1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Texas House Bill 3817, introduced by Representative Tom Oliverson, which seeks to establish the criminal offense of “gender identity fraud.” This bill proposes to penalize individuals who identify their biological sex as different from the sex assigned at birth when interacting with governmental entities or employers, classifying such actions as a state jail felony punishable by up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. My concerns regarding HB 3817 are as follows: 1. Violation of Individual Rights: The bill effectively criminalizes the expression of one’s gender identity, infringing upon personal freedoms and autonomy. By penalizing individuals for identifying with a gender different from their sex assigned at birth, the legislation undermines the fundamental rights to self-identification and expression. 2. Negative Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community: HB 3817 disproportionately targets transgender and non-binary individuals, exacerbating stigma and discrimination. Such legislation can lead to increased marginalization, mental health challenges, and barriers to employment and public services for these communities. 3. Conflict with Constitutional Protections: The proposed bill raises significant constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the First Amendment’s protection of free speech and the Fourteenth Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection under the law. Criminalizing gender identity expression may be deemed discriminatory and unconstitutional. 4. Detrimental Social and Economic Consequences: Enacting HB 3817 could deter talented individuals from residing or working in Texas, negatively impacting the state’s diversity and economic growth. It may also lead to costly legal challenges, diverting resources from other critical state needs. I urge you to consider the profound implications of HB 3817 and to oppose this legislation. Upholding the rights and dignity of all Texans, regardless of their gender identity, is essential for fostering an inclusive and just society. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. Sincerely,