menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Transgender Bathroom Ban Takes Effect in House-Controlled Capitol Spaces

2 0
08.01.2025

Under a policy renewed on Friday by House Speaker Mike Johnson, transgender people will be prohibited from using single-sex bathrooms that correspond with their gender in areas belonging to the House of Representatives. The policy, which states that “all single-sex facilities — such as restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms — are reserved for individuals of that biological sex,” is now in effect.

Although earlier reports indicated that the policy was not officially part of the House rules package passed on Friday during the first session, the ban was listed among Speaker Johnson’s policies for the 119th Congress, as reflected in the Congressional Record, a daily account of congressional proceedings.

According to the Congressional Record, the policy will be enforced by the sergeant-at-arms and applies to “all areas of the Capitol subject to the Speaker’s general control.” This includes the House chamber, the hallways and pathways in the Capitol designated for House use, and any unassigned rooms in that area, per the House rules.

“While this will be enforced by the sergeant-at-arms, it’s still unclear how they intend to do so,” transgender legislative researcher Allison Chapman told Truthout.

While the policy was first proposed by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-South........

© Truthout