Proponents Worry Transgender Law May Bring Bullies Out Of The Woodwork
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — A day after a first-of-its-kind law granted new rights to transgender students, some are worried it could bring new troubles to those teens.
The law allows them to choose which bathroom and locker room they identify with.
A child psychologist CBS13's Ron Jones spoke with supports the law, but she's concerned about the impact it could have on teens.
"It's very complicated."
Some of Dr. Jenny Cartinella's clients are transgender youth. She's concerned the law is going to place an even brighter spotlight on transgender kids, forcing more school bullies out of the woodwork.
"We are seeing, right now, transgender youth across the country are committing suicide, attempting suicide about 25 times the average national rate."
The Los Angeles Unified School District has had a transgender policy for more than a decade, but the district still says bullying remains the biggest issue.
Cartinella believes the new law gives teachers, students and their parents an opportunity to learn the importance of tolerance.
"The idea is doing a lot of training with parents and teachers on acceptance and changing the culture in schools of more acceptance."
