Protecting LGBTQ Rights
Protecting LGBTQ Rights
Governor Cuomo launched a campaign to legalize gestational surrogacy and ban the gay and trans panic defense before the end of session on June 19. The legalization of gestational surrogacy would allow same-sex couples and couples struggling with infertility to conceive a child through assisted reproduction. A ban on the gay and trans panic legal defense would prohibit people accused of violent crimes from using homophobia and transphobia as a viable defense strategy in court.
The Time Is Now
We Must Pass Legislation Critical to Protecting LGBTQ Rights
Legalize Gestational Surrogacy
The passage of this bill would lift the ban on surrogacy contracts and also ensure protections for all parties involved.
Ban the Gay and Trans Panic Defense
The passage of this bill would close a loophole in state law that currently allows individuals to use the gay and trans panic defenses after attacking another based upon a perception, or discovery of, that victim's gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Bills Included in Governor's Executive Budget
Both bills were proposed in the Governor’s FY 2020 Executive Budget but were not adopted by the legislature, leaving them to be considered during the remainder of the legislative session which ends June 19.
Championing LGBTQ Rights
Always on the Front Lines Fighting for Full Protections
Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act
Governor Cuomo signed into law the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act and legislation banning the practice of conversion therapy.
Health Care Protections for Transgender New Yorkers
Governor Cuomo announced actions to counter the Trump Administration's expected efforts to legalize discrimination against transgender individuals seeking health care.
Marriage Equality Act
Governor Cuomo spearheaded the passage of the Marriage Equality Act in 2011, granting same-sex couples the freedom to marry under the law.