Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) announced a new policy on Wednesday banning transgender women from using female restrooms in the Capitol.
Johnson released a statement saying that all single-sex facilities in the Capitol building could only used for “individuals of that biological sex.”
“All single-sex facilities in the Capitol and House Office Buildings — such as restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms — are reserved for individuals of that biological sex,” Johnson said. “It is important to note that each Member office has its own private restroom, and unisex restrooms are available throughout the Capitol.”
House rules gives the Speaker control of facilities in the chamber, so Johnson has the authority to issue the policy surrounding the use of bathrooms.
Asked how he plans to enforce the rule, Johnson told reporters: “Like all House policies, it’s enforceable. And we have single sex facilities for a reason, and women deserve women’s only spaces. And we are not anti-anyone and we are pro-woman.”
He added: “I think it is an important policy for us to continue. It’s always been an unwritten policy and now it is in writing.”
The latest attack on transgender rights at the Capitol comes as Delaware Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender lawmaker, is set to assume office in January.
Johnson’s statement comes days after Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has introduced a resolution preventing transgender women from using women’s restrooms on Capitol Hill.
Earlier this week, McBride slammed Mace’s resolution as an attempt by Republicans to distract voters from their lack of policies.
“This is a blatant attempt from far right-wing extremists to distract from the fact that they have no real solutions to what Americans are facing,” McBride said.
“We should be focused on bringing down the cost of housing, health care, and child care, not manufacturing culture wars,” she continued. “Delawareans sent me here to make the American dream more affordable and accessible and that’s what I’m focused on.”
In a statement Wednesday, McBride said she will follow the rules outlined by Johnson even though she disagrees.
“I am not here to fight about bathrooms. I’m here to fight for Delawareans and to bring down cost facing families,” McBride wrote. “Like all members I will follow the rules as outlined by speaker Johnson, even if I disagree with them.”
