HUD Rolls Back Obama-Era Rule on Gender Identity Protections in Housing Programs

New HUD Secretary Scott Turner halts enforcement of the Equal Access Rule, aligning with Trump's executive order defining gender by biological sex.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner announced the suspension of enforcement for the 2016 Equal Access Rule, which previously mandated housing protections based on self-identified gender identity.
The rollback redefines gender protections in HUD-funded programs to align with biological sex, as directed by President Trump's January 20 executive order.
Turner emphasized the decision aims to protect women in federally funded shelters, particularly those fleeing domestic violence, by ensuring spaces are reserved based on biological sex.
The Equal Access Rule initially sought to prevent discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in housing programs but will no longer apply to gender identity.
This move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to eliminate policies tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across federal agencies.