The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Oklahoma is appealing a federal judge’s dismissal of a lawsuit challenging a state law that requires students to use restrooms based on their biological sex.
ACLU Argues Discrimination:
- The ACLU says Senate Bill 615 (SB 615) discriminates against transgender and non-binary students by violating their right to equal protection under the Constitution.
- They argue it prioritizes the privacy of cisgender students over transgender students.
Lawsuit Dismissed by Judge:
- U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman dismissed the case, siding with the state’s argument that Title IX doesn’t cover gender identity.
- She expressed concern that allowing students to use restrooms based on gender identity could be a safety risk.
ACLU Says Law Harms Students:
- The ACLU says laws like SB 615 encourage bullying and put transgender students at risk, citing the recent suicide of a gender-expansive student.
Also read: Federal Judge Rejects Delay in Legal Battle Over Alabama’s Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
State Superintendent Defends Law:
- State Superintendent Ryan Walters, a vocal supporter of the law, says it protects female students and respects parents’ concerns.
- He argues against federal efforts to include gender identity protections in Title IX.
Appeal and Legal Landscape:
- The ACLU is appealing to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Similar bathroom bills in other states have been overturned.
- Recent federal rulings and Department of Education actions support transgender student rights.
Lawmakers Defend Bill’s Wording:
- A co-author of SB 615 says the bill’s language was carefully crafted to address student safety concerns.
