Labeling it “divisive legislation,” Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed Senate Bill 63, the so-called “Help Not Harm Act,” which would prohibit healthcare providers from treating a child whose gender identity differs from their sex at birth.
The bill passed overwhelmingly in both houses of the Republican-dominated legislature and in the Senate by a veto-proof majority. The House came up one vote short of the 2/3 majority needed to override a veto, but four GOP members didn’t vote.
In her veto message, Governor Kelly criticized what she saw as legislative interference in private family medical decisions:
“Right now, the Legislature should be focused on ways to help Kansans cope with rising prices. That is the most important issue for Kansans. That is where my focus is.
“Infringing on parental rights is not appropriate, nor is it a Kansas value. As I’ve said before, it is not the job of politicians to stand between a parent and a child who needs medical care of any kind. This legislation will also drive families, businesses, and healthcare workers out of our state, stifling our economy and exacerbating our workforce shortage issue.
“It is disappointing that the Legislature continues to push for government interference in Kansans’ private medical decisions instead of focusing on issues that improve all Kansans’ lives.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 63.”
Both legislative leaders quickly pounced on the governor’s decision, posting on X. House Speaker Dan Hawkins said the governor is risking the safety of Kansas kids:
“Today, Governor Kelly vetoed the Help Not Harm Act, and in doing so, has chosen partisan politics over the safety and wellbeing of our Kansas children. House Republicans stand ready to override this reckless and senseless veto.”
Senate President Ty Masterson vowed to hold together his body’s veto-proof majority:
“The governor’s devotion to extreme left-wing ideology knows no bounds, vetoing a bipartisan bill that prevents the mutilation of minors. The Senate stands firmly on the side of protecting Kansas children and will swiftly override her veto before the ink from her pen is dry.”
