The Texas Women's Privacy Act introduces regulations concerning the designation and use of spaces based on biological sex, establishing Chapter 3002 in the Government Code. The bill defines key terms such as "male," "female," "multiple-occupancy private space," and "single-occupancy private space." It requires political subdivisions and state agencies to designate multiple-occupancy private spaces for exclusive use by individuals of one sex, while also outlining exceptions for specific situations like custodial duties. Notably, family violence shelters for female victims are restricted to serving individuals identified as female. The bill also includes enforcement mechanisms, imposing civil penalties for violations and allowing residents to file complaints with the attorney general.
Furthermore, the bill details provisions regarding sovereign, governmental, and official immunity in civil actions, specifying the conditions under which these immunities apply. It grants the Fifteenth Court of Appeals exclusive jurisdiction over related appeals and asserts that the state, political subdivisions, and their officers have immunity against challenges to the chapter's validity. However, exceptions are made for federal law or waivers as per the chapter. Additionally, a fee-shifting provision is introduced, making parties seeking declaratory or injunctive relief liable for the prevailing party's costs and attorney's fees. The bill applies only to actions accruing after its effective date and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part is found invalid.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()