Senator Padilla’s Statement on the Supreme Court’s Decision to Uphold State Laws Denying Gender Affirming Care to Minors

SACRAMENTO –Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) released the following statement today following the ruling in United States v. Skrmetti upholding state laws that deny gender-affirming care for minors:

“The Supreme Court should be protecting the rights of all vulnerable communities, not stripping them away. This decision only reaffirms California's commitment to protecting our children because make no mistake, when we stop people from living their truth and being their most authentic selves, we do irreparable harm.  Transgender rights are human rights and denying this essential expression of self is needlessly cruel and a reminder that our fight for justice must continue.”

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Steve Padilla represents the 18th Senate District, which includes the communities of Chula Vista, the Coachella Valley, Imperial Beach, the Imperial Valley, National City, and San Diego. Prior to his election to the Senate in 2022, Senator Padilla was the first person of color ever elected to city office in Chula Vista, the first Latino Mayor, and the first openly LGBT person to serve or be elected to city office. Website of Senator Steve Padilla: https://sd18.senate.ca.gov/