LINCOLN- On Thursday, the Nebraska Legislature voted 33-16 to advance Sen. Kauth's LB574, a bill that would bar transgender youth under the age of 19 from receiving gender-affirming care. The controversial bill sparked hours of debate, and Sen. Kauth offered her colleagues an "olive branch" amendment, but told the body to vote 'no' on it. All 32 Republican senators voted to invoke cloture and advance the bill, as well as Democratic Senator Mike McDonnell.

Prior to the bill's passage, Sen. Hunt withdrew several motions, and appealed to Sen. Kauth, saying, "Let's see the olive branch." Sen. Kauth responded by telling Hunt "We have our votes," prompting Speaker John Arch to put the Legislature on pause for forty-five minutes to allow for compromise and off-the-mic discussion. "I do appreciate your patience with this," Arch told the body, "This is a complex situation. And as they say it, it impacts not only the public but also proceedings of the Legislature."

Despite the bill's advancement, Sens. George Dungan and John Cavanaugh, two attorneys, questioned the constitutionality of the bill, stating that it might infringe upon the fourth amendment since it could be considered "discrimination in [a] federal court." Sen. Dungan also appealed to his Republic colleagues to consider a future amendment, and to move forward in a way that would significantly minimize harm. "I do not think that you are malicious," he said, "I think you are trying to help. Please listen: don't be sympathetic or pity people. Be empathetic and understand where people are coming from."

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