This blog is part of our 89th Legislative Session Recap series. Click here to learn more about how the bills passed this session will affect you & your community.
Official Bill Caption
Relating to the designation and use of certain spaces and facilities according to sex; authorizing a civil penalty and a private civil right of action.
What it Does
Senate Bill 8, passed during the second special session, requires state agencies and political subdivisions (cities, counties, school districts, etc.) to designate multiple-occupancy private spaces like locker rooms and bathrooms as being for either males or females. It directs them to “take every reasonable step” to ensure people only use the private space that corresponds with their sex as it is defined in the bill. There are some exceptions, such as for children 9 years of age and under, elderly people, or people with disabilities who may need assistance in those spaces. The requirement extends to correctional facilities and to adults in family violence shelters.
Any state agency or political subdivision that does not comply can be investigated by the Attorney General, sued, and fined $25,000 for the first violation and $125,000 for each additional violation. The law takes effect December 4, 2025.
Why it Matters
This cruel, unnecessary bill leaves transgender and intersex Texans vulnerable to repeated, invasive gender tests; harassment; humiliation; and even violence simply for trying to go about their daily lives. It puts a similar target on people who are not transgender but whose appearance doesn’t match traditional gender expectations.
The bill authors could not point to any harm done by allowing children and adults to use the bathroom or changing room that aligns with their gender identity. Instead of addressing actual problems to improve the lives of Texans, legislators who voted for SB 8 chose to stoke paranoia and fear of our transgender neighbors to score political points. Texans deserve safety and respect, not government overreach that strips away our dignity.
What’s Next
In 2026, TFN and our youth organizing arm, Texas Rising Action, will endorse candidates who fight for every Texan’s right to live authentically and with dignity — free from government overreach that targets transgender Texans.
Texas Freedom Network will continue to fight alongside LGBTQIA+ Texans and families until they are fairly represented in our state.
