Oppose HB 2062: Protect Vital SOGI Data Collection for Youth Services

I am writing to express my deep concern about Arizona House Bill 2062 from the 2025 legislative session, which was recently vetoed by the Governor on April 15, 2025. This bill, if enacted, would severely restrict the ability of governmental programs to collect Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) data. Such a limitation would have far-reaching negative consequences for our state's youth, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+. The collection of SOGI data through anonymous surveys is crucial for developing and maintaining programs that provide essential support for queer youth. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real lives and real needs in our communities. Without this data, we risk losing vital funding for support programs, as budget allocations often rely on demonstrable need. HB 2062 would require schools, government agencies, and state departments to identify individuals only as "male" or "female" when reporting statistics. This oversimplification erases the lived experiences of many young Arizonans and could lead to a dangerous assumption that queer youth simply do not exist in our state. The potential impact of this bill is particularly concerning given its severability clause, which states that if any section is found to be illegal, the rest of the bill remains in effect. This could result in a patchwork implementation that further complicates data collection and analysis. I urge you to oppose any future attempts to reintroduce legislation similar to HB 2062. Instead, I ask that you support initiatives that protect and expand SOGI data collection. This information is critical for creating inclusive policies, allocating resources effectively, and ensuring that all Arizona youth, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, receive the support they need to thrive. The well-being of our young people should be a top priority. By maintaining comprehensive data collection, we can make informed decisions that truly serve all members of our diverse community. Please stand with Arizona's youth and against any legislation that would limit our ability to understand and meet their needs.