Michigan House passed HB 4474 that makes ‘intimidating’ an individual by using wrong pronouns can result in prison time or a $10,000 fine.
In a questionable decision that has sparked controversy, Michigan House Democrats have successfully passed House Bill 4474. This highly contentious legislation, presented as part of a comprehensive package of bills, seeks to replace the well-established Ethnic Intimidation Act currently in effect in the state.
Critics argue that the passage of House Bill 4474 is a significant departure from existing laws, potentially undermining traditional values and societal norms. The bill, which claims to combat discrimination and protect individuals based on gender identity and sexual orientation, has garnered mixed reactions from lawmakers and the public alike.
The newly passed House Bill 4474 addresses the issue of intentional intimidation through the use of unpreferred gender pronouns. Under the proposed legislation, such acts would be classified as felonies, carrying penalties of a fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of five years.
The bill received a favorable vote of 59-50 in the Michigan House, and it is now expected to move to the Democrat-controlled Senate for further consideration. Should it receive approval in the Senate, Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) is anticipated to sign the bill into law.
While the legislation garnered support from the majority of House Democrats, it did face criticism from Michigan Representative Angela Rigas (R). Rigas expressed concerns over what she described as the inclusion of “gender delusion” as a protected class, raising potential implications for the legal system and conservatives.
“We need to be cautious about the potential consequences this may have within our courts and the further weaponization of the system against conservative individuals,” Rigas stated. “Similar concerns were voiced during discussions on ‘conversion’ therapy bans. It appears that Democrats are increasingly inclined to dictate how people should think.”
As the bill advances to the Senate, its proponents emphasize the importance of fostering a more inclusive and respectful society that values the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. The legislation aims to create a stronger framework for protecting marginalized communities and deterring acts of intimidation and discrimination based on gender pronouns.
“Make no mistake about it. Those advocating for this legislation will wield these policies as a weapon capable of destroying conservative expression or viewpoints grounded in the sacred,” Professor Emeritus William Wagner, a former federal judge and legal counsel in the U.S. Senate told The Daily Wire. “One merely needs to look at the scores of cases brought against schools, churches, businesses, and individuals around our country. Proponents use these laws to silence and financially cripple those who dare to adhere to a different viewpoint and oppose their agenda.”
“Unfortunately here in Michigan, we have lost all three branches of power in our state,” Rigas said. “While my colleagues are introducing great bills to counter the infringements to our freedoms, there is no current way to fix these issues without higher courts becoming involved.”
The passing of such a ridiculous law that violates the first amendment could prove to be a dangerous precedent in the country.
