Louisiana Bill Would Protect Employees Who Misgender Co-Workers

Proposed legislation aims to shield workers from punishment for using incorrect pronouns, sparking debate over free speech and workplace discrimination.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:20pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and waves of blue, purple, and gold, conceptually representing the complex and fractured political debate over a Louisiana bill regarding gender identity and workplace policies.The Louisiana legislature's debate over a bill protecting employees who misgender co-workers reflects the complex intersection of individual rights, workplace policies, and anti-discrimination efforts.Baton Rouge Today

A bill advancing in the Louisiana Legislature would prohibit private employers from punishing employees who willingly refer to anybody by the incorrect gender pronouns. The bill, proposed by Republican Rep. Raymond Crews, has sparked debate over free speech, religious rights, and workplace discrimination.

Why it matters

The bill represents a significant departure from Louisiana's at-will employment laws, which generally allow employers to terminate workers without cause. Opponents argue the measure could prevent employers from addressing gender-based harassment, while supporters say it protects workers' constitutional rights.

The details

House Bill 1137 would apply whether the individual being misgendered is transgender or cisgender. The bill passed out of a House committee on a party-line vote. Supporters, like Rep. Crews, say the measure will promote workplace harmony and protect free speech, while opponents, like Louisiana Trans Advocates' Peyton Rose Michelle, argue it goes against the state's values of kindness and respect.

  • The bill was advanced by the House Committee on Labor and Industrial Relations on April 10, 2026.
  • The full House of Representatives will next discuss the bill.

The players

Rep. Raymond Crews

A Republican state representative from Bossier City who introduced the bill to protect employees who misgender co-workers.

Peyton Rose Michelle

The executive director of Louisiana Trans Advocates, who argued the bill is "impolite" and not aligned with Louisiana values of kindness and respect.

Rep. Brian Glorioso

A Republican state representative from Slidell who raised concerns the bill could create a dichotomy between state and federal law on hostile workplaces.

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What they’re saying

“It tells every worker, whether in an office, factory, hospital or classroom, that they will not be punished for refusing to participate in someone else's delusion.”

— Rep. Raymond Crews, State Representative

“Respecting one another is one of our biggest values … this is a Louisiana value. We're kind, we're loving. I don't know how this bill fits into that at all. I mean, this bill is impolite. It is not aligned with Louisiana values.”

— Peyton Rose Michelle, Executive Director, Louisiana Trans Advocates

“As an employer, I could be following state law by not disciplining that employee but also violating federal law by allowing a hostile work environment to be created.”

— Rep. Brian Glorioso, State Representative

What’s next

The bill will next be discussed by the full Louisiana House of Representatives.

The takeaway

This bill highlights the ongoing debate over balancing workplace discrimination protections, free speech rights, and religious beliefs. Its passage could set Louisiana apart from federal workplace laws, potentially creating legal conflicts for employers.