The Women's Safety and Protection Act aims to enhance the safety and privacy of individuals in domestic violence shelters, public schools, and juvenile detention facilities by establishing single-sex spaces. The bill defines key terms such as "domestic violence shelter," "juvenile detention facility," and "multiple occupancy restroom or changing room." It mandates that these facilities designate sleeping quarters and restrooms for the exclusive use of females or males, while also providing reasonable accommodations for individuals who cannot use the designated areas for their sex. However, these accommodations must not allow access to spaces designated for the opposite sex when members of that sex are present.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes that state agencies cannot prohibit sex-based distinctions in facilities where biology, safety, or privacy are at stake. It outlines specific provisions for public schools, including requirements for overnight trips, and ensures that the legislation does not interfere with the rights of individuals protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The act is designed to prioritize the health, safety, and privacy of individuals in sensitive environments while maintaining necessary accommodations for those in need.