Truthout
LGBTQ Rights
![A performer in drag reads a book while singing to seated diners within a restaurant](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0309-drag-brunch-400x300.jpg)
Tennessee’s New Anti-Drag Law Could Subject Performers to Up to 6 Years in Jail
Under the state law, performing publicly in drag is a misdemeanor, and “repeat offenders” could be charged with a felony.
![Public restroom sign with outlines of people](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0308-restroom-400x300.jpg)
Arkansas Senate Passes “Most Extreme” Anti-Trans Bathroom Bill in the US
The measure now heads to the GOP-run state House of Representatives, where it is expected to pass.
![The Tennessee State Capitol is pictured in Nashville, Tennessee.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0308-ten-400x300.jpg)
TN House Passes Bill Letting Clerks Refuse Marriage Licenses to LGBTQ Couples
The bill is a direct challenge to federal marriage equality protections.
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CPAC Speakers Made “Genocidal” Comments Against Trans Community, Observers Warn
The GOP has the goal of "pushing trans people out of public life and eradicating transness," says ACLU's Chase Strangio.
![A detail photo of a collection of small Pride flags at the LGBT Center of Greater Reading in Reading, Pennsylvania, on April 6, 2021.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0304-lgbt-400x300.jpg)
Religious Groups Are Challenging SCOTUS Ruling Against LGBTQ Discrimination
The plaintiffs are seeking religious exemption from hiring LGBTQ employees.
![A person holds a Pride flag as others hold candles during a vigil on evening of Transgender Day of Remembrance, on November 11, 2022, in Wiles-Barre, Pennsylvania.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0303-lgbtq-400x300.jpg)
Gender-Affirming Care Ban in KY Could Have “Deadly Consequences,” Experts Warn
The bill passed the Republican-controlled state House of Representatives on Thursday with a veto-proof majority.
![The Iowa State Capitol building is pictured in Des Moines, Iowa.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/03/2023_0301-iowa-400x300.jpg)
Iowa Republicans Propose Amendment That Would Ban Same-Sex Marriages
The proposal is unlikely to pass, as a majority of the state’s residents support preserving marriage equality.
![The Nebraska state capital building is pictured in Lincoln, Nebraska.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/02/2023_0228-nebraska-400x300.jpg)
Nebraska Democrat Vows to Filibuster All Bills Until Anti-Trans Bill Is Defeated
If the anti-trans bill advances, Democratic state Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh has vowed to “make it painful for everyone."
![Gov. Ron DeSantis speaking with attendees at the 2022 Student Action Summit at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/02/2023_0224-ron-desantis-400x300.jpg)
Social Media Users Could Be Sued for Defamation Under Florida’s Anti-Press Bill
Evidence affirming factual bigotry couldn't be used in a person's defense if they're sued under the terms of the bill.
![People rally in support of transgender kids in St. Paul, Minnesota, on March 6, 2022.](https://truthout.org/app/uploads/2023/02/2023_0224-trans-rights-400x300.jpg)
Mississippi and Tennessee GOP Move to Ban Lifesaving Health Care for Trans Youth
Advocates say criminalizing gender-affirming care is a direct assault on the physical and mental health of trans youth.