This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that clarifies the definitions of sex, male, and female in state law, while also providing protections for single-sex spaces. The article emphasizes the importance of reaffirming the traditional meanings of these terms, preserving women's restrooms and changing rooms, and ensuring privacy and safety from potential abuse or harassment. It outlines that the definitions of "woman," "man," "girl," and "boy" are based on biological sex, and it establishes that there are only two sexes, male and female, as observed at birth. The bill also includes provisions for reasonable accommodations for individuals who may not be able to use facilities designated for their sex.

Additionally, the bill mandates that public schools and state institutions designate restrooms and changing areas for the exclusive use of males and females, while also providing accommodations for individuals who cannot use these facilities. It emphasizes the need for accurate data collection based on sex to address sex-based differences and discrimination effectively. The bill includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the article is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still stand. Overall, the legislation seeks to reinforce the distinction between sexes in various public and private settings, particularly in relation to safety and privacy.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 5-32-1, 5-32-2, 5-32-3, 5-32-4, 5-32-5, 5-32-6, 5-32-7, 5-32-8, 5-32-9
Introduced Version: 5-32-1, 5-32-2, 5-32-3, 5-32-4, 5-32-5, 5-32-6, 5-32-7, 5-32-8