The use of gender neutral pronouns in state policies and regulations passed in the Assembly Committee today.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 260 won in a bipartisan vote of 7-0 and is authored by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley), Chair of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus. It is also co-authored by all members of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus.
“California is home to the largest LGBTQ population in the country, many of whom identify as non-binary,” Assemblymember Low said. “By using gender-neutral pronouns in legislation and policies moving forward, the State of California celebrates its non-binary community.”
ACR 260 sets the intention for the state to be more inclusive for transgender, gender neutral and non-binary individuals by adopting the use of gender-neutral pronouns in new legislation and other public documents, as well as to begin the process of revising existing statutes to use gender-neutral language.
Much of California’s legal language uses the traditional gendered pronouns “he” and “she.” Since many citizens do not identify with binary gender definitions, find themselves fixed or fluctuating along a gender spectrum or feel removed from the concept of gender entirely. The use of language that is not inclusive to all citizens, California disenfranchises minorities that already face blatant discrimination. This is not reflective of the state’s other inclusive policies or the values of the general electorate, according to a press release.
ACR 260 also calls on California departments and agencies to engage in similar efforts when drafting policies, regulations, and other guidance. ACR 260 will now go to the Assembly floor.
