SACRAMENTO, CA — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1775, legislation authored by Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) to provide critical housing, employment, and transition-to-civilian-life support to service members discharged from the U.S. military as a result of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14183 targeting transgender service members.
“When Trump’s D.C. fails those who served, California will step up to ensure no veteran is left behind,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward. “These service members answered the call to serve our country, and many were forced out through no fault of their own. They deserve to come home to a California that recognizes their service and helps them rebuild stable lives. AB 1775 ensures that veterans facing sudden unemployment, housing instability, and barriers to civilian employment have access to the support they need to move forward. I’m grateful to Governor Newsom for signing this legislation and proud that California is standing with the veterans who were unjustly forced out of uniform.”
“We’re thrilled that California is stepping up to help keep our promises to all those who served. While brave servicemembers are being targeted by their own government simply because of who they are, we strongly support the leadership of Governor Newsom and Assemblymember Ward. We encourage other states to follow California’s example to support veterans, and commit to staying at that table with our allies and partners for the hard work ahead to implement these historic programs,” said Luke Schleusener, CEO of Out In National Security, AB 1775’s co-sponsor.
“Putting AB 1775 into law once again shows California as a leader in standing up for equal rights, that veterans should not be discriminated against for being transgender. SPARTA Pride looks forward to other states following California in the fight for military transgender rights,” said Katherine Koehlmoos, member of the Board of Directors of SPARTA Pride, AB 1775’s co-sponsor.
AB 1775 was part of Assemblymember Ward’s broader effort to ensure veterans receive the support they need to transition successfully into civilian life in the Golden State. The legislation establishes support for eligible veterans discharged as a result of the Trump Administration’s transgender military ban, including assistance with housing, employment, civilian transition, discharge upgrades, and professional licensing.
“California has always understood that when someone puts on the uniform and serves our country, that service matters,” said Assemblymember Ward. “AB 1775 sends a clear message to every veteran who has served our nation: California sees you, California values your service, and California will be here to help you build a future after service. I’m proud to have worked alongside veterans and advocates to get this bill across the finish line, and I thank Governor Newsom for signing it into law.”