Sununu signs LGBTQ protections

Last week Gov. Chris Sununu signed two notable bills to protect LGBTQ citizens. LGBTQ is an acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning.

The first bill, HB 587, prohibits conversion therapy for anyone under age eighteen. Conversion therapy attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation.

The second bill, HB 1319, prohibits discrimination based on gender identity.

“Discrimination – in any form – is unacceptable and runs contrary to New Hampshire's Live Free or Die Spirit. If we really want to be the Live Free or Die State, we must ensure that New Hampshire is a place where every person, regardless of their background, has an equal and full opportunity to pursue their dreams and to make a better life for themselves and their families.”

- Gov. Sununu

Opponents argued the bills would infringe on privacy rights – censoring speech by therapists and forcing women to share bathrooms with biological men.

Visit our issue page on Gay and Transgender Rights to learn more

Meanwhile the Governor's Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion released a report recommending that the Legislature add gender identity to other laws, such as the hate crime statute.

Do you have an opinion on New Hampshire laws related to LGBTQ status? Share your opinion in the comments below.