California law keeps parents unaware of kids’ gender changes

In California, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1955, known as the SAFETY Act, which prohibits school districts from notifying parents if their child changes their gender identity. This legislation has sparked significant controversy, leading to lawsuits and criticism from various groups who argue it undermines parental rights. Critics, including the California Policy Center, assert that the law violates the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, which grants parents access to their children's educational information. The law has faced backlash from conservative legal groups, such as the Liberty Justice Center, which has filed a lawsuit on behalf of parents and the Chino Valley Unified School District, claiming the law infringes on parental rights. This situation reflects a broader national debate over parental rights and the role of schools in discussing sensitive topics like gender identity. California is the first state to enact such a law, although similar policies have been attempted in other states, often facing legal challenges. For instance, a federal court in Wisconsin ruled against a school district that affirmed a student's gender transition without parental consent, highlighting the tension between educational policies and parental authority. In contrast, Texas has enacted laws that protect children from certain medical treatments related to gender transition, leading to its own legal battles over parental rights. The differing approaches in California and Texas illustrate the ongoing national discourse surrounding parental involvement in children's education and health decisions.