Board unanimously reaffirms county support for LGBTQ+ individuals and women's reproductive and bodily autonomy

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution reaffirming the county's commitment to protect and support LGBTQ+ individuals and women's bodily autonomy and to monitor and respond to federal policy changes that could threaten local services.

Supervisor Monica Martinez introduced the resolution, citing a history of county action dating to 1975 and more recent local resolutions on reproductive and transgender rights. Martinez asked the county administrative officer to work with departments to identify any federal or state policy shifts that could reduce funding or impede services for LGBTQ+ people and women and to return to the board with recommended actions or a special meeting if rapid response is required.

Health Services Agency Director Monica Morales described internal actions the county has taken and intends to take: reinforcing staff messaging and training, expanding communication and outreach to community-based organizations, and organizing cross-agency workgroups to track policy changes and support service continuity. County EEO Officer Mitsuno Bauermeister described internal personnel policies already in place, including a county gender-inclusion policy and regular training to make county workplaces safe and affirming for transgender and gender-diverse employees.

Public commenters urged the board to adopt the measure; advocates and service providers — including Planned Parenthood and local youth and community organizations — spoke in support. Supervisors noted the resolution is both a message of solidarity for vulnerable residents and a practical step directing staff to identify risks and respond quickly if federal actions threaten locally funded programs.

The resolution passed unanimously and the board directed staff to return with assessments and recommendations as federal policies evolve.