Colorado State Senator Faith Winter is facing criticism following revelations about her approach to conversations with children and her sponsorship of a controversial bill.
In a recent discussion, Winter acknowledged keeping what she referred to as a “crash couch” in her home—a place where, she says, she has hosted children for private conversations about topics such as gender identity and sexuality.
These interactions, she noted, occasionally occurred without parental involvement or approval.
Critics have raised concerns over the implications of such conversations, arguing that bypassing parents on sensitive issues infringes on parental rights.
Supporters, however, defend the practice, stating that children sometimes need a safe space to talk when they feel unsafe or unsupported at home.
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Senator Winter is also the lead sponsor of House Bill 25-1312, a proposal that has sparked heated debate across Colorado.
The bill seeks to update the legal definition of child abuse to include instances where a child’s gender identity or chosen name is disregarded or dismissed by parents.
Under the proposed changes, misgendering a child or refusing to affirm their gender identity could potentially impact custody decisions in court.
Opponents of the bill argue that it represents government overreach and could lead to the erosion of parental rights, particularly for those who hold traditional or religious beliefs about gender and identity.
Proponents argue that it is a necessary measure to protect vulnerable transgender youth from emotional harm and discrimination within their own families.
As HB25-1312 moves through the legislative process, it continues to draw sharp lines between advocates for children’s autonomy and those warning of state interference in family matters.
