbors. I implore you to VOTE NO on this harmful legislation Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain!
02-27-2025
Tierney Israel [N/A]
CON
This bill is nothing but an attack on our friends, family and neighbors for being who they are. This is a moral issue. No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.This is about neighbors and family. Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, finding a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like the rest of us.Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote no.
02-27-2025
Janice Binder [none]
CON
Please vote against this unnecessary and cruel bill. Trans and nonbinary people need our protection from discrimination, not measures that will forcibly out them and subject them to further acts of hate. As someone with family members who survived the Holocaust, I know what othering, scapegoating and labelling people as undeserving of the same rights as others can do. Even in Iowa, my children have been bullied for being different. My oldest son was beaten up by members of his own team after the basketball coach, a social studies teacher at his school, Christian prayers with the team before games. Having an official other my son gave the team the impression that it was ok to bully my team as they said, "Jews cannot play basketball as they threw water bottles at him in the showers." This went on for a year and a half before I found out. Officially removing protections for transgender people announces that it is fine to bully, harass, and discriminate against them, just as it was done to my children. All the research I have read, and it has been a lot, shows that transgender adults and children encounter discrimination, intolerance or prejudice in nearly every aspect of daily life in Iowa and across the U.S. Please let Iowa remain a state that welcomes and cares about its neighbors and community.Why does only a small sect of Christians get to decide how many genders there are? My religion recognizes 8 different genders in the Talmud and the Mishnah. Other religions, like many Native American religions and Hinduism, recognize more than one gender. This is establishing Christianity as a state religion in violation of the Constitution's separation of church and state.
02-27-2025
Melissa Lutgen-Scoonover [Not affiliated]
CON
This bill goes against all Iowans liberties. More than 9% of people are LGBTQIA identified. That means that the true number is more. Do NOT take away the civil liberties of any Iowan or you will be on the wrong side of history.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Mindwell Egeland [Resident and parent ]
CON
The rights of all Iowans are impacted when civil rights are restricted.No one knows how many citizens will be affected today, tomorrow, and in the future. This is causing Iowas children to leave in concern for their future families. No one can predict how they will be impacted. Fir me, my children are moving away and will not come back because of this policy. For Iowans for example, Medical practitioners will choose other places without these restrictions.We are here today but we have children who will be impacted for the rest of their lives by this change. We can make decisions for our own families without having the Government change this law and tell us who gets their rights removed from protection.
02-27-2025
Deborah Booth []
CON
This bill is unconstitutional. We are removing basic rights from a group of people that have done nothing wrong. It is not a crime to dress or look different from others of your gender. Christ said to love one another and judge not lest ye be judged. Do not punish a group of people simply for existing.
02-27-2025
Kari R Vrban []
CON
All humans deserve civil rights. This bill will harm Iowans. Please vote no on HF 583.
02-27-2025
Allison Knoff []
CON
02-27-2025
Heather Innis []
CON
Trans people are simply trying to exist just like everyone else. Please oppose this hateful bill and stop trying to remove protections that make trans and intersex people safer and better able to live in this world.
02-27-2025
David Halaas []
CON
Protect ALL Iowans!
02-27-2025
Alejandro Garcia-Lair [None]
CON
This legislation targeting transgender Iowans is not just harmfulits a betrayal of basic human rights. Singling out a marginalized group for discrimination serves no purpose other than to create suffering. Laws should protect people, not erase their dignity. This bill must be stopped. We cannot stand by while policymakers choose cruelty over compassion. History will remember these choices, and so will the people affected. Do the right thingend this attack on fundamental freedoms.
02-27-2025
Krista [None]
CON
When I moved to Iowa years ago I was so proud of how Iowans took care of each other. This bill promotes hate and discrimination and is not caring other Iowans. If this bill passes it will cause so much unnecessary pain and suffering for our trans community who already face many barriers and who deserve to have the same rights and respect as the rest of us. If passed this bill is a slippery slope for finding other Iowans to reject/treat as less than. That is not who we are.
02-27-2025
Jace Carty [Private citizen]
CON
It is reprehensible to even consider repealing civil rights for ANY protected group. I doubt any member of congress or the senate would dream of attempting to remove the civil rights protections from any other protected group. In fact I am certain of it. So why do any of you think it's acceptable to do this to transpeople?I am a 53 year old transman. Removing my civil rights protection makes it legal to discriminate against me and everyone like me. Employers can refuse to hire me because I'm trans. Employers can fire me because I'm trans and I will have no legal recourse.I can be refused, or lose, housing because I'm trans. Again, I will have no legal recourse. I can be refused medical care. Again because I will have no legal recourse. All because someone wants to take away my civil rights protection.Please protect my, and other transpeople like me, civil rights.Please oppose this bill and stand up against this attempt to repeal the civil rights transpeople and nonbinary people have been guaranteed since 2007.
02-27-2025
Linda Johnson []
CON
All people have constitutional rights. Becoming transgender is a personal choice. Laws were not created for this. It is wrong to set a precedent for a group of people who choose an unpopular lifestyle. It could cause anyone who unnecessarily feel "oppressed" to claim civil rights violations. It could be people who own chickens or choose to ride motorcycles. Transgenders are looking to be recognized and victimized. This bill should not be passed.
02-27-2025
Jeff Schipper [none, private citizen]
CON
Please do not support this bill. Ending civil rights protection is someting I never thought I would see in my lifetime. It is not reasonable. It is cruel. No human being is a danger to any other human being merely by existing. This bill is a danger to people who have done no harm by existing.Thank you.
02-27-2025
Adam Everhardt []
CON
I am writing in opposition to this bill as it seeks to stigmatize trans people who are simply living their lives in a way that doesn't affect anyone else. I am opposed to this kind of invasive reach of the state government into citizen's private lives.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I oppose HF583. Iowas GOP majority government is out of control. Using the law to exclude and alienate a minority is wrong, using religion to justify this action is wrong. STOP.
02-27-2025
Claudia Brown [NA]
CON
I want to express my opposition to this HF583 and SF418. Transgender Iowans are full Iowans, and should be granted all rights and liberties granted to all Iowans. The bills remove Iowans who are transgender from the Iowa Civil Rights Act and from other areas of the Iowa Code. They legalize discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodation, education, and credit against Iowans who are transgender.I belive no one have should have No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example,our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination. This is about neighbors and family. Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, finding a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like any of us.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
"Our Liberties we prize and our Rights we will maintain" and "Fields of Opportunities" are Iowa's taglines. Removing these rights and liberties will lead to fewer opportunities for Iowans, therefore this feels like the most unIowan thing that we can do.Removing Civil Liberties from our state constitution does not make Iowa a better place, in fact, it moves us in the opposite direction of progress. Unfortunately we are seeing our government waste time and taxpayer money on things that do not benefit the majority of Iowans.
02-27-2025
Lindsey Shepard []
CON
This is a moral issue. No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.This is about neighbors and family. Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, finding a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like the rest of us.For people of faith: Protecting people who are transgender from discrimination means treating others as we want to be treated. Gods promise to care for all children of God means everyone should be treated as such. Including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination upholds Gods promise.Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote no.
02-27-2025
Joanie [Hoefer]
CON
I implore you to do the right thing and not pass this bill. It is negligent, hurtful, and not what Iowa has been known for throughout its history. I respectfully do not agree that this law will protect me, a cisgender woman, or my cisgender daughter. The demographic that worries me is the white, straight cisgender man who feels they are entitled to our bodies. I HAVE personally shared public bathroom spaces with trans women and have never felt threatened or in danger. I cannot say the same for being in public spacesmind you, NOT bathroomswith white, heterosexual men (for the record, I am a white woman) I do not appreciate white men vilifying trans people to make it sound like they are now so concerned with a womans safety because it fits their narrative. Im not buying it and a significant portion of the Iowa population isnt either. You may not know a trans person now, but someday you mightbe it a child, grandchild, niece, or nephew Will you be able to look them in the eye and say that you passed this legislation that caused them to be discriminated against in Iowa and feel good about yourself? I hope not. And if so, I feel very sorry for you.
02-27-2025
Sherri Renee Adelman []
CON
Please vote no. No person should have their civil rights limited in this way. Passing this bill would take us backward in history, not forward.This is a moral issue. You can't legislate morality! No one should have their rights taken away from them. People who are transgender should be treated like anyone else and not be discriminated against. For example, our transgender neighbors should have equal access to housing and credit in Iowa. Keeping gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects them from discrimination.This is about neighbors and family. Transgender people are our neighbors and family. When it comes to being able to earn a living, finding a place to live, or being served by a business or government office, we want our neighbors and family to succeed just like the rest of us.For people of faith: Protecting people who are transgender from discrimination means treating others as we want to be treated. Gods promise to care for all children of God means everyone should be treated as such. Including gender identity in the civil rights law and protecting people who are transgender from discrimination upholds Gods promise.Thank you for being brave and standing for what you know is right. Taking away rights and protections for things such as housing and credit is wrong. Please vote NO!
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This bill will only continue to harm people whether it leads to further disdain or violence towards trans people as when these types of bills pass, the hate seems to be legitimized. This is our Iowa nice government being the first state to strip away a protected status. This will also continue to hurt Iowas growth as younger generations will want to move to a state that is more progressive or less repressive. Do not pass this and make Iowa look bad in the nations eyes. Many of us have family members, know business owners, or just know trans people just living their lives but we continue to make problems where there are none. Focus your energy on helping those that need it and stay away from peoples private lives.
02-27-2025
Lindsey Bonifazi []
CON
In this time of chaos, people deserve and need protections. Civil rights should be extended to all humans, not just the ones certain folks agree with. I am disappointed in this Iowa. This Iowa does not represent me or my loved ones. Shame on this Iowa for being so hate filled and misguided. I do not support this bill and I do not believe anyone else should either. Transgender people are not a threat to women's sports or our children.
02-27-2025
Brittney Kohler []
CON
This bill is taking the rights away from American people. It is a disgrace to see this happening. Our government has turned into an oligarchy, and for some reason Republicans cant see that. This is not the America I was raised to believe it is. We are reliving history. This is no different than late 1930s Germany. I am disgusted that the people who are supposed to be protecting our rights are taking them away instead. These are human beings. Think about your oath to the American people. We will not stay silent while you hurt the everyday lives of innocent people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Mallory Dudley [Na]
CON
How can you be so cruel? They are people too and their sexuality and gender are just as sacred as everyone elses. Youre being selfish, cold, un empathetic humans if you pass this bill. You should be ashamed of yourself for supporting g limiting rights to other human beings whose only crime is being themselves.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
People should be protected from hate crimes.
02-27-2025
Ashley Hart []
CON
Transgender people in Iowa deserve the rights and opportunities to work, live and exist without discrimination. It is necessary to keep gender identity protected in the Iowa civil rights act.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Private Citizen]
CON
The legislatures job is to enact the will of the people. Alienating and shaming your constituents because youre afraid of something different than you is cowardly. Does the concept of liberty and justice FOR ALL not make sense to you? Bigotry has no place in this state or country and the time will come where you regret your own bigoted choices. I vote to love people for who they are, not to strip tax payers and neighbors of their civil rights.
02-27-2025
Laura Blaser []
CON
Vote NO on HSB 583 (HSB 242)I'm am emphatically opposed to this bill. Not only are these changes unnecessary and regressive, this bill is harmful and demonstrates an appalling lack of logic and heart. This bill will set a nasty precedent and has me deeply concerned for the future of Iowa and ALL of its citizens.The concepts surrounding gender identity will not disappear just because politicians are closing their eyes and plugging their ears. This bill's proposed definitions of sex and gender are inaccurate and uselessly simplistic, even from a purely "biological" perspective. Iowa used to be at the forefront of education and care for the people. Bills like this only serve to plunge us further down and away from that standard.Being the first state to remove a protected class from the civil rights act is not the legacy we want for Iowa.Vote no and let's solve some REAL problems here
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Concerned citizen]
CON
Unable to be present in person. A concerned citizen expressing my voice in support of the humanity of all people and NOT supporting this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Everyone deserves to have their rights protected and this bill makes it legal to discriminate against someone based on their gender identity. Do the right thing and end this shameful bill.
02-27-2025
Ben Trachsel []
CON
Gender identity should remain protected under the civil rights act. The olympics already has a requirement for the same sexes to compete aganist each other. That us pretty simple.This bill is unnecessary and is just a wedfe issue.Thanks for reading this far,Ben
02-27-2025
Lexxis Bellinghausen [LGBTQ+]
CON
What is the point of this? This would encourage people to commit HATE CRIMES!! This will strip transgenders of their dignity and safety. Our government is not supposed to act as bullies! This would skyrocket suicides in our state. Shame on you for even considering this!
02-27-2025
Bob Malcomson [unaffiliated]
CON
If HSB242 is intended to fix current elements of antidiscrimination law to make it protective of men and women and purportedly other existing state and federal laws already provide protections for people who are trans, then why does Iowa need any additional law prohibiting discrimination. Just get rid of the whole concept of antidiscrimination in state law. It's apparently unnecessary, according to the Republican caucus. And as a side note, why is the symbol on this comment submission form that indicates "visible to the public" in the shape of crucifix? That's pretty odd.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Behalf of myself]
CON
It's unbelievably despicable that lawmakers continue to attack individuals in our community when their job is to take care of ALL in their community regardless of beliefs. Transgendered individuals are just trying to live their lives. They go to work or school, just like cisgendered people. They have families. They are sons. They are daughters. Nieces and nephews. Brothers and sisters. They have every right to be protected under the Civil Rights code.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Blurring the gender lines to create a group soley for social acceptance is not a state or federal matter. Restrooms were designed to serve a specific function based on biological needs. Special passes for those unhappy with thier body opens a door for potential harm to 'CIS' gendered people, which makes it a state matter, as we saw in several cases during the past 5 years where rapes or other aggrivated assaults have happened in schools that chose to accept this doctrine. Lastly, tax payer money for gender reassignment should have NEVER happened. There are men and women that are unhappy with certain aspects of thier body. This leads to depression which may result in suicide. Just like trans people. One could argue that breast and penile enhancement as well as weight loss would fall under the same umbrella as gender reassignment if it serves to remedy a persons mental well being based on social acceptance and a distorted self image. The fact that legislature has fast tracked money for gender reassignment shows that there is an agenda behind this that proves it does not serve the peoples best interest. The first step SHOULD be psychiatric help with depression medication. Not an all expenses paid trip to the body shop
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill is dangerous. UnAmerican. Sad. Iowan do not approve!!
02-27-2025
Dawn Strader [Iowa constituent/no org.]
CON
Oppose HF583! Dismantle MAGA and Christian Nationalism!EveryONE belongs in IOWA. RIGHTS for all.
02-27-2025
Sarah Cavanaugh []
CON
Do not pass this hateful and unnecessary legislation.
02-27-2025
Aspen Olsen [self]
CON
As a mother, queer, psychotherapist, and a lifelong Iowan, HF 583 is dangerous. Iowa would be the first state to remove a protected class from it's Civil Rights Act. This would set a very dangerous precedent in Iowa and across the nation. Which class will be removed next? This is NOT what Iowa stands for. Keeping gender identity as a protect class is SUICIDE PREVENTION. First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a socialist.Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a trade unionist.Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a Jew.Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me.Martin Niemller
02-27-2025
Tina Corley
CON
The removal of these protections would be a tragedy. From the first state to legalize same sex marriage, we cannot start stripping away protections that we have offered to the citizens of our state what does that say about us as Iowans? We can do better than this. This is not what Iowa represents. Fields of opportunities. That means every Iowan deserves the opportunity to flourish. Removing these protections would harm the transgender communities opportunities to flourish with every other Iowan.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
It is unconstitutional to remove basic rights from a group of minorities just because we are different. We deserve to be treated fairly. We make up a small percentage of Iowans, but we are still here and not going away. We are human, just like you. Would you want rights stripped from your own children? No? Because that is essentially what you are doing. You are stripping away fundamental rights of Iowa's citizens, and some of them could be your own flesh and blood. If this passes, it proves no one has any rights, just privileges the State allows us to have.
02-27-2025
Chelsea Cooper [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Tamara Lorenz []
CON
This bill will tell part of the Iowa citizenry that they are not worth equal protection under the law. I am a white, straight, 76 year old lifelong Iowan and this bill makes me feel ashamed for my beautiful state that has been a national leader in civil rights. This bill sends our civil rights protections for Iowans in a cruelly wrong direction.
02-27-2025
Sarah Hogan []
CON
Ending civil rights protections for transgender Iowans is abhorrent. This will allow discrimination against people for simply living their lives with their true identity. It is not the governments place to define gender, nor assign anyones gender. Stripping civil rights from transgender individuals under the guise of protecting women is laughable. If the Iowa state government actually wanted to protect women, we would be allowed the bodily autonomy to make our own healthcare decisions. Legislating discrimination against one group of people is only going to lead to legislating discrimination against other groups of people. The new state motto, Freedom to Flourish is a lie. Who gets to flourish? And why does the government get to decide who gets to flourish? This is a hateful bill and I am strongly opposed.
02-27-2025
Barbara Rouse []
CON
Iowa has always been known as a welcoming affirming state. Our trans brothers and sisters are no less worthy of all the civil rights that the rest of us are awarded. They are people no different than all of us, with the need for housing, employment and respect. Under your watch, please do not allow Iowa to become the first state to take away rights from its law abiding citizens.
02-27-2025
Leah Berte [Self ]
CON
The bill infringes on federally protected rights. The bill discriminates against a particular demographic. There is no place for so much hate and discrimination for a group of human beings.
02-27-2025
Devine Dinaso [N/A]
CON
The proposed Bill HF 583 is discriminatory against transgender individuals, who want nothing more than to live the life they were promised in the United States of America. They do not want to harm, replace, overstep, or replace any other person in a job/sport they only want the same opportunities as cisgendered individuals. Had they not been identified as transgender, they would take up the same amount of space. Why does it make a difference? If someone wants to harm another, they will just do it regardless of how they identify. Nothing has ever stopped them before. Taking away the rights of any citizen is NOT the definition of freedom, the very premise this country was founded on. This bill sets a precendent to allow discrimination against our community for jobs, housing, and benefits this is not what America stands for. To live freely is to live as yourself, and this bill proposes the revocation of that very ideology. We are not free, until we ALL are free. The passing of this bill will not only give individuals with different ideologies a pass to harass and discriminate against transgendered individuals, it will also raise the suicide rate among young and old transgender individuals alike. To pass this bill, is to kill our children. Do not do it.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
I oppose this measure and legalizing discrimination.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Why would we want to take away the rights of fellow citizens; even if it falls outside our understanding, or own personal style. Church and state are to be separate, this bill or removal erodes that separation. Do not remove another's rights per your religion.
02-27-2025
Evelyn [Wertzberger]
CON
02-27-2025
Mary Francis []
CON
Being an appointed politician your interest should be providing and protecting rights for all humans. This bill should not be legal, you are pushing your personal aganeda and not the unbiased agenda you were trusted with when voted into a position of power. Anyone for this bill needs to be out of office for the safety of humans. Why do you want to take rights away from others?
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
As a taxpayer and lawful citizen I am appalled at the way our leaders prioritize their agendas versus actually doing what they campaigned on. Its clear Iowa only bows to one man. A convicted criminal who is seeking to erase history. This bill would not have even been considered if our governor wasnt seeking to compete with other republican governors who bow to the same faction. And its clear that our administration doesnt follow actual facts or data. They take what is told by their lobbyist donors and twist it into something thats justified in their eyes. Nor does anyone actually understand what equality means. Weve lost sight of what this great nation was built upon. And nobody in the legislature was alive when the constitution was written yet the Republican Party seems to think they can change it by passing ridiculous bills. And taxpayers and citizens like myself are the ones suffering. A human being regardless of gender should be allowed to decide who they are in life. Because that is a god given right from birth to adult hood. And just like federal jobs being forcefully cut we are now deciding who gets to play sports, what they can be called, where they can exist. And its wrong. The people deserve real leaders who will actually listen and work for them. Not people who paid solely by conspiracy theorists who only seek to divide and cause chaos. I feel bad that this bill is even being considered because I view everyone no matter color, sex, religion, or gender identity as equal to me. Theres only one race that matters. The human Race
02-27-2025
Marla Mayberry [Iowa Resident]
CON
I oppose HF 583 I stand in solidarity with my friends in the trans community. No one should have to worry about being fired, denied housing or educational opportunities because of their gender identity.As an Iowan, where the state mottos is "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain," it is terrible our Legislature is even considering HF 583. It is contrary to the values we hold most sacred as Iowans. I ask you do not make Iowa the first state in the nation to repeal civil rights protections for its citizens.
02-27-2025
Joshua Bertocki []
CON
This bill affects real people. I think that is often times forgotten. If you dont know or have never spoken with a trans person, then I feel sorry for you and urge you to do so. They are real people, and deserve to be treated and protected like everyone else. This bill is shameful, and is not supported by a large portion of your constituents. Please vote no on this bill that says discrimination is not only okay, it is sanctioned by our government.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I stand in opposition to this bill, especially as regards to the removal of gender identity as a protected class. There is no logic in such an act.As long as the hardness of the human heart leads to the discrimination of people and the weaponization of their differences, such protected classes will be needed. The very attempt to remove one class while retaining others is by itself an acknowledgement of such a need.The very controversy of the subject of gender identity is proof enough that the likelihood of discrimination is too obvious to ignore.For the protection of the people. I urge everyone with a vote to vote "no" on this bill.
02-27-2025
Jason Krull []
CON
The Iowa motto is, "our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain". Why are the Republicans in our state belligerently disregarding that? Why are the rights of some citizens not subject to that motto, and some are? Are not all people created equal?I urge you to vote against this bill, dismiss it, and focus on problems that actually help Iowans, not culture wars designed to get you air time on Fox News.
02-27-2025
Matthew Roberts []
CON
There is no good reason to strike this from current law. Not only will it effect the Trans community, but all Iowans. Perhaps a business will begin denying employment/services/anything because the owner doesn't like when women wear dresses (which is a gender norm). Either way, it is not the governemts purpose to remove rights, but to grant them through the will of the people. Our legislature should work for Iowa, not for national Trumpist Agendas.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Individual]
CON
I cant believe I live in a state that doesnt respect human dignity. If you dont think transgender people will be discriminated against just by living their life, you are sadly mistaken. Am I transgender? No. Am I affected by how one may choose to live? No. Do I think they will be unfairly discriminated against if this passes? Absolutely! Our country is no longer the land of the free when we cant accept people for who they are. I believe in God. I understand He says there is a man and a woman. But I also believe that He will judge and that He accepts EVERYONE. I also believe in the separation of church and state and feel that line is now very blurred. For those who want to use the Bible to define how all should live, I suggest you read all of it and not only those parts that support your narrative.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
My name is Leo, I am a transgender man, and I am begging you not to pass this bill. Transgender suicide rates are already high and passing this bill will make them higher. Is that what you want? For us to die? For our blood to be on your hands? We are humans too, whether you like it or not, so we deserve human rights too. It's as simple as that. And to the civilians who support this bill: First they came for the transgender people, and you did not speak out, because you are not transgender. By the time they come for you, there will be no one left to speak out for you.
02-27-2025
Michael [NA]
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583, which seeks to alter the Iowa Civil Rights Act. I believe this bill would undermine the rights and protections of marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I urge the committee to reject this bill and instead focus on promoting inclusivity, equality, and social justice for all Iowans.
02-27-2025
Diana Rae Patten []
CON
How does a bill like this help people choose to want to work, play and live here? Does hate actually 'sell' our state.Iowa has had a long track record in supporting civil rights.What is the actual goal in passing something like this?Want to protect women? The go after the men who abuse, rape and/or stock them.
02-27-2025
Lois Colleen Lawler []
PRO
Many comments on the changes proposed by HF 583, removing the language gender identity from the code are shocking in the display of lack of understanding of our government. The United States is not founded upon a government that holds all human rights and graciously grants limited rights out to selected groups of individuals. The Constitution is considered a negative rights document. It limits the power of government. People are free to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. All people are born with rights which the Constitution guarantees to all people with limitations on what can be taken away from them by the government. All people are equal before the law. All people can not be discriminated against. The Bill of Rights restricts government from taking away our rights. Contrary to following the limitations on government by protecting the natural rights of citizens, the addition of gender identity and sexual orientation actually imposes a set of government granted privileges upon all people and restricts our freedoms, the freedoms of our most vulnerable to be safe. This is a violation of governments duty to protect the rights all individuals are born with. Any objections to these special rights carved out by an allpowerful government and imposed from the State can be met with the heavy hand of law that can then impose the will of one group upon other groups leaving no protections for personal Freedom.Please remove the language guaranteeing privileged class to a select few Iowans.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
I am opposed to HF 583.
02-27-2025
Katie Hansen []
CON
My name is Katie Hansen, and I fervently oppose this bill which would ignite a steep descent into discrimination for all Iowans, not just those who identify as transgender. If the representatives we've elected choose to discredit an entire denomination of people within the state, that indicates to the people that we no longer matter. Our voices have been loud, we have mailed, and spoken out, and yet, if this bill passes, we know that our governance of the people by the people and for the people no longer applies. As representatives of the people, you are not required to agree or even like each person you represent, however, as the people, we do ask that you represent us, and not the propaganda of a billionaire steadfastly seeding chaos. If Iowa wants to be remembered as a place of hardworking, kind, and compassionate people, now is the time to ensure that history doesn't die. Now is the time to VOTE NO on HF 583.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
I urge you to oppose HF 583, which would remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This is an unprecedented and dangerous stepno state has ever voted to strip an entire group of people of their civil rights. Regardless of personal beliefs, we should all agree that once the government starts selectively removing protections, no group is safe. Today, its gender identity; tomorrow, it could be disability, religion, or political affiliation. This bill sets a precedent that threatens the fundamental principles of fairness and equality under the law. Iowa has long valued individual freedoms and protections from government overreach. We should not be the first state to open the door to stripping away civil rights. Please stand on the right side of historyvote NO on HF 583.
02-27-2025
Susan Junis []
CON
This bill is a betrayal of the promise written on the Iowa state flag: "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain". I'm not sure what the Republican obsession is with transgender people. There has never been a world without transgender people and there never will be. Trans Iowans are our brothers, sisters, siblings, parents, loved ones, children, and beloved community members. I don't know why we even have to say this removing rights from entire groups of people is fascist, authoritarian behavior. You are saying to Iowans, and to the world, "there are some people who do not deserve to be treated as full human beings." You do not get to decide that. To the Iowans reading this who do not support transgender rights, I say that in the future you will look back in shame at the harm you have caused. To trans Iowans, I say that you are loved and needed. Please do what you need to do to protect yourself. Your mere existence is resistance. I will stand by you, always.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose HF 583, and plead with the house to reject the bill. Its immoral to allow for the discrimination of transgender individuals, and believe that this bill will cause irreparable harm to our communities and marginalized folks. Please vote against HF 583/HSB 242.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is a complete waste of taxpayer money that purports to solve a problem that doesnt exist. Why are you spending time and money on this frivolous issue? No wonder people are leaving this state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Lauren Parsons LMT Education Group]
CON
Please uphold our state motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain". Allowing transgender folks to be fired and denied housing will lead to increased poverty, homelessness, and utilization of state resources. This bill does not protect women in the state of Iowa but opens the door to gential inspections among other civil rights violations against all women. This is a waste of time, you should be focusing on the growing cancer rates in the state, the poor water quality, the disasterous impacts tarriffs will have on our farmers and the already shameful number of Iowans, especially veterans and children, living without food, shelter and medical attention.
02-27-2025
Angela Romero [Concerned Citizen]
CON
I urge all of our legislators to vote against this bill. The bill is an attack on transgender people, intersex people, and gender nonconforming people. . Legislating away civil rights for any group of people is wrong. Everyone has a gender identity and noone should be discriminated against for theirs. All Iowans deserve safe and fair access to housing, education, and financial services. This bill is fundamentally wrong.
02-27-2025
Nikki Battle []
CON
Just stop. The foundation of hate that people are standing on is atrocious. Every person deserves dignity, respect and safety. Rights should not be reserved for just those few who are deemed worthy by the oppressor.
02-27-2025
Larry Alvin Christensen [Personal ]
CON
Who does this bill help? It is contrary to the spirit of our Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be selfevident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.It is contrary to Jesus teaching in Luke 6:37, 38:Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.for the measure you give will be the measure you will get back. And verse 36: Be merciful just as your Father is merciful.How can you claim to want a smaller government, and want to control the most intimate parts of a human being life: their self understanding?
02-27-2025
Carol Bowen []
CON
Please respect the rights of all!
02-27-2025
Chris Bonifazi [City of Cedar Rapids]
CON
Embarrassing, distracting, divisive please wake up Republican Iowa. Can we focus for a minute, and stop "uniting" over fear of the other. Time to grow up.
02-27-2025
Lori Brinkley []
CON
As a resident of Iowa I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person. I urge you to vote **NO** on SF418, striking gender identity from the Iowa civil rights Act. This bill would strip transgender Iowans of critical civil rights protections, allowing discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations. It would also prevent individuals from updating their birth certificates and weaken protections for all Iowans who do not fit traditional gender norms.I personally know many transgender individuals. They are my neighbors, friends, family members, and members of my faith community. I believe everyone deserves equal protection under the law as listed in the Iowa Civil Rights Act, including gender identity. Taking away these rights for any one of the protected classes contradicts the core values of justice, compassion, and fairness which guide both our faith and our democracy. This bill is immoral, dangerous, and mean. It takes rights away from our Iowa neighbors. Iowa's moto says Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain. It has been stated that gender identity as a protected class raises the rights of transgender individuals above the rights of women. Not true, the civil rights protections for gender identity does not over ride women's rights, it only protects Gender diverse people from discrimination. No transgender individual wants to remove any women's rights or endanger women's lives. Transgender people stand up for women's rights including reproductive rights unlike many Republican legislators. Gender diverse people just want to live their lives peacefully and safely without discrimination. An additional item to consider is if you pass this bill transgender men will be required to use women's restrooms. Do you really want that?
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Pass the bill. Trans do not deserve rights due to their perversion! My right is to keep them from my business.
02-27-2025
Kayla Cleland []
CON
As an Iowan constituent, I, along with the hundreds of other Iowans who have spoken out, OPPOSE this bill and urge you to reject it. This bill will have devastating economic consequences on our communities and does nothing to target real issues Iowans are facing.
02-27-2025
Dylan Brooks-Forseth [None]
CON
Enough of the culture wars. It is time to start focusing on the issues you campaigned on. The REAL issues affecting every day Iowans. You all shouted from the roof tops about the price of groceries, inflation this, inflation that. Since January 20th, it has been silence. Nothing but attack after attack on the most vulnerable in this community. You all claim you are doing what the majority of Iowans want. I can tell you right now, by simply looking at the sheer outrage across the state stemming from this bill that the majority of Iowans do NOT want this. However, even if it was the majority of Iowans also want abortion access, and don't support ESA's. I don't see any of you ramming through legislation to restore abortion access or repeal ESA's. The excuses no longer work. Remember, this will forever be etched into our history. Your name will be tied to this, for your kids and grandkids and great grandkids and so on to remember you by. Is this what you want to be remembered by?
02-27-2025
Jenica Johnson []
CON
Please don't allow our state to be a place that openly accepts and encourages discrimination. All Iowans deserve the right to live their lives with respect, dignity, and security. Every individual, regardless of gender identity, deserves the opportunity to live authentically and safely. Transgender people in Iowa already face disproportionate rates of discrimination, violence, and marginalization in Iowa. This bill would make their lives even harder, amplifying the stigma and harmful rhetoric that already affects them.Please remember these people are your constituents. A vote for in favor of this bill is you inflicting a blatant outright attack on a group of your constituents. Why would you purposefully harm your fellow Iowans? Treat others as you would like to be treated.
02-27-2025
Thomas Trinidad []
CON
I OPPOSE this bill. After reviewing it further, this seems to be an effort to further weaken the divide between church and state, which our country is fundamentally built on. Do not take Iowa backwards, please.
02-27-2025
Lauren Magnani []
CON
Please register my deep opposition to HF 583 (just as I was opposed to HSB 242)! As a taxpayer, homeowner, spouse and mother, I ask you to also oppose and vote down this bill. The Iowa state motto is "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain." But this bill seeks to do the opposite, stripping rights away from its own citizens. It is a waste of taxpayer dollars. And it fosters a space for hate to grow in our state. It is not the place of government to change the language by which people define themselves. It is not the place of government to take rights or protections away from a swathe of the population. This bill is a thinly veiled attempt to further marginalize Iowans that do not fit a narrow binary structure. I personally know people that have decided to move away from Iowa, to other states that do not waste time and energy on discriminatory bills. How is that relevant? HF 583 is a prime example of proposed legislation that will exclude, discriminate against our neighbors, contradict the notion of goodwill toward others. Iowans should not be made to live in fear of their neighbors or their own government! If we want people to actually choose to live in this state, we should be focusing on actions and bills that actually HELP PEOPLE, not HURT them! All Iowans deserve to be protected under the law, regardless of their identity. Please, BE BRAVE! Do not allow legislation that demonizes minorities and our fellow citizens. I do not want my daughter growing up in a state that rejects basic human rights and decency toward our fellow human beings. If you allow rights and protections to be taken away from one group of people, there will be nothing stopping that injustice from spreading to other vulnerable groups of our citizenry! Stop this now; you have the power to make Iowans proud of your service! I again ask you to OPPOSE and VOTE NO on HF 583! With respect, from this concerned constituent.
02-27-2025
Daniel Mills [n/a]
CON
My name is Daniel Mills, and I urge you to reject HF 583. This bill removes basic civil rights protections for our transgender neighbors and fellow Iowans.Iowa has been my proud home state, a place where my family and friends live, work, go to school, and enjoy a life full of opportunities. All Iowans, including our transgender loved ones, deserve to be treated fairly and equally under the laws of our state. This bill would turn the clock back on basic protections for things like renting an apartment, signing up for a credit card, or finding work for a group of our neighbors who already face marginalization in today's intensifying antitrans politics.I am a mental health professional. I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve my community by providing mental health care to anyone who is struggling. Every week at work, I hear the stories of my transgender clients, the ways they have been traumatized, abused, or rejected by not just those close to them but also institutions. I hear how bills like HSB242 weigh on their mental health and contribute to feelings of isolation and wellfounded fears of discrimination. We must do all we can to create a welcoming, caring environment in Iowa for my clients and all transgender Iowans.Vote no on HF 583. Ensure all Iowans are protected under the law.
02-27-2025
Amanda Holmes [Fort Dodge Human Rights Commission]
CON
I strongly oppose HF583 and SF418, which would remove gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. These bills would undermine the rights and dignity of transgender Iowans, encourage discrimination, and erase the identity of those who dont fit outdated gender norms. I urge you to reject them.Iowa has been a leader in civil rights, and since 2007, our state has protected gender identity to ensure that all residents can live, work, and participate in society without fear of discrimination. Removing these protections would be a dangerous step backward.This bill would harm transgender Iowans and weaken essential protections in housing, employment, education, and public accommodations. It would also hurt Iowas economy and reputation, making our state less welcoming and less competitive.I ask that you stand with the Fort Dodge Human Rights Commission in defending the rights of all Iowans and ensuring that Iowa remains a place of opportunity, fairness, and inclusion.
02-27-2025
Beth Wilson []
CON
Maintain Iowa's strong civil rights and let the state be a leader. Don't take us backwards.
02-27-2025
Sandra Baringer []
CON
There are approximately 40 known intersex conditions, chromosomal, hormonal, and/or structural. Estimates of their prevalence in the general population range from 0.018% to 1.7%, not usually not physically observable at birth and often not diagnosed properly until much later in life if at all. There is a lot still to be learned. When people say there are only two sexes, they just sound dumb.There is no reason to take away the civil rights of a small and increasingly defenseless minority just to police women's sports or restrooms and locker rooms. Sports associations are capable of policing themselves, and we'd probably all like more privacy in restrooms, but examining people's genitals to verify whether they're in the 'correct' restroom is not going to make anybody feel safer.I'm a woman and my rights, and my daughter's and granddaughter's rights, are not being protected by this bill. If it passes, I will be embarrassed to live in this state. Please vote against it.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
Hate has no place in our state.
02-27-2025
Alyssa McCoy []
CON
02-27-2025
Karen Hammes []
CON
This bill is wrong for Iowa. It will NOT protect women and children. It will cruelly strip civil rights protections for transgender Iowans.This bill is wrought out of unjustified fear. Trans folks just want to live their lives like everyone else without fear of persecution and harassment. The Iowa state motto our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain should remain true for EVERY IOWAN!!!!
02-27-2025
Marcy Toal []
CON
VOTE NO ON HF583. I would like to remind members of the Iowa Legislature that "womanhood" cannot be absolutely and unambiguously determined by anatomy, chromosomes, or reproductive cell size. Each of these observable characteristics is not absolute, and potentially excludes some individuals. Attempts to codify such a faulty definition into law is sexist and patriarchal, and ultimately harmful to women. Discrimination on the basis of an observable characteristic is still discrimination, whether that characteristic is immutable or not. If the Iowa Legislature wishes to exclude transgender people as a protected class on the basis that "gender identity" is not an immutable characteristic, I would also remind the Legislature that "religious faith" is not an immutable characteristic either. Given the same line of reasoning, that should also be excluded as a protected class.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please uphold our state motto: "Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain". Allowing transgender folks to be fired and denied housing will lead to increased poverty, homelessness, and utilization of state resources. This bill does not protect women in the state of Iowa but opens the door to gential inspections, among other civil rights violations, against all women. This is a waste of time; you should be focusing on the growing cancer rates in the state, the poor water quality, the disastrous impacts tariffs will have on our farmers, and the already shameful number of Iowans, especially veterans and children, living without food, shelter, and medical attention.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is a frivolous issue that is wasting our tax dollars and your time. What harm is this going to correct? We are portraying our state as an uncaring and cruel entity. Its little wonder that our population is shrinking we are not a welcoming state.
02-27-2025
Brian []
CON
Imagine living in a country where we have 700,000 people without homes, nearly 7 million unemployed, 26 million with no health insurance, and 30% of all households living paycheck to paycheck, and yet the only thing republicans care about is controlling whats between our legs. So many people have no jobs, no reliable healthcare, no relief on cost of living, and no hope, but at least Joe isnt allowed to identify as Josephine anymore. Thanks, that really solves everything
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Transgender Iowans deserve to live, work and exist without fear and discrimination. This bill would set a harmful precedent in our state and in our country. This bill is cruel and unnecessary and it is decidedly unChristian. It benefits no one. This is bully behavior to single out and infringe upon the already marginalized small group of Iowans that make up only .22% of our state population. Iowans arent asking for this legislation. Please focus your time and energy on issues that Iowans actually care about like education and our economy. Is this the legacy you want to leave for our state? Taking away rights that would directly harm our neighbors and fellow citizens? This bill helps no one. I urge our legislature to have heart and decency for our fellow Iowans and that you vehemently oppose this harmful bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None ]
CON
Do not support discrimination. You are choosing very specific language that is going to make everything harder for a trans person to live here. I suppose that is what you want. Hate doesnt attract good people to our state. Do not support this.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose HF583. The removal of protections for gender identity from Iowas Civil Rights Act is unconscionable. The anecdotes presented as evidence of need for action in this matter add up to a barely perceptible formation of a flimsy argument. I am particularly disturbed that this has been portrayed as a form of adding protections for women and their safety. Where were these concerns for the safety of women when the neartotal abortion ban was put in place in Iowa? Is this all we are capable of as a species? This endless cycle of humans deciding other humans arent as good as them is getting old. Please introduce bills with an original thought or idea to actually represent your constituents in a meaningful way, without hate, without making yourself feel superior, for the benefit of all the humans in your community, please.
02-27-2025
Rosemary Kirlin []
CON
I oppose this law because I oppose excluding any human being from the right to live with basic civil rights. Every human being, that includes every transgender person, is a child of God and is someones son, daughter, niece, nephew, grandchild or godchild. No one in this legislature, governors office or state has the right to legalize or promote hate against any individual or group; especially against transgender people who have a history of being subjected to abuse, violence and murder for being different.This bill does not correct any harm that has occurred to Iowans. In fact transgender people never harmed children or girls or even men who are fragile in their masculinity. The horror stories told about transgender people in a school in Virginia never happened and that story was retracted after that entirely f as law and fabricated story started making the rounds on conservative media. Nor do I believe this law is being promoted to protect women and girls in Iowa. The same people who are promoting this discriminatory law have passed laws that strip Iowa women from having control over our own reproductive choices and have denied women bodily autonomy and therefore have stripped women of the full civil rights men in our society have regarding reproductive choice. The same legislators have restricted access to abortions to such an extend that Iowa now has the fewest OB doctors per population of any U.S. state. The shortage of access to qualified OB care has increased Iowas infant and maternal mortality rate. That is not protecting women or girls. Not allowing women and families to make their own reproductive decisions adversely affects womens health and it also adversely affects the current and future economic wellbeing of women and their families. I also believe as a lifelong Catholic with a degree in Theology that promoting hatred for any individual or group including transgender people is immoral and unjust and is a violation of the Gospel teachings of Christ. For anyone who claims to be a Christian, promoting hatred if and discrimination against others is anathema to the teachings of the person we claim to follow. Promoting discrimination against others was characteristic of the Pharisees and Sadducees in the Gospels who Christ accused of blatant hypocrisy. You may disagree but the Gospels are quite clear that we are to love others as we love ourselves, not hate or discriminate against others; and that all people are our neighbors and must be treated with respect and cared for, not just those who look like us, think or worship like us, or who love who we love. I believe every human being deserves full civil rights and deserves to live, love and work in peace without discriminatory laws to make their lives difficult, painful or subject to violence.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I strongly oppose this bill as both a friend and a family member to transgender folks, as an ally, and as a human being. Respecting and celebrating the identities of the members of our community is essential for creating a more humane world, and while the transition towards respect and acceptance takes decades before it becomes a part of who we are as a culture, the law is a helpful road towards this transition. The Civil Rights Act of 1964a piece of legislation now 60 years oldcodified into law that we as a nation could not legally discriminate against people on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, or nation of origin. This Civil Act had to be in place in order to protect a wide variety of minorities who would have otherwise been ignored by the protection of law, and it was essential for government support to ensure that such minorities were able to share in all the USA has to offer. Transgender folks require the protection of the law, because in this country today there still exists a body of people who do not what to respect, celebrate, or even acknowledge the existence of transgender folks. The tomes of history reveal that transgender people have existed since the very earliest human societies were built, yet century by century this group of people becomes the Red Herring to distract citizens from issues such as class inequality, poverty, and political corruption. This is unjust to both the community at large and to the transgender community. Please do not strip these protections from our beloved transgender neighbors and expect this world to be a better place if you do. Protect your neighbors, all of them, with all the grace and strength that the law can protect them with.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Private citizen]
CON
Con, con, con. Please do not pass this. Trans people hurt no one. You protect no one with this. You only harm.
02-27-2025
Raeann Lary []
PRO
Dear Chairman Holt, Vice Chairman Lawler, Ranking Member James, and members of the Judiciary Committee,Please support HF 583. The designation of male and female is Biblical, traditional, and common sense.This bill is very important to help preserve freedom in our state in many facets such as healthcare, sports, correctional facilites, and schools.This is crucial for Iowa to get corrected at this key time in our history.Thank you for your time. Respectfully,Raeann Lary
02-27-2025
Ashley Vanorny [Councilmember ]
CON
Please do not do this. This is morally unjust. I have a trans family member. They pay taxes, they deserve to realize the full force of the Iowas mottoto maintain their rights and prize their liberties. They deserve to be free from discrimination, regardless of whether someone understands what being transgender is. They deserve to seek employment, and be judged based on their merit of their work. They deserve to seek shelter and own and rent a home of their choosing. They deserve to be worthy of a loan based on the merit of their credit worthiness not based on their gender identity.My trans family member is hard working, loving, a good family member. They deserve dignity and respect as any human being does. They are not bothering anyone and no Christian can justify this blatant hatred towards our community members.This does not help Iowas economy, this does not help us recruit and retain talent. This is an incredulous precedent that would ensure people would face unwarranted and lifethreatening discrimination. This is not the Iowa I know and not the Iowa that we need to have. Please vote no.Thank you to the courageous state legislators who have already thwarted this horrendous and dangerous bill. Lead with love, and vote no.
02-27-2025
Josh Nannestad []
CON
Besides the obvious why would we make it easier to discriminate against a vulnerable population? this action willfurther push Iowa into irrelevance. Small towns dying because our youth are all moving to Minnesota and Colorado. Its not a coincidence, its foolish actions such as this bill. Please vote no so that my young family and hundreds more will stay, pay taxes, and enrich our state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Citizen]
CON
Do not vote in favor of this. Turn your attention to more important issues. These people are human beings.
02-27-2025
Kara Eischen [[]]
CON
I write to voice my opposition to HF 583 and urge you to vote no. This bill will harm Iowans. This bill will strip the rights away from human beings. This bill will cost lives. HF 583 does not protect anyone. It harms everyone. Trans rights are human rights. Trans people deserve the same rights and protections that all people have. There is language in this bill that is frighteningly similar to the "separate but equal" doctrinea doctrine that faciliated and allowed flagrant discrimination, hatred, and violence. That is what HF 583 will do. Separate has never been and will never be equal. HF 583 is an abomination to democracy, equality, and justice.Removing a protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act is an extreme, dystopian measure that should be blocked and rejected at all costs. If one protected class can be so easily removed, so can others. Removing gender identity will be catastrophic. Employers will be able to discriminate against trans employees with no reprecussions. Trans people will live in even more fear and be subjected to more cruel treatment. HF 583 is dangerous and a threat to democracy. It wrecklessly disregards the rights of Iowans, and of human beings. There is no legitimate basis for HF 583. There is no good that will come from this bill. Only harm. Please vote no to hate. Please vote no to discrimination. Please vote no to violence. Please vote no to "separate but equal." Please vote no to putting trans lives in danger. Please vote no to HF 583.
02-27-2025
Michael Raven [Individual ]
CON
Please do not remove rights and protections from people in Iowa. Everyone deserves to live, work, be educated, housed regardless of their gender identity, race, sex, sexual orientation, religion.
02-27-2025
Crystal Greer []
CON
Iowa got things right nearly two decades ago by recognizing gender identity under its civil rights legislation. Why would we erase such progress, encourage hate & discrimination, and leave so many of our fellow Iowans vulnerable...?!? People often fixate on things they don't understand, and the "scary words" that circulate their news & social media echo chambers. I can assure you that more than trans and gender non conforming folks will be harmed by this. Biology is far more complicated than x and y, and when we adhere to this archaic (and incorrect) binary view and strict gender norms we encourage hateful attacks on people simply because they're "too tall", "too short", "too strong", "too weak", etc. of their perceived biological sex. When we shouldn't be perceiving anyones sex nor gender. Embrace Iowa and midwest nice and say no to this nonsense.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Myself, a person concerned for humanity]
CON
This bill alienates an entire group of people. Legitimate, real people. People who just want to be acknowledged for who they are. No one wakes up one day and decides that they want to be a different gender. It is years of self discovery, struggle, heartache. This is not just trans people, it is intersex as well. I would feel safer in a bathroom with a transwoman than I would with any member of this legislature.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Please vote against this bill. Besides being entirely unconstitutional, it sets an incredibly dangerous precedent. Trans people are not dangerous, they are people. This bill will kill far more PEOPLE than it will "protect," as you apparently believe you are doing. Please, if you truly care about keeping Iowa free, vote against this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I find it appalling that the rights of the American people are on the chopping block. Trans people ARE people. Worrying about what genitalia a person has is disgusting and dehumanizing. This is an attack on ALL American people. Civil Rights are required for the good of humanity. This is not about personal prejudice. This is about harming the American people. The Holocaust did not happen overnight. You can not just erase a group of people. Just because something doesn't effect you personally, doesn't mean it is not important. The Maga agenda is the end of the American Dream.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Amy Schafer Real Estate]
CON
As a real estate agent, civil rights for everyone is very important and I am speaking directly to fair housing so that everyone has an opportunity to not only have the benefits of safe and clean shelter, but also the financial opportunities that come with homeownership. Please do not start taking rights away from our citizens of Iowa!
02-27-2025
Casey Hart [Personal ]
CON
This bill is just an amplification of hateful rhetoric. I'm an engineer, I moved to Iowa 13 years ago for employment. I have multiple patents, I've helped a few boys obtain the rank of Eagle Scout. I've spent countless hours serving in the community in projects like Days of Caring, as well as helping dozens of my neighbors move. I've paid my taxes, honored the law. And for all this it amazes me that there are some who think that just because I'm transgender and struggle with gender dysphoria that that makes it ok to fire me, or deny me a loan, or kick me out of housing? Is this really what we stand for in the US? One can not vote for this bill and honestly claim that they care for others.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [MSW St. Ambrose University ]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the proposed antitrans rights bill. This legislation poses a significant threat to the wellbeing and fundamental rights of transgender individuals, particularly transgender youth. I urge you to consider the following points: * Mental Health Impacts: * Research demonstrates that antitransgender legislation has a severe negative impact on the mental health of transgender individuals. Studies have shown a significant increase in suicide attempts among transgender youth in states with such legislation. * For example, research from The Trevor Project has shown that "antitransgender laws increased past yearsuicide attempts among transgender and nonbinary youth by as much as 72%." (The Trevor Project) * Also research from Rutgers university, has also shown the detremental effect these bills have on transgender youth. (Research Highlights the Dangers of AntiTrans Legislation) * These laws create a climate of fear and discrimination, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. * Access to Healthcare: * Many antitrans bills aim to restrict or ban access to genderaffirming care, which is medically necessary for many transgender individuals. * Denying access to this care can have devastating consequences for their physical and mental health. * The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has compiled data that reinforces the negative impacts antitransgender laws have on health, including the reduction of access to necessary healthcare. (THE IMPACTS OF ANTITRANSGENDER LAWS AND POLICIES ACLU) * Discrimination and Civil Rights: * These bills often promote discrimination and violate the basic civil rights of transgender individuals. * Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their gender identity. * Antitrans legislation erodes the fundamental principles of equality and fairness. * The importance of scientific consensus: * Major medical associations, including the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association, support genderaffirming care and oppose discriminatory legislation. These organizations recognize that gender identity is a valid and important aspect of a person's identity.I implore you to consider the harmful consequences of this legislation and to stand on the side of equality and compassion. I urge you to vote against this bill and to support policies that protect the rights and wellbeing of all transgender individuals.Key sources used: * The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/antitransgenderlawscauseupto72increaseinsuicideattemptsamongtransgenderandnonbinaryyouthstudyshows/ * Rutgers university: https://research.rutgers.edu/news/researchhighlightsdangersantitranslegislation * ACLU: https://assets.aclu.org/live/uploads/2024/08/ImpactAntiTransLawResearchBriefFINAL.pdf * American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/topics/lgbtq/mentalhealthantitransgenderlegislation
02-27-2025
Erin Casey [Author]
CON
Please vote no on this bill. Civil rights protect trans people from being discriminated against when looking for housing, jobs, etc. They're basic human rights! Are we really going to allow jobs and housing to reject trans folks based on their gender? They already have to struggle daily with discrimination. At the very least they should have a safe place to live and work. Trans folk and LGBTQIA+ folk are not the enemy.
02-27-2025
Claire []
CON
REJECT HF583. This bill is incredibly harmful and discriminatory. IOWA LAWMAKERS NONE OF US WANT THIS FOCUS ON LEGISLATING POSITIVE CHANGES FOR ALL IOWANS (accessible healthcare, water quality, good public education, affordable housing, public transit would be great places to start). denying your citizens their rights is UNACCEPTABLE. DO BETTER.
02-27-2025
Christina Johnson-Barger [Citizen]
CON
As a parent, a community member, a citizen, and a cisgendered woman, I am against any bill that removes rights from someone based on gender. Science determining gender is not as straight forward as xx or xy chromosomes and body parts. For example, hormones affect the brain during fetal development. So, someone may be born with female genitalia but a male brain or vice versa. How does this government body know if someone has a male or female brain regardless of their body parts? There should be no government that can decide for a person their gender. There can be a gender assigned at birth, but only an individual knows their true gender. We are ALL simply HUMAN. Isn't that enough?!
02-27-2025
Suzanne Marie Cody []
CON
There is nothing behind this bill but hate and ignorance. There is no purpose to this bill but to accommodate hate and ignorance. No one is being protected. It is simply an effort to erase an imaginary enemy, to coalesce and validate hatred. WE have families. We are a part of your community. We have jobs, we own businesses, we pay taxes. We have children. And we hurt no one by our existence. The people who are the problem, the enemy, are those who feel they have a right to debate the fact that people simply exist, feel they have the right to decide whether they should be permitted to exist. Stop 583.
02-27-2025
Andrew Hilmes []
CON
02-27-2025
Laura Engler [None]
CON
If you don't know about the causes of gender dysphoria (Mayo Clinic.org), please take the time to educate yourself.It is not neccesary to take away this group's civil rights in order for the rest of us to live fulfilling lives.
02-27-2025
Michael Leners []
CON
Im against this bill passing. It strips away too many rights and protections.
02-27-2025
Betty Zan []
CON
This bill is hateful and unnecessary. Trans persons are CITIZENS, and they deserve the same rights as everyone else. PLEASE VOTE NO.
02-27-2025
Ashley Merkley []
CON
Please vote no on HF 583. I am very concerned about the consequences that this bill would have and we should not be rolling back civil rights protections for ANY group of people doing so is wrong to the point of being immoral and actually against our own state motto our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. I have friends who are transgender and friends who are nonbinary, and they deserve to have the same legal protections from discrimination that I do as a cisgender woman. You dont have to understand peoples experiences to respect and protect them and we must protect everyones civil rights. When I previously read through the public comments, there were 413 PAGES worth of them, mostly in opposition to this legislation. Most people in Iowa want to ensure that civil rights are protected; dont go against the will of the people. Transgender people exist, have always existed and always will, and Im proud of them for living their truths when they are often ridiculed, misunderstood, or otherwise harmed. They simply want to be able to live their lives just like the rest of us and deserve to be able to do so!! Be on the correct side of history and continue protecting gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Thank you for your time and consideration.
02-27-2025
Marlene Franzen []
CON
A person with a transgender identity is a real person, same as any other human. It is a scientific name that identifies them, same as male or female. Some people are just born different. That doesn't make it wrong. Some people are born with extra chromosomes and both sexual orientations. That doesn't make it wrong. By canceling there existence you are saying their life isn't worth anything. This is not a Bible issue this is an ignorance issue. The bill is choosing church over state. The laws are supposed to protect the citizens, all the citizens no matter what! If you take away their rights you are subjecting them to the cruelty and disrespect of the so called above the law and holier than though people. So do what's right and protect the citizens of this state and ultimately this country!
02-27-2025
Hector Pagan [Central Iowa DSA]
CON
I cant think of anything more vile and small and pathetic than terrorizing the smallest, most vulnerable community of people who want nothing from you, except the right to exist.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I believe this bill is a waste of time when the legislation could be voting on problems that could better the people in Iowa rather than attack a small set of people that have not caused any public harm
02-27-2025
Sherri Zastroe []
CON
Please do not take civil rights away from the transgendered. Vote NO. All people deserve the same protections and freedoms.
02-27-2025
Cody Howell [Self]
CON
Please do not allow our state to legally allow discrimination. All Iowans deserve to be safe in this state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Ames Pride ]
CON
Let people live
02-27-2025
A Flatt [Private Citizen]
CON
This bill is unnecessary and cruel. You are attempting to remove the Civil Rights of trans people and acting as if they dont exist. Passage of this bill will increase discrimination and harassment against trans people just trying to live their lives. I am a woman who doesnt feel threatened by sharing spaces with trans people. I have never seen anyone elses genitals in a public restroom. We use stalls, not urinals. Male to female transsexuals are not men. In terms of sports, there are what you refer to as naturalborn women who are much larger and stronger than most men. Take a look at the WNBA roster. Passage of this bill will result in unnecessary harassment of women who are larger than most men. We will see more cases like Natalie Hill in Utah. She publicly accused a nontrans female athlete as being trans. If you pass this bill, whose right will you come for next? Bigotry and hatred are discriminatory and should not be protected as free speech.
02-27-2025
Don McCormick [Private Citizen]
CON
A proposal that seeks to deny Transgender Iowans their fundamental rights is a disgrace to our state, nation, and the people who live here. Transgender individuals are part of every communityyour relatives, your neighbors, the cashiers at stores, and brilliant thinkers in many fields. They pose no threat to society. Their sole aim is to live lives that are fulfilling and joyful, just like anyone else. Many of you likely interact with transgender individuals daily, perhaps without even realizing it. This bill would violate the basic rights of transgender Iowans, including their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. However, this seems to be the intended outcome. The only apparent purpose of this bill is to enable hateful people to penalize transgender people for simply existingby jeopardizing their job and housing security and permitting open discrimination. If this bill passes, which group will be targeted next?
02-27-2025
Sharon Rodriguez []
CON
This is a hideous attempt to take basic human rights away from a segment of our population that is already victimized. It is discrimination at its worst. I can't find the words to tell you how sad it makes me for this oncegreat state that legislator would actually even consider such a discriminatory bill.
02-27-2025
Nicholas J Huff []
CON
This bill helps no one. It is a step in the wrong direction for Iowa and the country. Shame on you or any one who supports a bill that does nothing but strip away basic human rights from someone for simply just existing. Trans people are here, they always have been, and the always will be. History will not look kindly on this if it passes. Look to your conscience and preserve the freedoms and liberties called out in our state motto.
02-27-2025
Doug Aupperle []
CON
I am speaking as a concerned mental health professional.It is clearly and robustly demonstrated as fact that the stress of discrimination increases adverse mental health impacts and suffering, including increased incidence of suicide. This bill will will result in real harm. Protecting one group of people should not be done at the expense of and harm to another. Please find another path that protects everyone equally. Please dont be complicit in the suffering and deaths that will result if you stay on this path with this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [none]
PRO
Protect my daughter.
02-27-2025
Justin L Stevens []
CON
House File 583 is a direct attack on the rights and dignity of transgender and nonbinary Iowans. This bill enforces a rigid, outdated, and scientifically flawed definition of sex and gender, stripping legal protections from one of Iowas most vulnerable communities. By removing "gender identity" as a protected class, it effectively legalizes discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public services, making it harder for transgender individuals to live openly and safely.Furthermore, the bills restrictions on school curricula prevent students from learning about the existence and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering ignorance and exclusion. This erasure does not protect childrenit isolates and harms those who do not conform to narrowly defined gender roles. The attempt to ban gender marker changes on birth certificates and other legal documents disregards the medical and psychological realities of gender transition, forcing transgender people to carry inaccurate documentation that increases their risk of discrimination and violence.The claim that separate accommodations based on biological sex do not constitute discrimination is a thinly veiled justification for excluding transgender people from public life. This bill is not about protecting privacy or fairnessit is about enshrining statesponsored discrimination into law.Iowans deserve laws that uphold equality and dignity for all residents, regardless of gender identity. House File 583 is an unjust, harmful measure that moves Iowa backward instead of forward. It should be opposed in the strongest terms to ensure that all individualsespecially transgender and nonbinary peopleare treated with the respect and legal protections they deserve.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/a]
CON
I think its wrong to be walking back any civil rights protections for transgender people. They just want to live peace. Taking away their rights will only cause harm towards them.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am against this bill. All people, including trans and all LGBTQ+ people deserve civil and equal rights as any human being in Iowa and the USA. No person or government should have the ability to define a person in any way nor govern how they should be treated.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
David A Roed [Voting Iowa Citizen ]
CON
This bill seems counterproductive to our state motto on our flag, ie: removing the rights of Iowa citizens. "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain"
02-27-2025
Karla Frasher [Iowa constituent ]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Self]
CON
I dont support HF 583. Taking away protection from discrimination is unAmerican and sets the precedent for other rights to be removed. If this bill passes many good people will leave the state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
No US citizen should have their rights limited due to race religion or sex. We are all equal and must be treated with respect and dignity. No individual or group has the right to decide for another what they must do with their own body.
02-27-2025
G.Owens [Alliance]
CON
It is so disheartening after many have fought so long and are currently still fighting for rights, to make them feel whole as a human being. Everyone should be respected. To rewrite history when it was such a huge and hard fight for Trans and LGBTQ+ to have those basic rights , it is disgraceful. I do not agree with this bill and I strongly stand & support my family and friends who this directly affects!
02-27-2025
Kim J []
CON
Ive been a proud Iowan for nearly 60 years, and I strongly oppose SF418. This bill does not reflect the values of the Iowa I know and love. Why are you targeting people who are simply trying to live their lives with dignity and respect?
02-27-2025
Kimberly Kelley [Mothers for Human Rights]
CON
President Trump, on the campaign trail, promised to stop our tax dollars from spending money on sex change operations. He also promised to remove biological males from women's sports. He did not say he would discriminate against transgender people. As a matter of fact, he said he would NOT do this and allow adults to choose to live how they wanted to. This bill, if passed, would allow for discrimination of a minority group of people who are adults who have undergone gender transition. Those living in Iowa, are tax paying citizens who contribute to society. They want to live their lives in peace, not in fear. They want to be in a state where they can safely live and contribute to society. You will be stripping them of this. Do you really want to target a minority group of people? Is this really the agenda of the current administration, to target American citizens for discrimination?
02-27-2025
Jean Treder []
CON
If recently passed transgenderaimed laws conflict with the Iowa Civil Rights Acts, please change those laws. It is not the current Civil Rights Acts that is in the wrong, but the laws that are in conflict with it.That the State of Iowa thinks it has authority to declare its own limiting definition of the whole range of human nature, does not make it so. Do not take away civil rights from those who just are what they are.Documented harm has come to transgender people just because they are transgender. The public "costs" of providing trans care is minimal compared to the costs for lifestyle/controllable diseases and conditions (smoking, diet, distracted driving, etc.) that the State covers without any seeming complaint.
02-27-2025
David M. Grant [None]
CON
Do not take away our liberties to live as we choose!
02-27-2025
Brian Nowosatka []
CON
This bill is unnecessarily cruel and restrictive, using outdated modes of thinking to target a minority group. It seeks to roll back progress based on nothing more than the a manufactured panic. It does not serve the needs of Iowans.
02-27-2025
Danielle Timmerman []
CON
Should this bill pass, I will be ashamed to be an Iowan. How dare you invalidate the experiences of an entire group of people. Shame on you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
Please vote to pass this bill for limiting gender to only female or male. In other states, transgender girls (biological boys) have been raping girls in school restrooms. The school knew this was happening and allowed it to continue. The transgender girl/ biological boy was allowed to rape many other girls before the incidents was exposed to the parents. Transgender girls/biological boys have been allowed to rape biological women in prisons, public restroom, and locker rooms through "transgender rights" to use whatever restroom/locker room they want. As a sexual abuse survivor, I'm scared going into a public restroom or locker room. I wonder if I will be raped if I use a public restroom or locker room. "Transgender rights" should not infringe on a biological woman's right.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Myself]
CON
I am writing to express my strong opposition to SF 418 and HSB 242, which would strip gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. This blatant attack on basic human rights is not only unjust but also deeply alarming.Removing these protections sends a clear message that some Iowans are less deserving of dignity, safety, and equality under the law. If you start here, where does it end? Are you coming for the rest of the LGBTQ+ community next? Are you coming for womens rights? Once we begin dismantling protections, how do you justify stopping?I was raised by a mother who taught me that all humans matterthat every person deserves respect, dignity, and equal treatment. She showed me, through her words and actions, that standing up for others is not optional; it is a responsibility. Because of her, I know what is right, and I know this bill is wrong. What message does it send to kids like me when lawmakers try to strip away rights from our peers, our friends, and our future colleagues? That some peoples existence is negotiable? That the state we call home is willing to sacrifice others for political gain? I refuse to accept that, and I will not stand idly by while Iowa lawmakers roll back civil rights.How do you sleep at night, knowing the harm this legislation will cause? The individuals and families you claim to represent deserve better. I urge you to oppose these bills and protect the fundamental rights of all Iowans.Make no mistakeI will be speaking with anyone and everyone I know to ensure that those who support this blatant attack on civil rights are not reelected. Iowans are watching, and we will remember where you stood when it mattered most.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I do not support this bill.
02-27-2025
Laurence Krier [Parent]
CON
Page 2, line 32:By removing gender identity is indicating that discrimination because of gender identity is now accepted.Page 4 line 31:By removing gender identity is indicating that discrimination because of gender identity I now accepted.There are many places in the bill where removal of the term gender identity opens the interpretation to discrimination because of gender identity.Page 3, lines 25 30: removed Prevents a transgender person from changing their records to match their transgender life making it an invasion of their privacy if they do not want their birth sex to be known.A trans person should be granted special accommodations, if it is believed that their presence will be offensive to someone.There are many trans women and men who use public restrooms and no one is offended, because they appear to be the the proper sex and they they o not display their genitals, like most considerate people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
There but for the grace of God go I.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Do not take away any rights from any group of people. If anything, we should be enshrining into law more rights for the people
02-27-2025
Olivia [Self ]
CON
My name is Olivia and I am a mom to 2 girls who love everyone no matter how different. I have lived in this beautiful state of Iowa since I was born. To me one of the aspects that makes it most beautiful is the diversity we have. Certain individuals in this committee truly believe that the LGBTQIA+ community is indoctrinating children and pushing an agenda from not only Gender Theory classes but something as simple as a couple in a movie, or Timmy having 2 fathers on his family portrait. Those same individuals want to create Bible education classes in schools to push a Christian, political agenda on children. Our founding fathers came here to find religious freedom. Freedom from a king where the people can be heard. Right now youre not listening to the people of Iowa. Separation of church and state. I grew up in the church and one thing I know for sure is that Jesus preached love thy neighbor. We are all brother and sisters in the eyes of the Lord. Yet here you are dehumanizing and condemning your fellow brothers and sisters for being nothing less than their true self. We are supposed to be the Land Of the Free, NOT the Land of the condemned, repressed and dehumanizing. How can you sit there and say youre for the people when you want to mass arrest people who exercise their First Amendment Rights? I urge you before you vote to truly stop and listen to the people. If this committee truly cared about what happens in school, Kim Reynolds would not have increased private school vouchers by 44% and public schools by 2%. You would be more concerned with keeping our children safe from school shootings and making sure the kids are taken care of. Individuals in this committee compare their actions to being Godly, but all I see is this committee and this state spreading nothing but hate for people who arent the same as them. This is 2025, we couldve been closer to loving thy neighbors now than ever. Dont condemn this group of human beings for doing something you fail to do and speak up and fight for what is right.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I feel every single human being deserves respect, health care, housing, dignity, and support from the community. We are losing our humanity. This bill is a disgrace and anyone who supports it should feel ashamed. Thank you.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This bill will hurt vulnerable, innocent people. It ignores the realities of gender dysphoria and intersex people.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Iowa HHS]
CON
Trans Iowans exist and trans individuals have always existed. Stop trying to legislate hate and take away peoples rights.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Formerly registered Republican now Independent. The reason I left the Republican party is they went from the party of small government to wanting to put their hands in aspects of personal lives where they just don't belong.Stop legislating other people's live. This is not government responsibility. It is a publicity stunt for the Republican base, an abuse of power, and legislating personal freedoms.One of the purposes of government is to ensure rights to all including minorities instead you are legislating rights away from individuals.
02-27-2025
Erica Zito []
CON
02-27-2025
Jane Behrens []
CON
A cruel bill that does nothing to improve life for Iowans, who live in the 2ndhighest cancer prone state in the union, with a governor and legislature who throw public money at private schools, allows its most vulnerable citizens to go hungry, shows no concern for ag chemicals pouring into our water making it unsafe to drink. Who would want to to move to Iowa? "Whatsoever you do to the least of these, you do to me." That's straight from Jesus, if you need to be reminded. Quit obsessing over genitalia and get on with the real work of making Iowa a place people want to live in.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [University of Northern Iowa]
CON
02-27-2025
Heather Loops []
CON
This bill is offensive, ignorant and wrong! We should not be legislating hate. If we start legislating hate where does it stop? I will leave you with a quote from a pastor about when hate destroys First they came for the CommunistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a CommunistThen they came for the SocialistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a SocialistThen they came for the trade unionistsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a trade unionistThen they came for the JewsAnd I did not speak outBecause I was not a JewThen they came for meAnd there was no one leftTo speak out for mePastor Martin Niemller
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am against this vote, taking away the civil rights of transgender people is not only unethical but also immoral and another step towards fascism. If we start taking away civil rights than we start stepping towards the acceptance of racism, bigotry and misogyny. What's next? Women can't leave their homes unless a man accompanies them? People of color need a permit to leave their home or work? Civil rights is a third rail topic for a reason. Iowa is supposed to be about caring for neighbors and providing a helping hand. The place you can go and feel like family or friends. I don't want our state to be known as the State that Hates. #IowaCares or #IowaHates?
02-27-2025
Mary Zeran []
CON
Simply put. Trans rights are human rights. I do not support this bill. It is inhumane and cruel. Trans people are not hurting anyone by being who they are. I never thought I would see civil rights be questioned in the state of Iowa.
02-27-2025
Marlee [Myers]
CON
Im writing to strongly oppose HF 583 which seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class under the Iowa civil rights act as a nonbinary iowan i am disgusted with that lawmakers are spending their time attacking marginalized communities instead of addressing the real issues facing our state like food and security, healthcare access, and economic instability. This is not about protection Its about discrimination. By removing gender identity from civil rights protections, you are sending a clear message that trans intersex and nonbinary Iowans do not deserve equal rights and housing, employment and public services. No one should have to live in fear of being denied a job, evicted or refused services simply because of who they are.If lawmakers actually cared about protecting women and children as they so often claim then why are they pushing bills like this while also getting abortion, rights slashing social services and ignoring the rise in domestic violence cases is clear this isnt about protection its about control. Iowans deserve representation not repression. I urge you to reject HF 583 instead focus on the legislation that benefits all Iowans not just the ones who fit into a narrow definition of acceptable.
02-27-2025
Julia Harbeck []
PRO
Please restore common sense in Iowa again by voting that there are only 2 sexes. It is hard to believe we have to make this a law. There are only 2 sexes.
02-27-2025
Griffin Snow []
CON
Please vote against this bill to ensure that everyone in Iowa is treated fairly and equally! The existence of trans and nonbinary people threatens nobody. Set a precedent for your family, friends, and other state governments by leading with a legacy of love and acceptance. This bill is one of many that will snowball into erasing people that have done nothing wrong, nothing harmful, and nothing to make our lives any worse. Please vote against this bill and prove that we are truly a state that will fight against injustice and transphobia.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Limiting civil rights to target a group of people will not improve Iowa and would be a step backwards towards equality for ALL
02-27-2025
Anna [N/A]
CON
I am urging you to vote against HF 583. This is not about protecting women's rights, bathrooms, sports, and locker rooms. As a straight woman, I have never felt threatened or at risk from the presence of a trans woman. However, I have felt unsafe and fear of straight men. Stop demonizing Iowans trying to live their lives, get jobs, and housing.
02-27-2025
Joy Wibe []
CON
This bill is an abomination. To be LGBTQ is not criminal nor is it a deviant of normal.
02-27-2025
Nikki [N/A]
CON
This bill is harmful to Iowans. Trans people exist. They are not a danger. Please focus on what is truly dangerous to Iowa and the country the stripping of civil rights, the violations of privacy by the leaders of the nation (both elected and unelected), and the suppression of information. Stripping away rights and demonizing marginalized groups is what the Nazis did.
02-27-2025
AJ Lindaman [Self]
CON
02-27-2025
Pete Mundy []
PRO
"Transgender" is a fiction, unsupported by true science. Any doubts erased by Google search: "What cells of the human body contain sex hormones?" The scientific answer renders any fancy that artificial hormone flooding, or genital mutilation surgery, at considerable cost, can undo and override the Facts of Life.It is a disservice to endorse delusions of any citizen. You can't buy a Superman suit from a costume company and become the Man of Steel, able to fly. Anyone encouraging you to try is not interested in the truth, nor in promoting your best interests.Real kindness is based in the whole truth.
02-27-2025
Margaret Holman []
CON
This bill strips Iowans of their civil rights. It makes the state hostile and cruel to a minority group of individuals. It is taking the state backward. I am horrified and embarrassed by these politicians who are using an issue to purposely divide people. That is all this is about. It is divisive. It is based on nothing but a desire to distract the people of Iowa away from the bigger issues. How about we look at saving our planet instead of codifying witch hunts of minority groups? What a wonderful world it COULD be.
02-27-2025
Dan Alpers [Private citizen]
CON
Trans people deserve civil rights. Stripping them of rights only allows hate to drive people to take trans people's lives.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Thomas Duff []
CON
This bill creates a caste system in Iowa and relegates transgender persons (or those perceived to be transgender) to second class citizenship. Under this bill, transgender Iowans can be legally fired, not hired, denied credit (buying a home/car), denied the right to education and public accommodations (shopping/going to a coffee shop) solely because of their sexual identity. How do we expect these folks to become productive, taxpaying members of our society? If there are concerns about transgender persons participating in girls sports or using female locker rooms or restrooms than a bill can be drafted to address those specific concerns. HSB 583 uses a sledgehammer where a scalpel would be more appropriate.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
This is gross and the people who support this should be ashamed. Let people live in peace.
02-27-2025
Ricardo Ramon []
PRO
02-27-2025
Renae Bishop []
CON
I am a nonbinary individual. I do not expect special treatment nor do I even feel the need to inform most people of my preferred pronouns. I know who I am, it truly doesnt matter what others think and feel about it. But it does matter how I am treated. Just like my trans brothers and sisters I know the danger I put myself in when I publicly identify. But I knew at least that no one could choose to not hire me, rent an apartment to me, or refuse to serve me if I am feeling brave about existing as myself. This regressive step from my government changes that. I am a native Iowan, child of a dairy farmer, and artist who has been inspired by so many wonderful things that Iowa is. But over the years I have gotten the distinct impression that I am not wanted here no matter how much I want to stay. Please, this is my home. Dont drive me out.
02-27-2025
Ali [Iowan]
CON
HF 583 violates Civil rights & must be Stopped & Blocked.No one should be discriminated based on their gender identity.Why are we wasting time on these useless Bills, when we have so many other important issues to take care of in IOWA.
02-27-2025
Robyn McSheehy []
CON
02-27-2025
Kailey Uhde [BxtchesGetStuffDone]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [myself]
CON
This bill will harm more than it will help. This bill is intended to discriminate against such a small population and there is so much misinformation that is being pushed this forward. This is not about protecting women and girls. This deteriorates the bedrock concept of the separation of church and state and will end up causing large numbers of people to leave this state if they are able. Stop hurting our state. Civil rights should remain for all.
02-27-2025
Zoey Wieck [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Misti Johnson []
CON
Our Liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. I see you primarily let those in the room to speak who were in support of your discriminatory bill. For shame. Come outside and see us. Your intent to legislate hate is immoral. Jesus is quite clear love your neighbor. Vote no on removing trans equal rights. They arent asking for more rights than you, just equal rights. Remove their rights and you will open the door that protects hate crimes, and staggering numbers of suicide. That blood will be on your hands. So make the correct choice. Vote no on HF583 and SF418!
02-27-2025
Hailey James [Mother Concerned for All]
CON
This bill makes me so sad. As a mother of young children, I want my kids to be as happy as possible, whatever that means. I also want that for every child, and believe it or not, we were all children once. I want people of my community to feel safe, seen, and heard. I want them to live their truth, and this bill goes against all of that. I was once proud of the state I was born and raised in. Now it seems we are falling into a hole of hatred, just like the rest of the country, and it breaks my heart. Please oppose this bill. Do what is right.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Concerned Citizen]
CON
Dear Members of the Iowa Legislature,I strongly oppose HF 583, which seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class under Iowas civil rights laws. This bill would strip essential protections from transgender and intersex individuals, exposing them to increased discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations.Every Iowan deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of gender identity. Removing these protections sends a harmful message that some members of our community are less deserving of basic rights. Furthermore, the bills rigid definition of biological sex ignores medical and scientific realities, creating legal confusion and potential harm.I urge you to reject HF 583 and uphold Iowas commitment to fairness, equality, and human rights for all.Sincerely,Kira Bliss
02-27-2025
Deanne Plew-Colwell []
CON
This bill is absolutely disgusting, immoral and just WRONG!! If we start taking away these peoples rights where does it stop? The Constitution should protect ALL people, no matter their religion, color, sexual preference or orientationALL people!!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am strongly opposed to this bill. No one should be discriminated against on the basis of their gender identity, whether they are trans or not, which is the point of including gender identity in the civil rights act. It protects all Iowans of all gender identities. Please do not remove this legal protection against discrimination. I am also opposed to the proposed changes to the process for changing the sex on one's birth certificate. The current law already requires that the person in question has undergone irreversible medical interventions to change their sex. At that point, why does it matter what they were called when they were born? It seems designed only to forcibly out trans people, which would subject them to discrimination and possible violence. Finally, "gender theory" should not be banned from education at any level. This phrasing is a way to get around the injunction on the previous law banning the teaching of gender identity at the K6 level, so all the same arguments against that law still apply here. If teachers are barred from discussing these topics, they cannot enforce antibullying policies, and they are put in impossible situations when students bring up these topics. Please vote NO on this entire package and any permutations of it.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
PRO
I understand how people feel from both sides of this decision but, we all only have ONE life to live. How each and every individual finds their happiness is their decision. We all deserve that. Life is difficult at times. Its even more difficult when theres something inside of a person that is struggling so hard to get out. Ive seen it personally with someone struggling to the point that they almost took their life because they were afraid to speak up. My parents raised me to always put the shoe on the other foot, not be judgmental, and to always find the good in everyone and everything. From an outsider looking in, just leave things alone and let each and every one of Gods creations live their own lives as they choose. If every one of us only knew that our lives are a gift and we are so fortunate to have been given this gift then maybe we would realize that kindness matters and that we should let well enough alone. Im an aging citizen. Many many things have changed in my lifetime. Things that I havent been happy about but, theyre going to keep changing no matter how we feel about it. We adjust. Please everyone whos having a difficult time with this decision, be kind. Find it in your hearts to let all of us live our own lives as you will live your own as well.
02-27-2025
kate thalacker []
CON
02-27-2025
Larry OBrien []
CON
Please Vote no.
02-27-2025
Christopher Cuhel [N/A]
CON
As queer nonbinary former Iowan, I stand in opposition to this bill. Iowa would be the first state to take away civil rights by doing this. If this passes, it certainly will lead to other changes of the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Legislation like this is exactly why I fled Iowa last year. I no longer felt safe to call Iowa home so I left. Passing this bill will only harm Iowans.
02-27-2025
Julie W []
CON
This bill is pure evil in trying to relinquish the rights of trans and gender nonconforming Iowans. In being so concerned with what's "natural," it seems those supporting this bill would know that other creatures in the animal kingdom transition for various reasons, and that transition does not occur solely between two poles. Without even beginning to discuss the vast and varied world of gender identity and expression, biological sex itself is not binary either; intersex people exist and are about as common as people with red hair, between 1 and 2% of the world's population. As you scapegoat people in minority groups, you incite fear for the safety of people within those groups. That fear is not unfounded. First, YOU came for immigrants. Then, YOU came for trans people. That poem is about YOU. You are on the wrong side of history if you are in favor of this bill.Let trans and nonconforming Iowans LIVE THEIR LIVES!
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
Why would you take away civil rights protections for people. What about intersex people, must the parents choose what to identify them as at birth again, what if they choose wrong? Stay out of peoples bodies. Body autonomoy should be protected. Whyen is it ever ok to discriminate on any minoroty class. This is a slippery slope...and an embarrasment for Iowans
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Na]
CON
Stop trying to take everyones rights away! This is ridiculous!
02-27-2025
Annie Spizale [Myself]
CON
This bill is discriminatory. Its not the governments business to decide a persons gender identity or interfere in the personal lives of its citizens. This bill will leave members of the LGBTQ community vulnerable to discrimination and harassment. It is unacceptable that any citizens gender should be scrutinized or controlled by the government.
02-27-2025
Nancy Baumgartner []
CON
Please vote down this bill. I thought repbulicans were trying to attract people to live in Iowa. Who will come and/or stay in a state that is so hateful and ignorant? Do we really want to be the first state to ever remove a protected class from its civil rights laws? Why are republicans so afraid of of people different than they are?
02-27-2025
Anonymous [none]
CON
The protected status is not harming anyone. This status needs protection
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
This is bill born from a lack of scientific knowledge, human biology, and psychology. It is from fear. It is immoral, unethical and illegal. It serves no purpose. What is to stop you from alienating another subgroup of humans because we dont or wont understand them? I am a multigenerational Iowan my family on both sides came and settled here in the early 1800s. These kinds of ridiculous bills and waste of time will ensure that my grandchildren live in a different state. It will drive people away and out of our state. And on a religious ground my faith (UMC) views this as the very opposite of what Jesus would do. Please do not support or pass this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [NA]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [Resident of iowa]
PRO
This shouldnt even be a debate man need to stay out of womans bathrooms and womens sports. It doesnt matter if you put a wig on or paint your nails. If you stink at sports then quit sports. If a grown man admits that he wants to change in the womans bathroom hes either a pedo, a perv or mentally ill or all three. There are only 2 genders male and female. Our society must realize that theirs a difference between facts and fantasy and thinking that we can magically change our sex is fantasy.
02-27-2025
Armando Torres []
CON
Hello, I am Armando Torres and I oppose HF 583. Please uphold the state motto, "our liberties we prize and rights we will maintain". Trans individuals share the goals we all have in this country, to be free, succeed in their career, and pursue happiness. Keep Iowa Beautiful with ALL of us protected under the Law. Thank you.
02-27-2025
Jaime Martin []
CON
02-27-2025
Cindy Taykowski [Self]
CON
Youre leaving trans Iowans out of our state motto.This bill goes against the State motto of Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain. Civil rights protect all Iowans, and this bill is harmful and unnecessary.
02-27-2025
Tiffany DeBow []
CON
Regardless of anyone's feeling on people who are transgender, no one should lose access to employment, housing, credit, etc. because of what their life looks like. Because a person does not conform to made up societal rules for what is male and female they should not be forced to be jobless and/or homeless. Legislating discrimination is disgusting.
02-27-2025
Joshua LaFavre []
CON
The opposition to this bill states that only truth should matter, not feeling. At the same time, those same people use their feelings of fear to justify supporting this bill, while the facts show that trans people are at a much higher risk of suffering violence by a nontrans person. If you want to use facts and not feelings, you cannot use personal fear based on bigotry to justify this bill. The opposition of this bill also states repeatedly that any rights based on changeable ideas are a danger to our state. I would like to point out that Political and Religious beliefs also fall under that category. Are we as Americans ready to cast off protections for those rights as well? It would only be fitting, given the 'evidence' brought to support this bill.
02-27-2025
Julie messerli []
CON
Equal rights do not take away rights of others. Trans people deserve equal rights and equal opportunities for education, employment, housing. I do not fear transgender people as much as I fear the legislatures writing and supporting this bill.
02-27-2025
Danica Baker []
CON
Stripping anyone of their civil rights is a deplorable act. Anyone voting in support of this should be ashamed.If this passes, our state motto is hypocritical.
02-27-2025
Lisa Stone
CON
Feb. 27, 2025Dear Iowa legislators,Please do not vote yes for dismissing anyone's civil rights protections. This is simply wrong on all levels. It opens the door to allowing others to be discriminated against, other rights to be revoked, and to fostering a climate of fear and intimidation in this state. History has proven time and again that these sorts of restrictions never end well.Iowa is already at the top of several lists it should not be on and near the bottom of several we should be at the top of. We used to be proud to be first in the nation in education. Please don't allow Iowa to be first in the nation to strip its citizens of their basic civil rights.Sincerely,Lisa Stone
02-27-2025
Angela [Cocayne ]
CON
02-27-2025
Angela Pittman [Iowan ]
CON
All Iowans deserve to have their basic rights protected. Removing gender identity will certainly lead to discrimination. There is no reason for this action. It is pure evil and benefits no one. Please vote No!
02-27-2025
Alex Nedved []
CON
The state legislature's attack on trans Iowans is reprehensible and makes me sick. Furthermore it is a distraction from very real issues that Iowans face. How does this address the housing issues in our state? How does this address the cost of living crisis? How does this address school funding, surging cancer rates, or the brain drain of young people fleeing the state? How does this do anything but make it look like the party in power is accomplishing something when in actuality they are overall unwilling or unable to implement policies that will actually help Iowans. But instead the state Republican party launches yet another culture war crusade to demonize and otherize fellow Iowans who are just trying to get by in life like the rest of us. How about they leave LGBT+ folks alone and actually govern.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
02-27-2025
Samuel Quinn Morris [Private Citizen]
CON
For the protection and safety of all Iowans, it is vital to strike this discriminatory and hateful bill down. America is a place of selfdetermination and selfdefinition, and it is grossly insulting and invasive that the government is attempting to force us to live how they want us to live. If you value your freedom, if you value the American promise, it is your responsibility to vote no on this bill. Voting yes places many, many people in serious danger, even physical danger. As any educated medical doctor can tell you, "sex" is far from a binary, and attempting to force all of humanity into such a legal enclosure can only create more problems for everyone. Do the right thing. Do the scientific thing. Do the moral thing. Do the American thing. Do not let the government tell us who we are.
02-27-2025
Laura Moser []
CON
02-27-2025
Alicia Stephens [NA]
CON
The words were put in our states civil rights because the issue isnt men playing womens sports or men using womens restrooms. The issue is that too often in our state people are denied basic rights, housing, jobs, etc because of misinformation, hate and fear of the unknown. Those were are necessary to protect the few and vulnerable in our communities. Removing gender related terms takes away those rights and protections from what is the smallest population in our state making it easier for them to be targets again and they have no legal recourse. When we start removing rights and protections from a group of our fellow Iowans who are doing nothing to anyone you open the flood gates for others to loose their rights and protections. As a reminder, when this country was founded women were not people, and too many people are talking out loud about taking away womens rights to vote. Thousands have fought so that ALL Americans and Iowans have liberty and justice for all per our countrys constitution. To do this is the capitol speaking loud and clear that only the right people can have rights and protections. If you care about the constitution, liberty and justice for all you would not support this bill.
02-27-2025
Luke Charnoski [Central DeWitt Middle School]
CON
I am a young transgender Iowan. I have lived in Iowa my entire life and wish to continue my education and future in this state. This bill will not only affect my future but my thoughts of living here in the state in which I have lived since birth. Here's some personal information on myself which I hope will help lead to your opinion on this bill. My name is Luke Charnoski, I am an 8th grader at Central DeWitt Middle School. I have several beloved cats and three siblings I love dearly. I am an ELA Honors student with a passion for pursuing law. I have been out for two years and have found acceptance within my school and family. I have three close friends, and I care about all of them very dearly. I face daily struggles with my identity. I struggle with severe bullying. Last year, when I was in 7th grade, it was so severe that I fell into heavy drinking and substance abuse. I have severe anxiety and struggle to go to school every day because of the bullying I face. When I was in 6th grade I was hit in the face and called a "faggot" for just walking in the hall in my friend. I fear every day that I may be assaulted or harmed for my identity, and this bill only adds to this fear I hold.This bill will affect my future, my right to buy a home, my right to employment, and my right to education further than high school. Please vote no on HSB 242.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
CON
02-27-2025
Nate Cannon []
CON
I'm a transgender man who was born and raised in Iowa. I wrestled with dysphoria from my earliest memories, but didn't have a term to describe what I was experiencing as a youth. I learned what being transgender meant when I was 12, by way of a local news article describing the rape and murder of Brandon Teena, a transgender man from Nebraska. He was painted as an imposter a girl pretending to be a boy. Media and law enforcement alike seemed to suggest that he 'brought it on.' The story stuck with me to the degree that I told myself then, at that tender age, that if being trans meant being treated that way, then I would fight every bit of my selfloathing and the depths of my depression to try and be the girl I was born as. I tried for many years to live as a woman, but I couldn't do it. A suicide attempt nearly took my life. Transition is what saved it. I would guess that many of the same people who are concerned about the safety of their daughters should a lone transgender girl decide to be courageous enough to play on a team would also be proud to see their daughter out there on a boys' team holding her own. I was one of just a few girls who played hockey in the state of Iowa in the 80s and 90s, and in high school I spoke to the City Council in Sioux City to advocate for a girls' hockey team. I was a fierce advocate for women's rights then, and I still am. Transgender rights and women's rights are not mutually exclusive.I felt the discomfort of being the only girl in the boys' locker room when I was a teen. I felt the target on my back when playing the game. I heard the threats hurled by parents saying that I didn't belong out there. I became the controversy. I took the hits, literally and metaphorically, so that I could play a game I love on a team where I felt I could belong, in the name of forwarding women's rights.Passing this bill means you will turn me back into a woman despite all of the legal and medical evidence to the contrary. Thus, in the name of women's rights, you will have an obligation to protect me even when I use the women's room, since that's where you want me. Imagine how the lobbyist who was so uncomfortable when a trans woman entered the bathroom that she had to discuss it with the media will feel when I'm the one asking for toilet paper under the partition of the stall. Or how a father with strong views on what a 'real' man is will feel when this grown man with a goatee walks into the women's bathroom while he's waiting for his teenage daughter to exit. Or how that 6 year old girl and her mom will feel when I'm the one washing my hands a few sinks over.This is the reality you are creating. Rescinding civil rights that were bestowed upon a group of individuals is more than just an abhorrent gesture, it's a recipe for violence. If you pass this bill, it will amplify already rampant violence directed at the transgender community. If you pass this bill, a whole new generation of kids like me are going to struggle in their lives because they've been explicitly told that their lives and identities are not worth protecting or even honoring.If you pass this bill, you'll be equipping those fueled by hatred, illintent, politics, or religion with a metaphorical weapon and giving them license to shoot all while showing them the target on my back.If you pass this bill, you will be demonstrating that you value monetary gain and politically motivated witchhunts more than you value the views of your constituents, who are clearly opposed to this.If you pass this bill, you will be acting in direct contradiction to your efforts to reduce waste and spending because this bill can and will result in lengthy and costly litigation. Iowans don't want you wasting time or money on this issue as is. If you pass this bill, you are sending the same message to the transgender community that got delivered when Brandon Teena was murdered: that somehow, through our very existence, we 'brought this on' and deserve whatever hatred and violence might come our way. I've always been proud to be from Iowa. Please do the right thing, listen to your constituents, and oppose this bill.
02-27-2025
Mary Kennard McAdams [Ankeny Area Democrats]
CON
Shame on you. Hateful legislation. What happened to the "Party of small gov't"? Get out of our lives.
02-27-2025
Allison Ritchie [N/A]
CON
I urge you to vote against this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [None]
PRO
I fully support this bill as written. Gender theory and gender identity should not be taught to our children or be used as a cudgel against individuals in business or private life.
02-27-2025
Haley Smith []
CON
Our liberties we prize and OUR RIGHTS WE WILL MAINTAIN! If Iowa becomes the first state in the country to REMOVE civil rights protections then our state motto is a lie! How anybody could support this atrocious bill is beyond me. This state used to lead the country in civil rights and education. Now were becoming a state that I dont think I or my family can even stay in. Please VOTE NO on the civil rights removal act!
02-27-2025
Sophia Laughman []
CON
This is hateful and unnecessary. I do not support this.
02-27-2025
Daniel Gibson []
CON
It is honestly a terrifying thing to see what the individuals elected to have our best interests as their top priority constantly try to strip the queer community of their rights. I truly hope that this country has not come to such a point where the main goal is no longer equality, but subservience from those that the powerful see as different. Please understand, this is hurting people.
02-27-2025
Sashi P Solomon []
CON
I am a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in practice for nearly 30 years. This issue is not as black and white and some may think. Genetics and gender identity are complicated. Discrimination will only lead to harm. Please do not pass this bill.
02-27-2025
Christina Buell [Self]
CON
Against this bill. Do not waste tax payers time to further victimize this marginalized group. Republicans are bizarrely concerned with gentials and private lives of strangers. Our elected officials should be focusing on the real issues facing our state.
02-27-2025
Anonymous []
CON
I am so disappointed and embarrassed to call myself an Iowan. Whenever I travel around the US or abroad, I avoid the conversation of where I am from at all costs. It is no wonder that Iowans are viewed as uneducated and racist...just look at who our Governor bows down to. She is a disgrace to women. Do something right for a change and don't pass this bill. If you do, you will continue to show the US that Iowa deserves the stigma.
02-27-2025
Iry [N/A]
CON
This is wrong. dont pass this bill.
02-27-2025
Anonymous [n/a]
CON
This bill is nothing but hate. Removing rights from a protected class is nothing but hate. Republicans should be ashamed of themselves.
02-27-2025
Rebekah Jacobs []
CON
Please vote OPPOSED to HF 583. This bill will not only harm those who are already disenfranchised, but it will also negatively impact any woman who doesn't conform to traditional gender stereotypes. Please protect us all, by voting no.
02-27-2025
JC Ho [None]
CON
I dont even live in Iowa but dont be a bigot and look at the bigger picture please. Trans rights are human rights. Quit wasting time. Youve let the rich scapegoat you into blaming a certain group when the real problem is actually just the rich. Stop the greed and stop the hate.
02-27-2025
JC Ho [None]
CON
I dont even live in Iowa but dont be a bigot and look at the bigger picture please. Trans rights are human rights. Quit wasting time. Youve let the rich scapegoat you into blaming a certain group when the real problem is actually just the rich. Stop the greed and stop the hate. (I accidentally put pro on the last one)
02-27-2025
Megan Roos []
CON
02-27-2025
Anonymous [N/A]
CON
Removing protections for the most vulnerable in our community is repulsive. Equality isn't a zero sum game. You don't get fewer rights just because we protect the rights of others. It's a slippery slope before we take away protections for women, people of color, people with disabilities, etc.