HOUSE DEMOCRATS News:SANTA FE ― The House of Representatives has passed a measure to establish gender-free restrooms for single-occupant restrooms in places of public accommodation.
House Bill 388/a, sponsored by Rep. Angelica Rubio (D-Las Cruces), will ensure that women, families, the LGBTQ+ community, and New Mexicans with disabilities feel safe when accessing the restroom.
According to a study by the Williams Institute Manager of Transgender Research, 70% of transgender and gender-nonconforming participants experienced problems, including violence and harassment, in gender-specific restrooms. Currently, there is no state law requiring gender-free restrooms in any public place. House Bill 388/a would require that single-occupant restrooms in public places have gender-free signage.
“New Mexicans deserve equitable access to safe, inclusive restrooms. This legislation will make a positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ New Mexicans that feel unsafe, families tending to young children, and those with disabilities,” Rep. Angelica Rubio said. “Today’s passage of this bill is a win for equality and inclusion, and for all New Mexicans that have ever felt unsafe in a public restroom.”
House Bill 388/a now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
