Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon signed two bills into law on March 3, restricting transgender individuals’ access to certain public spaces, including school restrooms and state-associated facilities, KHOL, Jackson Hole Community Radio reports.
The first law, Senate File 62 (SF 62), prohibits public school students from using restrooms and locker rooms that do not align with their sex assigned at birth. The law went into effect immediately.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is designed to protect privacy and safety in gender-segregated facilities. Opponents, however, say it further marginalizes transgender youth and raises concerns about their mental health and safety.
“The fact is that now your identity … is being invalidated by elected officials,” said Layha Spoonhunter, a two-spirit community activist from the Wind River Reservation. “It will put trans youth in a position where safety is an issue for them.”
The second bill, House Bill 72 (HB 72), extends restrictions beyond schools. It prohibits transgender individuals from using sex-designated public spaces associated with the state, such as:
- Community colleges
- Correctional facilities
- Certain bathrooms and locker rooms
HB 72 also allows members of the general public to file lawsuits against facilities that do not enforce the restrictions.
Bill sponsor Rep. Martha Lawley (R-Worland) said the measure aims to clarify policies and prioritize privacy in public institutions. However, critics argue that it will negatively impact the transgender community.
“It’s invasive, and it’s insulting,” said Ari Kamil, a transgender environmental health specialist in Riverton. “This is just doing so much harm, and it is not doing anybody any good.”
HB 72 will take effect on July 1. Governor Gordon did not provide a public statement explaining his decision to sign the two bills.
As of March 7, Governor Gordon had not taken action on:
- Senate File 44 (SF 44) – which would ban transgender athletes from competing on sports teams that match their gender identity.
- The “What is a Woman Act” – which would legally define “biological sex,” “man,” and “woman” and could further restrict transgender individuals’ access to public spaces, including domestic violence shelters and crisis centers.
The new laws are part of a broader national discussion on transgender rights and public accommodations. Advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the potential impacts on transgender individuals’ safety and well-being, while supporters maintain that the laws are necessary for maintaining privacy and fairness.
