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Texas Bathroom Law Takes Effect, Limiting Public Facilities by Sex at Birth

Enforcement targets public institutions via attorney general investigations with steep fines.

Overview

  • The statute now in force restricts multi-stall restrooms and changing areas in public buildings to the sex recorded at birth.
  • Complaints go to the Texas attorney general, who can fine noncompliant institutions after a 15‑day window—$25,000 initially, then up to $125,000 per day.
  • Universities are implementing divergent steps: UT San Antonio moved 30 students, UT Austin issued an interim policy, Austin Community College is changing signage, and Texas State reports no significant changes.
  • SB 8 requires entities to take “every reasonable step” without defining it, prompting warnings from advocates and legal experts about inconsistent or intrusive enforcement.
  • The law excludes private institutions and single-user restrooms and includes exceptions for children under 10 with an adult, emergencies, law enforcement and custodial access, and assistance for those who need help.