Texas House Bill HB1747

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of entry of a person into a public restroom designated for the opposite sex as disorderly conduct.

Impact

If enacted, HB1747 would specifically amend Section 42.01 of the Texas Penal Code. It seeks to define what constitutes an offense under disorderly conduct with respect to restroom access, explicitly detailing circumstances and providing defenses for certain individuals, such as parents accompanying children. This legislative measure intends to formalize expectations around restroom usage in the context of gender identity and may likely influence local law enforcement practices pertaining to restroom access.

Summary

House Bill 1747 proposes amendments to the Texas Penal Code regarding the prosecution of individuals entering public restrooms designated for the opposite sex. This bill classifies such action as disorderly conduct, thus allowing law enforcement to intervene based on the defined criteria. The proposal relies on the sex designation as listed on a person’s driver’s license or state-issued identification, placing an official legal framework around restroom usage considerations in public spaces.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB1747 highlights notable societal divisions. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for protecting public decency and ensuring privacy in facilities designed for specific genders. Opponents, on the other hand, criticize the bill for potentially infringing on the rights of transgender individuals and non-binary persons, raising concerns about discrimination and fear of prosecution based on gender identity. The debate reflects ongoing tensions in legislating personal identities and the implications of such laws on community safety and rights.