The Texas Women's Privacy Act, introduced as S.B. No. 8, establishes regulations regarding the designation and use of spaces based on biological sex, creating a new chapter in the Government Code, Chapter 3002. The bill defines key terms such as "male," "female," "multiple-occupancy private space," and "single-occupancy private space," and mandates that political subdivisions and state agencies designate multiple-occupancy private spaces for use exclusively by individuals of one sex. It also outlines exceptions for specific situations, including custodial or maintenance access, and provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities or young children.

To enforce these regulations, the bill imposes civil penalties for violations, with escalating fines for repeat offenses, and allows residents to file complaints with the attorney general, who is required to investigate. Individuals affected by violations can pursue private civil actions for declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as recover court costs. The bill also includes provisions regarding sovereign, governmental, and official immunity, granting the Fifteenth Court of Appeals exclusive jurisdiction over related appeals. Additionally, it introduces a fee-shifting provision for cases seeking declaratory or injunctive relief against the state or its subdivisions, and clarifies that courts cannot grant relief that would invalidate or restrain enforcement of the chapter. The provisions will apply only to causes of action accruing after the bill's effective date, which is set for 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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