—Signed House Bill 2007 into law, which restricts access to health care for transgender youth under the age of 18 in the state. Every major medical association and leading world health authority supports health care for transgender people and youth; statements here.
—Signed House Bill 3042, a “Religious Freedom Restoration Act,” that allows religious beliefs to be used as an excuse to violate the rights of others. “Religious Freedom Restoration Acts” (RFRA) legalize discrimination against LGBTQ people. For more on RFRA laws, click here.
—Signed into law House Bill 3293, an anti-transgender bill that bans transgender girls and women from participating in sports at the elementary, secondary, or post-secondary level consistent with their gender identity. For more information on LGBTQ people and sports, click here.
—In a legendary interview with MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle, could not identify a single instance in which a transgender girl tried to gain advantage over non-trans participants in school sports. Justice signed a bill into law banning transgender student participation. “Well, Stephanie, I don’t have that experience exactly to myself right now,” Justice answered. Ruhle followed up: “West Virginia ranks 45th in education, 47th in healthcare, 48th in the economy, and 50th in infrastructure. If you cannot name one single example for me, of a child doing this, why would you make this a priority?” Justice responded that he “didn’t make it a priority. It wasn’t my bill.” Ruhle reminded again that Justice signed the bill into law.