SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The ACLU of Utah has signaled court action may be coming over a gender bathroom bill that was recently signed by Gov. Spencer Cox.
Supporters of the measure said HB 257 protects the privacy and safety of women. Opponents, including the ACLU, said it targets transgender people.
“With each disruption to the rights of transgender Utahns we will use every means available, including legal action, when necessary, to defend their civil rights and liberties,” said the ACLU on Wednesday. “By imposing unduly restrictive rules on accessing facilities and programs based on a person sex designated at birth, the bill disrupts the ability of Individuals in communities to live their lives as valued members of society.”
The ACLU also said the measure “raises serious constitutional concerns.”
Senate President Stuart Adams said he has not had communication from the Attorney General’s Office on HB 257, but believes it is “sustainable” against potential legal challenge.
It calls for people to use restrooms in public buildings, including schools, that correspond to their gender at birth. If a person fully transitioned, and changed their birth certificate to reflect it, they could use the restroom with their new gender.
The Utah Attorney General’s Office had no comment on the bathroom measure on Wednesday.
Equality Utah also had no comment on a potential lawsuit.
