Texas - Keshet

Keshet is working with secular LGBTQ+ rights organizations and Jewish organizations to fight for LGBTQ+ equality in Texas. Along with local synagogues, we are working with Equality Texas to mobilize Jewish communities for LGBTQ+ rights. To get involved in Texas, sign up here.

Pro-LGBTQ+ Laws

Nondiscrimination policies for state employees
Ability to change gender marker on birth certificate
Nondiscrimination protections in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity
State is unclear regarding surgical/clinical requirements and/or may require a court order to change gender marker
State law does not require publication of name change announcement
- However, there are additional restrictions and/or requirements for individuals with a criminal record
Hate crime law covering sexual orientation only

Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws

Law banning best practice medical care for transgender youth
State employees do not receive transgender iInclusive health benefits
There are no protections against discrimination in housing, credit/lending, jury service, or public accommodations for LGBTQ+ people
Hate crime law does not cover gender identity
State family leave policies do not include inclusive definitions of spouse/partner/parent/child
Gay/trans panic defense is not banned
Gov. Abbott has attempted to institute a ban on gender-affirming medical care, though no law has officially been enacted state agencies have been directed to follow this order
No adoption or foster care nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ parents
- State explicitly permits state-licensed child welfare agencies to refuse to place and provide services to children and families, including LGBTQ+ people and same-sex couples, if doing so conflicts with their religious belief
No second-parent adoption for unmarried couples
No nondiscrimination or anti-bullying laws covering LGBTQ+ students
No conversion therapy ban covering LGBTQ+ youth
State law prevents transgender students from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity
Broad religious exemption law which weaponizes religion as justification for LGBTQ+ discrimination
No gender neutral options on driver’s license or birth certificates
State law censors discussions of LGBTQ+ people or issues in school (i.e., “Don’t Say Gay or Trans”)
State law prevents transgender students from using school facilities consistent with their gender
State law bans schools and districts from passing LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination and/or anti-bullying policies

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Pro-LGBTQ+ Laws

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