Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed a controversial bill into law, reaffirming traditional gender definitions and sparking a heated debate on transgender rights.
At a Glance
- Alabama’s “What is a Woman Act” defines gender based on biological sex at birth
- The bill passed with a 77-12 vote in the Alabama House
- Critics argue the law marginalizes transgender and intersex individuals
- The legislation aims to provide clarity in Alabama’s laws and courts
- Gov. Ivey expressed strong support for the bill’s traditional gender stance
Alabama’s New Gender Definition Law
In a move that has ignited controversy across the nation, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed into law a bill that defines gender terms based on biological sex. The legislation, known as the “What is a Woman Act,” passed the Alabama House with a significant majority of 77-12, reflecting the state’s conservative stance on gender issues.
The new law provides explicit definitions for terms such as male, female, man, woman, boy, girl, mother, and father. It links these identities to reproductive functions, asserting that there are only two sexes. Governor Ivey has been vocal in her support for the bill, stating, “If the Good Lord made you a boy, you’re a boy. And if He made you a girl, you’re a girl. In Alabama, we believe there are only two genders: Male and female. There is nothing complicated or controversial about it,” Gov. Kay Ivey said.
Legislative Intent and Support
Proponents of the bill argue that it provides necessary clarity and uniformity in Alabama’s legal system. Rep. Susan DuBose, one of the bill’s sponsors, emphasized its importance, saying, “We do need to pass this law for clarity, certainty, and uniformity in the courts and in the laws of Alabama,” Rep. Susan DuBose said.
Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter has also voiced strong support for the legislation, emphasizing traditional gender roles and values. “We believe boys should play against boys and girls should play against girls. We believe that men have no business using the girls’ restroom,” Ledbetter said.
Criticism and Concerns
The bill has faced significant opposition from civil rights organizations and LGBTQ+ advocates. Critics argue that the legislation targets and marginalizes transgender and intersex individuals, potentially complicating their lives and restricting their freedom to live authentically.
“It is impossible to erase who someone is and it is anything but common sense to pretend that they do not exist,” A’Niya Robinson said.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Alabama has been particularly vocal in its opposition to the bill, viewing it as part of a broader trend of legislation threatening civil liberties in the state. The organization has tracked over 160 bills related to civil liberties during the 2024 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature, highlighting concerns about voter access, LGBTQ+ rights, public safety, and free speech.
As Alabama moves forward with this new law, questions arise about its practical implementation and potential legal challenges. The bill allows for single-sex spaces like dormitories and rape crisis centers but does not mandate their creation, leaving room for interpretation in various settings.
The passage of this bill in Alabama reflects a wider national debate on gender identity and recognition. It follows similar legislative efforts in other conservative states and echoes discussions that have reached the highest levels of government, including Supreme Court confirmation hearings.
