Starting this Thursday, a new state law will add an extra layer of anxiety to the lives of trans Texans. They will have to worry — even more than usual — about going to the bathroom.
Senate Bill 8 is designed to prevent trans people from using certain state-owned facilities that match their identifying gender, including in public schools, city halls and state agencies. Commonly called the “bathroom bill,” SB8 will make Texas one of 19 other states that have some sort of restriction on restrooms in schools or public buildings. Supporters of the law say it will make public bathrooms safer, mostly for women. But it’s not clear how it will be enforced when it goes into effect. The bill lacks specific guidance on what policies and practices to use. The bill includes vague guidance for agencies while simultaneously applying some of the highest fines in the country to those who fail to enforce the law.
Opponents of the law say the confusion is intentional, leaving trans Texans feeling frustrated and afraid as they navigate their daily lives.
The bill will allow the Attorney General’s office to investigate agencies that receive complaints for noncompliance. Attorney General Ken Paxton will have final say over whether fines will be enforced and how much they will cost. Agencies will be given just over two weeks to address the issues and avoid a one-time $25,000 fee.
They will also lose that grace period in the future if a court finds them liable.
