SafeHome's LGBTQ+ State Safety Report Cards for 2024 paint a concerning picture for Florida, as the state receives an F grade, ranking second to last in LGBTQ+ safety among all 50 states and Washington, D.C. With a score of 47.5%, Florida's standing reflects a decline from the previous year's ranking, where it placed 15th worst. The report, which incorporates data on hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals from the FBI, reveals a troubling trend. Florida's legal environment is highlighted as one of the worst, with the state ranking last in participation rates for law enforcement agency crime reporting. Factors contributing to this dismal safety score include legislation like the controversial Don’t Say Gay or Trans law, which restricts discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. SafeHome's grading system is based on feedback from 1,000 LGBTQ+ individuals nationwide, as well as an analysis of various laws affecting LGBTQ+ rights in categories such as parenting freedoms, criminal justice rights, nondiscrimination rights, youth protection, and health laws. Florida's poor performance places it alongside South Dakota, which received an equally dismal F rating with a score of 46.8%. Other states in the bottom five include Wyoming, Ohio, and Alabama, all with F ratings. According to SafeHome, these states exhibit legal landscapes more prone to anti-equality measures, with relatively high rates of reported hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people. #Queer Up The USA View