RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Democratic Governor Josh Stein has used his veto power to reject three controversial anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) bills and another measure targeting transgender rights, setting the stage for further clashes with Republican lawmakers.
The vetoed legislation has been a focal point for GOP leaders, who argue that the bills aim to eliminate perceived biases in government and education while promoting parental rights and protecting women.
In a statement, Stein expressed concern that the Republican-controlled legislature is prioritizing these divisive measures over pressing fiscal responsibilities, notably the budget for the new fiscal year that started recently. He asserted that the legislature’s focus on these bills was a distraction from critical issues that should unite rather than divide the state.
Stein described the proposed legislation as harmful and mean-spirited, stating that they would marginalize vulnerable populations and undermine the quality of public services and education.
The measures aimed at cutting or eliminating DEI initiatives have gained traction among Republican lawmakers. They maintain that such programs have favored identity politics at the expense of merit and societal cohesion.
In addition to the anti-DEI measures, another vetoed bill initially appeared bipartisan, targeting the sexual exploitation of women and minors through age verification and consent on pornography websites. However, as the bill progressed, it was amended to include provisions that would restrict state-funded gender transition procedures for inmates, affirm the traditional definition of two sexes, and require transgender individuals to attach their new birth certificates to their original ones after formally changing their gender.
This legislation aligns with President Donald Trump’s agenda to dismantle DEI practices and restrict transgender rights. After Stein’s veto, the bills will return to the General Assembly, which might attempt to override the veto later this month. Despite Republican dominance, they currently lack a veto-proof majority in the House by one seat.
Notably, no Democratic lawmakers supported the anti-DEI measures, although one House Democrat backed the vetoed bill concerning sexual exploitation.
House Speaker Destin Hall criticized Stein for the veto, asserting that he chose to side with ‘radical activists’ over the majority of North Carolinians who support traditional parental rights and biological definitions. The bill also included provisions requiring school districts to adopt policies that allow parents to excuse their children from activities that conflict with their religious beliefs.
Stein, in his veto message, expressed his support for combating sexual exploitation but claimed that the final form of the bill had gone too far. He emphasized his belief that all individuals are deserving of dignity and respect, notably those vulnerable to discrimination and harm.
As for the vetoed anti-DEI measures, one bill proposed banning training, staffing, and hiring practices that incorporate DEI within state agencies. Furthermore, it would prohibit the use of state funds for DEI programs, with civil penalties for those who violate the law. The other two bills sought to restrict the teaching of ‘divisive concepts’ within public education across the state.
Stein remarked that the bill imposing restrictions on governments was fraught with vague definitions while imposing severe penalties for potential violations. He articulated the necessity for students to learn from diverse perspectives without altering historical truths.
In response, Senate leader Phil Berger voiced his disagreement with Stein’s decisions, claiming that the governor was neglecting the sentiments of the populace weary of what he termed ‘politically correct nonsense.’
Since taking office, Stein has issued 11 vetoes, with all occurring within the last two weeks.
Among the eight bills that Stein signed on the same day, one specifically protects certain abuse and neglect allegations against parents or caregivers of transgender children by aligning this with the child’s biological sex. Additionally, it states that adoption agencies cannot deny individuals the opportunity to adopt based on their stance regarding a child’s transition.
Proponents argued that the measures are necessary to uphold family values in raising children. In contrast, critics asserted that such regulations could adversely affect transgender youth and interfere with family dynamics that are typically governed by separate laws.
When questioned about the reasoning behind signing the controversial measure, spokesperson Kate Frauenfelder explained that the governor believes parents have the right to raise their children according to their belief systems, though child abuse will not be tolerated.
Stein remains optimistic that the state’s health and social services will continue to find appropriate placements for children, maintaining a focus on their best interests.
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