SACRAMENTO— Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) released the followed statement on AB 1955 (Ward), the Support Academic Futures & Educators for Today's Youth Act (SAFETY Act):
"I proudly support AB 1955, the SAFETY Act, a California LGBTQ Caucus Priority Bill. Let me clear- as a teacher for over twenty years, working with thousands of children- I can say that there is nothing wrong with being transgender, non-binary, or questioning. All children - not just some children - deserve to be who they are. Kids learn better when they feel safe. Teachers teach better and create safer environments when they have knowledge and resources founded in strong pedagogy, and are able to use their expertise. AB 1955 accomplishes all of these things.
"I'm proud to stand with my LGBTQIA+ colleagues in voting for AB 1955."
AB 1955 would strengthen existing California protections against forced outings of LGBTQ+ students in schools and provide critical resources for parents and families of LGBTQ+ students.
Assemblymember Addis voted in support of AB 1955 in Assembly Education Committee yesterday and today on the Assembly floor. The bill now heads to the State Senate.
Dawn Addis was elected to the California State Assembly in 2022 to represent the coastal 30th Assembly District, which includes San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties.
CONTACT: Julie Cravotto, (916) 319-2030