California Attorney General Rob Bonta today secured a decision from the California Supreme Court in Taking Offense v. State of California (Taking Offense) upholding anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ residents of long-term care facilities in the state. The Court’s opinion holds that Senate Bill 219’s (SB 219) requirement that long-term care facility staff refer to LGBTQ residents by their proper name and gender does not violate anyone’s right to free speech.
“All individuals deserve to live free from harmful, disrespectful rhetoric that attacks their sense of self, especially when receiving care necessary for their continued well-being,” said Attorney General Bonta. “State law prohibits discrimination and harassment in the workplace. I am glad that the California Supreme Court agrees with us on the importance of these protections and has affirmed their constitutionality. We will continue to fight to ensure LGBTQ seniors, other long-term care facility residents, and all Californians remain protected from attacks against their right to respectful and dignified treatment.”