Daily newsletter 2/6

➡️ Virginia’s new Governor Abigail Spanberger is on a roll, signing legislation that will allow voters to weigh in on the state’s ban on same-sex marriage, as well as a proposed reproductive rights amendment.

We also have an encouraging update on Florida’s funding cuts for HIV medication, and Republicans in Utah are ignoring research they commissioned themselves to pass a ban on gender-affirming care for youth.

And we’re rounding out the week with explainers on how Black Americans are disproportionately criminalized for living with HIV, and the state of LGBTQ+ rights in Italy as the Winter Olympics kick off.

Have a good weekend,

Christine Linnell Social media manager, The Advocate

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger sends marriage equality & abortion rights amendments to voters

“We want to make sure that Virginia families know that here in Virginia, it is not just a Supreme Court decision that protects them, but it is also our state constitution," the Democratic governor said.

Florida restores funding for 16,000 people's HIV medication — for now

Florida has reversed funding cuts for HIV medication — but only until it can go through the formal rule-making process.

Utah Republicans, ignoring their own study, pass ban on gender-affirming care for youth

Utah Republicans have passed a bill restricting gender-affirming care for youth, ignoring research they commissioned.

Black Americans are disproportionately criminalized for living with HIV. Here's how

Through "heightened surveillance, arrest, and conviction," Black Americans are more likely to be criminalized for their HIV.

What to know about LGBTQ+ rights — or lack thereof — in Italy as Olympics begin

The nation, which has a far-right government, lags many others in Europe when it comes to LGBTQ+ equality.

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