MISSOULA — Montana's state’s 67th legislative session began last week, which means Missoula officials are busy tracking proposed legislation that they say could affect the city.
City council president Bryan Von Lossberg got the ball rolling at Monday’s council meeting when he introduced two bills he wants the city to oppose. Both bills regard transgender legislation, and are sponsored by Republican John Fuller of Whitefish.
One of those bills, HB112, “An Act Creating the ‘Save the Women’s Sports Act,’” would require interscholastic athletes to participate under sex assigned at birth.
HB113 is described to “provide for youth health protection.” HB113 would prohibit certain medications and medical procedures for the treatment of gender dysphoria in minors, while also establishing a civil penalty for healthcare providers providing prohibited treatment.
Von Lossberg urged the council to oppose the bills, deeming them discriminatory.
“I think it's important to note Missoula’s role in being the first city in the state, back before I started serving on council, to pass a non-discrimination ordinance, and these bills certainly conflict with that spirit and ethic,” said von Lossberg.
No actions were taken by the city regarding those bills Monday night. You can find all the information about the state legislation and bills the city is tracking here.
