Are lawmakers in California insane?

Assembly member Evan Low, D-Silicon Valley, has introduced Assembly Bill 2825. It would impose a $1,000 fine on large retailers that operate different departments for boys’ and girls’ clothing or different departments for childcare products and toys.

What?

In a press release, Low said there is a need to “protect children” from being “stigmatized” when they choose toys or clothing identified with the opposite sex.

This is so wrong on so many levels.

First, the government shouldn’t be mandating to retailers on how they display their merchandize. This is the government controlling expression and therefore a violation of the First Amendment.

Secondly, it sends the wrong message to children.

Brad Dacus, president of The Pacific Justice Institute Center for Public Policy, said, “California is killing freedom, innovation, and common sense with its endless bans, fines, and mandates. Compassion for our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors does not require us to embrace absurdities on gender. No child should be bullied or stigmatized, and neither should the state bully retailers into making it harder for moms and dads to find boys and girls clothing and toys. It’s time for voters to demand more accountability of their elected officials.”   

The bill has not been assigned to a committee but it would be wrong to assume it would die before a vote. Low previously promoted legislation (AB 2943) that wanted to ban counseling sought by adults with unwanted same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria.

That bill was passed by the California Legislature before Low unexpectedly withdrew it.

And people wonder why decent Californians are fleeing that state by the thousands.