Today, Governor Ducey vetoed SB 1456 - a harmful bill that discriminates against the LGBTQ community by requiring parental opt-in before any instruction concerning HIV/AIDS or sexual education and prohibiting all sex education instruction before the 5th grade, including age-appropriate education meant to protect children from abuse. Below is a statement in response to the news:

"It was thanks to the passioned work of advocates, parents, and educators who spoke out against SB 1456 that Gov Ducey made the right call by vetoing this terrible bill. This harmful bill would’ve stigmatized LGBTQ students by requiring parents/guardians to opt their students into any instruction regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Arizona should be a place where every student feels safe, protected and loved. We are proud to stand with the LGBTQ students and allies demanding equal treatment in the classroom. The LGBTQ community is here to stay and won’t be erased.

THANK YOU to all who took action and spoke out against this bill!"