Just as classes are getting started, the Obama Administration passed an order that forces public schools to allow students the choice of restrooms that match their gender identity. Schools can offer students single-use restrooms, but cannot require transgender students to use these single-use restrooms if other students are not required to do the same. Furthermore, schools cannot require a medical diagnosis, or any type of documentation that states the individual’s “internal gender identity” to use the restroom that matches the student’s gender identity.
The purpose of the new order is to provide transgender students a supportive and non-discriminatory environment. Schools that fail to provide students restroom access that matches their gender identity can risk losing federal funds. The Department of Justice and Education has recently released a guidance to help administrators, educators, and parents protect transgender students.
Compliance Poster Company will continue to monitor the order, and states like Texas, North Carolina, and Kentucky that have joined a national debate regarding transgender rights. Stay tuned!