This bill amends existing law to allow for the classification of individuals based on biological sex in specific contexts, namely in multi-user lavatory facilities and athletic competitions where biological males may have a competitive advantage. The bill explicitly states that such classifications do not constitute unlawful discrimination, thereby establishing a legal framework that permits separation based on biological sex without violating anti-discrimination laws. The new language inserted into RSA 354-A:1 emphasizes the state's commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect while recognizing that there are limited circumstances where biological sex classifications are justified for privacy and safety reasons.

Additionally, the bill introduces new sections to RSA 354, defining "biological sex" as male and female and clarifying that no public or private entity is mandated to separate individuals based on biological sex, making such classification optional. The effective date of the act is set for 60 days after its passage. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the protection of individual rights with the state's interests in privacy and safety in specific settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 354-A:1
HB1217 text: 354-A:1