Federal Judge Blocks Idaho’s Restrictive Bathroom Law

Idaho’s attempt to enforce a law criminalizing the use of certain restrooms based on birth sex has been halted by a federal judge. The ruling temporarily protects transgender residents who could have faced significant penalties under the law.

The controversial measure, slated for July 1, promised penalties of up to five years in prison for transgender people using restrooms aligning with their gender identity. Six transgender residents of Idaho challenged the law, highlighting that it infringes upon constitutional rights regarding equal protection and privacy.

Judge Amanda K. Brailsford of the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho offered a key ruling. She did not address the claims about equal protection rights or privacy directly but focused on another legal argument. The judge indicated that the law’s vague language was problematic. It required law enforcement officers to make judgments about a person’s biological sex, leading to subjective enforcement.

Judge Brailsford’s preliminary injunction prevents part of the law’s implementation. Transgender individuals can continue using single-stall restrooms corresponding to their gender identity. There is also provision for using multi-user restrooms if single-user facilities are unavailable. The lawsuit remains limited since the plaintiffs are not disputing parts related to locker rooms and showers.