H.B. No. 1016 introduces a new policy for public schools in Texas regarding multi-occupancy bathrooms and changing facilities. The bill defines "multi-occupancy bathroom or changing facility" as any space designed for use by more than one person at a time, where individuals may be undressed in the presence of others, including restrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, and shower rooms. School districts are required to adopt policies that ensure the health, safety, and welfare of students, maintain the confidentiality of educational information, and protect the privacy interests of students and their parents.
If a school district chooses to separate multi-occupancy facilities based on criteria other than biological sex assigned at birth, the policy must include specific descriptions of the facilities, supervision methods to ensure safety and privacy, and accommodations for students preferring facilities separated by biological sex. Additionally, the policy must be publicly posted on the district's website and mailed to parents at the start of each school year. The bill is set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, with provisions for immediate effect if passed by a two-thirds majority.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()