BY: Sierra Kennedy
Published 2 weeks ago
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is drawing both praise and pushback after vetoing several high-profile bills aimed at restricting the rights of transgender individuals. The decision marks a critical moment in the state’s ongoing battles over LGBTQIA+ rights—and positions Hobbs as one of the few Democratic governors in a state with a Republican-controlled legislature actively blocking anti-trans legislation.
Why the Arizona Governor Vetoed the Trans Bill
In her veto letter for Senate Bill 1182 — which would have prohibited transgender students from using school showers aligned with their gender identity — Gov. Hobbs didn’t mince words.
“As I have said time and time again, I will not sign legislation that attacks Arizonans,” she wrote, noting that the bill did nothing to enhance public safety, education, or opportunity.
She issued similar statements for other proposed measures, including one that would have banned people from updating gender markers on official documents, and another that targeted DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs.
The message was clear: Hobbs isn’t interested in performative policy. She’s focused on protecting the rights of all Arizonans—even when it means facing backlash.
Community Reactions: Praise from Advocates, Outrage from Opponents
LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups applauded the vetoes, calling them necessary protections at a time when anti-trans legislation is sweeping the country. The Human Rights Campaign was among the first to issue a public thank you, especially highlighting Hobbs’ rejection of SB 1040, which would have banned trans students and school staff from using bathrooms aligned with their identities.
“We sincerely thank Gov. Hobbs for rejecting SB 1040—a shameful bill designed to alienate and stigmatize trans school personnel and kids,” said Bridget Sharpe, HRC Arizona State Director.
Civil rights orgs echoed the sentiment, calling Hobbs’ leadership “essential” and a “lifeline” for trans youth in Arizona.
On the flip side, conservative lawmakers and groups have condemned the move. Many argue the bills were designed to protect women’s spaces, parental rights, or “traditional values.” Several Republican legislators have publicly criticized Hobbs for, in their opinion, creating dangerous spaces.
But Hobbs isn’t budging. In fact, she’s building a track record of standing her ground.
This Isn’t Her First Veto—And It Won’t Be Her Last
As of May 2025, Hobbs is nearing her previous record of 143 vetoes in a single legislative session — a record she set in 2023. Her veto power has become a key tool in blocking a slew of culture war bills pushed by the GOP-led legislature.
These repeated rejections have frustrated lawmakers but energized supporters who say Hobbs is one of the few governors talking the talk and walking the walk regarding LGBTQIA+ protections.
Her approach? If the bill doesn’t improve quality of life or promote equity, it’s a no.
What’s Next for Trans Rights in Arizona?
The vetoes send a powerful message, but the legislative battle is far from over in the US as a whole. Similar bills will likely return in future sessions, and with a heated election year ahead, the culture war rhetoric isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
In the meantime, groups like the Human Rights Campaign, Equality Arizona, and GLSEN continue to advocate, educate, and organize around protecting queer and trans lives. Hobbs’ decision gives them breathing room—but not a break.
How do you feel about Gov. Hobbs’ veto? Are you seeing similar legislation proposed where you live? Let’s keep this conversation going—drop your thoughts below and show support where it counts.
