Az Gov. Hobbs Takes Bold Step in Controversial LGBTQ+ Content Censorship Bill

In a significant move that has raised alarm among LGBTQ+ and civil rights advocates, Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona defied her party by signing House Bill 2112. This legislation mandates that websites with over one-third of their content classified as “sexual material” must implement age verification systems, posing potential risks to the accessibility of LGBTQ+ information.

Although the bill aims to shield minors from inappropriate content, similar laws in other states have led to closures of adult entertainment websites. Critics argue that HB 2112 could also restrict access to educational resources focused on LGBTQ+ topics, with some Republican lawmakers labeling certain relevant literature as “pornographic.” The bill’s vague language regarding what constitutes sexual material leaves much to interpretation.

Mike Stabile, public policy director for the Free Speech Coalition, criticized the legislation as a form of broad censorship disguised as child protection. “They come in with what seems like a very common sense argument, but in reality, what’s being passed is a broad censorship bill for the internet,” he stated.

Initially, HB 2112 garnered significant Democratic support in the House. However, after lobbyists highlighted the legislation’s potential consequences, many lawmakers reconsidered their votes following an amendment that introduced further complications.

This bill aligns with the objectives of Project 2025, a coalition of influential conservative organizations, including Arizona’s Alliance Defending Freedom. Their agenda focuses on implementing extreme changes within the U.S. government, explicitly targeting “transgender ideology” and so-called “sexualization of children.” Their framework calls for drastic measures, labeling educators and public librarians as complicit in child exploitation.

Stabile pointed out that the vague terminology regarding harmful material has been used to justify the removal of LGBTQ+ resources from libraries and threaten educators promoting inclusive environments. The sex education platform O.school has initiated legal action against states adopting similar laws, including HB 2112, to mitigate potential liabilities.

The signing of this bill took many queer and allied political figures in Arizona by surprise, as Hobbs previously received accolades from civil rights groups for opposing anti-LGBTQ+ measures. Now, she faces criticism for her shift in stance on this critical issue.

In the past month, the governor has vetoed various proposals that seek to redefine gender in state laws, restrict judicial rulings on transgender birth certificates, and penalize healthcare providers for offering gender-transition services to minors.

As of now, the governor’s office has not responded to inquiries regarding the reasoning behind this controversial decision.