California has become the first US state to require large retailers to display toys and childcare items in gender-neutral ways. The new law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on Saturday, does not ban boys and girls sections in shops. But large stores must have also have a separate, gender-neutral section. These must display “a reasonable selection” of toys and childcare items, regardless of whether they’ve been marketed towards a particular sex. Companies will face a $250 (£184) fine for their first violation, and $500 (£368) penalties for others. The new law was passed by California’s state legislature last month, and will come into effect in 2024 now it has been signed by Governor Newsom. It will apply to retailers with 500 or more employees across their California stores. Clothing will be unaffected, but the law will affect toys and any “childcare items” intended to aid sleep, relaxation, feeding, teething or sucking.(BBC)…[+]