Iowa Becomes First State to Eliminate Civil Rights Protections for Transgender Individuals
Governor Kim Reynolds signed a bill redefining 'sex' in state law, removing gender identity from protected classes and sparking concerns over increased discrimination risks.
- The new law, signed by Governor Kim Reynolds, removes 'gender identity' as a protected class under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, which had included these protections since 2007.
- The legislation redefines 'sex' as strictly biological, impacting protections in housing, education, employment, and public accommodations for transgender individuals.
- Supporters of the law argue it safeguards women’s rights, while critics warn it will expose transgender Iowans to heightened discrimination and legal vulnerabilities.
- The bill passed swiftly through Iowa's Republican-controlled legislature, with votes of 33-15 in the Senate and 60-36 in the House.
- Advocacy groups and civil rights organizations, including the ACLU of Iowa, have condemned the law, pledging continued efforts to defend transgender rights.
UPI 
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