Blossom Dodge

I am writing today to respectfully urge you to vote NO on SB 268, which would explicitly permit the classification of individuals by “biological sex” in certain public spaces and programs, including restrooms, sports, and involuntary facilities. I understand and appreciate the concerns this bill aims to address—privacy, fairness, and safety in specific environments. These are real and valid considerations. However, I am concerned that SB 268 risks doing more harm than good by opening the door to policies that discriminate against transgender individuals, particularly youth. Key Concerns: It undermines existing civil rights protections. While the bill claims not to change anti-discrimination law, it creates carve-outs that effectively allow public institutions to exclude people based on gender identity in key areas of daily life. That sends a dangerous message: that transgender people’s rights and identities are conditional. It threatens the well-being of vulnerable students and adults. Transgender individuals, especially youth, already face high rates of harassment, mental health struggles, and suicide risk. Allowing institutions to deny them access to facilities aligned with their identity can lead to greater isolation and harm, not safety. It is unnecessary and invites confusion. Most schools and public institutions are already managing these situations thoughtfully on a case-by-case basis. SB 268 may create new conflicts and liability questions, and its language around “biological sex” could be difficult to enforce without violating individual privacy or dignity. It reinforces harmful stereotypes. This bill appears to imply that transgender people are a threat to others, despite no credible evidence supporting that claim. That framing can fuel fear, misinformation, and stigma, and it does not reflect the inclusive values that many Granite Staters hold dear. It exposes the state to legal risk. Similar legislation in other states has led to costly lawsuits and federal challenges, especially in light of evolving interpretations of Title IX and equal protection laws. I believe we can uphold safety, fairness, and privacy without writing discrimination into state law. Please reject SB 268 and instead support policies that affirm all students and residents—ensuring everyone has the right to be seen, respected, and included. Thank you for your time and consideration.