Conference Stands in Opposition to Kansas Senate Bill 55

I am sure many of you have been following the actions of the Kansas legislature on the bill regarding the participation of transgender girls in sports. The bill, SB 55, is on Governor Kelly’s desk awaiting her signature. Many expect that the Governor will veto the bill. I hope so, but even if she does, there will be an attempt to override her veto.

You can find a copy of the essence of what was sent to the Governor here - the actual bill has not yet been posted on the website of the legislature. I am writing to encourage you and those who may be interested and willing to speak out to do so now. The best strategy we have is to thank those who voted against the bill AND to encourage them to stand firm in their opposition should the governor veto the proposed legislation and there be an attempt to override her veto. If those who voted against it continue to oppose it, there will not be enough votes to override Governor Kelly’s veto.

There were a small number legislators who were absent for this vote. They CAN vote to override the Governor’s veto. I am listing them as well so you will know who they were and have the opportunity to be in touch with them and encourage them to either remain silent (AGAIN) or to support the governor in her veto of the bill.

This legislation has been framed as protecting girls sports; but if you have followed it, then you know that is part of a carefully orchestrated strategy across the country aimed at the rights of transgender community to be fully who they are. In my mind this strategy is among the most despicable yet as it is using a particularly vulnerable population, the wellbeing of children at a very vulnerable age - adolescence. Look beyond the title; protecting girls sports seems commendable, but excluding vulnerable transgender girls isn’t as kind. The possible loss of hosting NCAA games in the state because of this legislation might not be that great either.

This is an opportunity to say thank you to those who voted against this legislation AND to encourage them to continue to stand firm should the Governor veto it and an effort ensues to override her veto. I am not providing you a form letter to do so, you and others can use your own voice (which I hear is most effective!)

What I will say is that we often forget to say thank you to those who speak out in difficult situations. This is a chance to do that. It is an opportunity to offer a word of encouragement for those who may need a boost to their courage as there will be attempts to get them to change their votes. If you have a personal story to share about why this matters to you, share it. And if you write and tell others from your congregation who write, PLEASE note you are a Christian or a person of faith. It always matters, but in this particular context, it REALLY matters.

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Taking Action

As an Open and Affirming Conference, we invite you to exercise your voice as you can to guard and protect the most vulnerable among us. If you feel moved to take action here are a few resources. First, please share your thoughts on this bill with the governor:

Equality Kansas: Ask Governor Kelly to Veto SB55

Should Governor Kelly veto SB55, it may still be overridden in the legislature. Below, find lists of senators and representatives who need to hear from constituents that they should continue to say no to SB55. We want to thank and encourage these legislators as much as possible.

Representatives Absent and Not Voting on SB55

Representatives Voting No on SB55

Senators Present but Passing on SB55

Senators Voting No on SB55

We continue to watch how this bill is affecting Oklahoma and will post additional resources as this bill moves through their legislature.