In an unprecedented move, California has become the first state to legislate the display of gender-neutral sections in large retail stores, sparking controversy and resistance among certain groups and individuals.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill No. 10584, mandating retailers with over 500 employees to include a section for childcare items and toys that are gender-neutral.
This requirement, which carries fines of up to $500 for non-compliance, is set to take effect in the new year.
Assemblyman Evan Low (D-Campbell), the bill’s proponent, advocates for the end of gender-stigmatization in children’s products.
Low’s stance is that children should be able to access toys like police cars or glitter without gender-based stereotypes.
However, this view is not universally accepted. Former California State Sen. Melissa Melendez (R-Lake Elsinore) criticized the bill, emphasizing the importance of parental choice in shopping for their children, challenging the necessity of government intervention in such matters.
Businesses and conservative groups have also expressed opposition, arguing that this is another layer of government regulation hampering the free market.
The Capitol Resource Institute, advocating for Judeo-Christian values, sees this legislative action as an overreach, disrupting the natural process of supply and demand.
Similarly, Jonathan Keller, president of the California Family Council, has lambasted the law as a violation of free speech and an inappropriate government intrusion into retail practices.
The law comes in the wake of controversies surrounding retail giants like Target, which faced backlash for its Pride collection, including “tuck-friendly” bathing suits.
Despite such controversies, some ‘woke’ companies like Lego have expressed support for more inclusive toy options, aligning with the bill’s intentions.
Retailers who fail to comply with the new legislation by January 1, 2024, will face financial penalties.
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