On a party-line vote today, the Nebraska Legislature passed LB574, a bill banning gender-affirming care for trans minors and a 12-week abortion ban.
LB574, dubbed the “Let Them Grow Act,” introduced by Sen. Kathleen Kauth (R) of Omaha, passed with an emergency clause, meaning it will become law once Gov. Pillen (R) signs the legislation. The bill bans genital surgeries and limits puberty blockers and hormonal therapy. In addition, the chief medical officer, an ear, nose and throat specialist, will draft regulations and rules surrounding eligibility for hormonal gender-affirming care for trans youth.
On Tuesday, lawmakers amended an abortion ban of 12 weeks gestational age to LB574 after a proposed 6-week abortion ban failed to overcome the 33-vote filibuster on April 27. The new 12-week ban allows exceptions for rape, incest and saving the mother’s life but does not allow for an exception for fatal fetal anomalies.
The bill’s final passage came after passionate debates on the legislature floor and protests outside and within the chamber in the Rotunda.
Below are photos and videos of the day.
