Iowa Lawmakers Vote to Remove Gender Identity from State Civil Rights Protections

The legislation, now awaiting the governor's decision, would strip anti-discrimination protections for transgender Iowans in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

The Iowa House and Senate passed Senate File 418, which removes 'gender identity' as a protected category under the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
The bill also prohibits transgender individuals from changing the sex designation on their birth certificates after medical transition.
Proponents argue the measure aligns Iowa law with other states and protects recent laws on transgender sports and bathroom access from legal challenges.
Opponents, including LGBTQ advocates and religious leaders, warn the bill will lead to increased discrimination and legal challenges under federal and constitutional protections.
Hundreds of protesters gathered at the Iowa State Capitol, with some removed from chamber galleries for disruptions, as the bill awaits Governor Kim Reynolds' decision.