BOISE, IDAHO – The Idaho Family Policy Center, a pro-family Christian ministry, celebrates the passage of House Bill 607 by the House State Affairs Committee earlier today.
The new legislation – which was drafted by Idaho Family Policy Center and is sponsored by Rep. Ted Hill (R-Eagle) and Rep. Barbara Ehardt (R-Idaho Falls) – will build on the progress made in recent years toward protecting the privacy and safety of girls in restrooms and changing areas:
- Our school bathroom legislation (Senate Bill 1100) – which was researched and drafted by IFPC and sponsored by Rep. Ted Hill and Sen. Ben Adams (R-Nampa) – became law two years ago. It requires public schools to maintain separate bathrooms, locker rooms, showers, and changing areas for biological boys and biological girls.
- And just last session, Rep. Barbara Ehardt sponsored House Bill 264, which protects the privacy and safety of girls in public university buildings, state correctional facilities, and domestic violence shelters. The IFPC policy team worked closely with Rep. Ehardt, helping to draft portions of the bill and supporting it throughout the legislative process.
The legislation follows reports that a female lifeguard at the Litehouse YMCA in Sandpoint encountered a biological man in the women’s locker room last October—allegedly using the shower and getting dressed in an area frequently used by girls of all ages.
According to statewide public opinion polling commissioned by Idaho Family Policy Center, more than 77% of likely Idaho voters believe state law should require separate restrooms and changing facilities in public buildings.
The Idaho House State Affairs Committee voted to send House Bill 607 to the House floor with a “do pass” recommendation earlier today. The full House will soon consider this legislation.
A statement from Blaine Conzatti, President of Idaho Family Policy Center:
What happened in the Sandpoint YMCA locker room isn’t surprising—in fact, it’s to be expected. Most people are shocked to learn that current state law allows biological men to use restrooms designated for girls in some public buildings.
Over the last few years, Idaho Family Policy Center has made significant progress toward protecting the privacy and safety of girls in vulnerable places.
Now we’re ready to finish the work of protecting every woman in all public buildings—ensuring that they never feel unsafe as a result of biological men invading their restrooms and locker rooms.
About Idaho Family Policy Center
Idaho Family Policy Center is a ministry that advances the lordship of Christ in the public square through engaging the church, promoting God-honoring public policy, and training statesmen. Visit IFPC's website at https://idahofamily.org/
