Riot police intervene as left-wing protestors disrupt proceedings in Montana state
On Monday, Montana's capitol saw a strong police presence as riot police intervened to disperse left-wing protestors who had disrupted proceedings in the state House of Representatives. The protestors were demonstrating in support of transgender lawmaker Zooey Zephyr, who was censured by the body last week. The protestors were demanding an end to the censure against Zephyr, who was criticized for her comments during a House floor debate on amendments to Senate Bill 99, which would prohibit sex change treatment for minors.
The protest reportedly brought the session to a halt for nearly half an hour, as the group chanted "Let her speak!" The protestors were later arrested by police units from the Montana Highway Patrol and the Lewis and Clark County sheriff’s office. Zephyr, who is bisexual and the first transgender lawmaker in Montana legislature history, had criticized Republicans during the House floor debate, saying that they have "blood on (their) hands." This led to the House voting in favor of her censure on Thursday, citing "hate-filled testimony."
Despite the censure, Zephyr has vowed to continue advocating for the rights of the transgender community. The controversial Senate Bill 99, which Zephyr had opposed, ultimately passed both the state House and Senate and was sent to Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte's desk on Friday. He is expected to sign the bill into law.