A state judge in Montana has temporarily blocked a new law that prevented transgender individuals from using bathrooms aligned with their gender identities. The law, signed by Governor Greg Gianforte, aimed to reaffirm traditional gender definitions and prevent transgender individuals from using facilities that do not align with their birth-assigned sex. However, District Court Judge Shane Vannatta issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the law, in response to a lawsuit filed by ACLU of Montana on behalf of transgender individuals. The lawsuit argued that the law was discriminatory and violated constitutional rights.
Transgender state Rep. Zoey Zephyr and activists celebrated the judge’s decision, which provided relief to transgender Montanans. Zephyr, who had faced opposition from Republicans in the past over restroom use, praised the ruling as a victory against discrimination. Governor Gianforte’s office criticized the TRO and reaffirmed their belief that transgender individuals should not use facilities based on gender identity.
The law, along with another bill restricting restroom use in public educational institutions, was signed by Gianforte last week. While the bathroom ban law has been temporarily blocked, the educational institution law remains in effect. Supporters of the blocked law argue that it protects privacy and safety for women and girls, while critics see it as discriminatory and unjust. The legal battle over transgender rights in Montana continues to unfold as activists and lawmakers clash over issues of equality and discrimination.
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