Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order last week in order to protect LGBTQ people from his state and others who are seeking gender-affirming healthcare. In response to the growing number of bills targeting trans rights in other states, Walz says his executive order looks to create a safe space for trans people, their families and care providers traveling from out of state for medical interventions, Steve Karnowski reports for the Seattle Times. This executive order follows legislation awaiting a floor vote in the House that would allow Minnesota to become a “trans refuge state.”
“We want every Minnesotan to grow up feeling safe, valued, protected, celebrated, and free to exist as their authentic versions of themselves,” Walz said. “Protecting and supporting access to gender-affirming health care is essential to being a welcoming and supportive state.”