The SoCal Voice learned from our sources that today the California Assembly’s Public Safety committee passed a bill sponsored by Equality California (Repeal of Discriminatory Code, AB2199) that would repeal a particularly offensive section of the California Welfare and Institutions code, created in the 1950s, which instructs the State Department of Mental Health to conduct research into the “causes and cures of homosexuality” with the implication that LGBT Californians are sexual deviants, potential sex offenders and a threat to children. The bill is sponsored by Assemblymember Bonnie Lowenthal (D-Long Beach).
EQCA is sponsoring this bill to rid California’s codes of offensive language. Although, while nothing has been done under this section of the code in years, so long as it remains discrimination is still written into law in our state.
The SoCal Voice applauds EQCA for its tireless efforts in cleaning up the stain of hate left on our hearts, in our lives and on our law books.
The final vote of the committee was 4 votes in favor, and three abstentions.
Ammiano – Yes
Hagman –
Beall Jr. – Yes
Gilmore –
Hill – Yes
Portantino –
Skinner – Yes
Next, the bill will go to the full Assembly for consideration. Join us in becoming the voice of reason behind EQCA’s efforts to pass this bill repealing that draconian law (ABAB2199). Contact your local representatives and ask them to vote Yes once this bill comes to a full vote.
Stay tuned. The SoCal Voice will keep you apprised of developments and keep you informed as the bill moves forward!
-The SoCal Voice Team
