Wyoming Bill On Transgender Access To Restrooms Faces Vote

A bill that would clarify that people can only use restrooms, locker rooms and similar areas corresponding with their sex at birth faces a third and decisive vote in the Wyoming House of Representatives.

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House Bill 72, known as the Protecting women's privacy in public spaces act, is sponsored by Rep. Martha Lawley [R-Big Horn, Washakie counties]. The goal of the bill is to ban transgender access to female restrooms, locker rooms and correctional facilities.

It passed second reading in the Wyoming House on Thursday after previously winning unanimous approval from the House Education Commiittee on a 9-0 vote. It will most likely face a decisive third vote on Friday, although it is possible that vote could be laid back.

If it wins House approval the bill would go on to the state Senate for further consideration.

Rep. Lawley: We Need To Make Women Feel Safe And Respected

In an op-ed on the bill some weeks ago, Rep. Lawley wrote ''This bill ensures that women and girls can feel safe and respected in places where privacy is essential—bathrooms, locker rooms, showers, and correctional facilities.'' 

Lawley has said the issue is one she often heard about during her 2024 election campaign.

ACLU Says Bill Erodes The Rights Of Transgender People

But the ACLU of Wyoming has come out against the measure. ''Like previous efforts to expel people of color, people with disabilities, and others from communal spaces, these arguments for privacy just mask a fear of difference. Eroding the fundamental rights of transgender people is dangerous for every one of us.''

The bill is one of several being considered by Wyoming lawmakers this session dealing with transgender access to restrooms and locker rooms as well as participation in women's sports.