Colorado Governor Jared Polis has officially signed into law a bill aimed at bolstering protections and support for transgender individuals, reaffirming the state’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights amid a national climate of increasing political scrutiny over gender identity issues.

As reported by 9NEWS, Governor Polis, the nation’s first openly gay elected governor, signed the legislation during a ceremony on May 15, 2025.

The new law ensures access to gender-affirming care and legal services for transgender individuals, while also establishing clearer legal pathways for people seeking to amend gender markers on state-issued documents.

“This legislation is about ensuring dignity and respect for everyone, regardless of their gender identity,” Polis said during the signing. “In Colorado, we are not turning back the clock on civil rights—we are moving forward.”

The bill strengthens the state’s designation as a “safe haven” for transgender individuals by shielding patients and providers of gender-affirming care from out-of-state legal interference.

This comes as a growing number of states have introduced or passed laws restricting such medical care, often framing them as child protection measures.

LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, including One Colorado and the Human Rights Campaign, have applauded the move.

“This is a powerful message that trans lives are valid and protected here,” said One Colorado Executive Director Nadine Bridges.

The legislation also introduces expanded access to legal aid for transgender individuals, especially those facing discrimination or barriers in changing their name or gender on official documents.

Critics of the bill argue that it may conflict with laws in other states that ban gender-affirming care, particularly for minors.

However, legal experts believe Colorado’s law is likely to withstand constitutional challenges, citing the state’s authority to determine healthcare and civil protections for its residents.

As tensions over transgender rights continue to grow nationwide, Colorado’s actions mark a distinct departure from the trend of restrictions seen in states like Florida, Texas, and Missouri.

Governor Polis emphasized that “no matter who you are or where you come from, Colorado will remain a place of freedom and inclusion.”