1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

As your constituent, I’m writing to strongly urge you to vote NO on SB 36 (the so-called Religious Freedom Restoration Act) and SB 39. Both bills unfairly target LGBTQ Georgians, putting our rights, health, and safety at risk. SB 36 opens the door for discrimination under the guise of religious freedom. Across the country, similar laws have been used to deny LGBTQ people services in healthcare, child welfare, employment, and public life. Georgia lawmakers have wisely rejected this type of legislation for more than a decade—because it’s unnecessary and harmful. That hasn’t changed. SB 39 is equally concerning. It interferes with access to evidence-based medical care for transgender people under the Georgia State Employee Health Benefit Plan, overriding the decisions of doctors and patients. This bill directly contradicts judicial precedent and invites even more costly litigation—burdens that taxpayers end up shouldering. Since 2015, the state has already lost or settled 19 discrimination claims related to denying trans healthcare, costing over $4 million in public funds. No one should have to choose between their health and their job. And politicians should not be making personal medical decisions for Georgia families. These bills do not reflect the values of fairness, privacy, and respect for all. I urge you to stand against discrimination and vote NO on SB 36 and SB 39.