H.R.3133: Gay and Trans Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2019
Overview
The Gay and Trans Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2019 would prohibit the use of gay and trans “panic” defenses in court. Gay and trans “panic” defenses are used by defendants in court who have committed violent acts against others. Defendants in such cases argue that violence is a rational reaction to discovering that someone is part of the LGBTQ+ community. Gay and trans “panic” defenses characterize sexual orientation and gender identity as objectively reasonable excuses for loss of self-control, and thereby illegitimately mitigate the responsibility of a perpetrator for harm done to LGBTQ+ individuals. The Senate version of this bill is S. 1721.
Talking Points
- Gay and trans “panic” defenses appeal to irrational fear and hatred of the LGBTQ+ community and institutionalize prejudice at the expense of LGBTQ+ individuals.
- The National Assembly is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The National Assembly envisions equity as the condition in which differences among people have no influence on how they fare in society.
- Equity is advanced through the implementation of policies, practices, attitudes, and cultural messages that prevent differential outcomes based on the differences among people. This requires a continuous reevaluation of norms, and a commitment to eliminating policies, practices, and systems that perpetuate inequity, so that all people are fully welcomed, valued, respected, and heard.
- The National Assembly supports S. 1721, legislation that removes systemic barriers for equity and safety for the LGBTQ+ community.