On February 18th, Mayor Greg Meister brought up a motion to “Protect Women’s Safe Spaces.” A 5-0 vote agreed to have this proposal move forward. This ordinance would not allow trans people to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity. It also would not allow trans people in sports and locker rooms. This proposal is disguised as a way to “protect women” when it is instead a direct attack on trans people in the community. Mayor Meister said himself that this has not been an issue in our community, but that he is just following national trends. It is essential that this ordinance does not go into affect, and that the trans community in Porterville may remain safe. 

Here is a link to the local newspaper article. https://www.recorderonline.com/news/mayor-proposes-protect-womens-safe-spaces-ordinance/article_c6d58780-eeee-11ef-8ff4-a3b17145a614.html