Iowa Removes Transgender Protections from State Civil Rights Code

Governor Kim Reynolds signs legislation making Iowa the first state to revoke previously granted civil rights protections for transgender individuals.

The new law removes 'gender identity' as a protected category under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, ending protections in areas like employment, housing, and education for transgender individuals.
Governor Kim Reynolds defended the legislation, claiming it safeguards women's rights and aligns Iowa with federal civil rights definitions.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers and LGBTQ+ advocates, argue the law stigmatizes transgender people and enables discrimination in public and private spheres.
Thousands protested at the Iowa State Capitol, with opponents describing the law as a significant step back for civil rights in the state.
The legislation, passed along party lines, also restricts changes to birth certificate sex markers and will take effect on July 1, 2025.