Manweller calls for Human Rights Commission transgender restroom and locker room rule to be repealed

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 8, 2016

CONTACT: Kurt Hammond, Senior Information Officer - (360) 786-7794

 Manweller calls for Human Rights Commission transgender restroom and locker room rule to be repealed

A recent ruling by the Washington State Human Rights Commission allowing people to use restrooms and locker rooms based on gender "identity" and not anatomy has some lawmakers in Olympia fuming, including Rep. Matt Manweller, R-Ellensburg.

"It isn't out of the ordinary to come across rules and regulations in Olympia that lack common sense and go too far, but a rule telling private businesses they have to let men in women's bathrooms is the epitome of government overreach and a cry for state agency oversight," said Manweller.

The commission ruling in December allows individuals the use of gender-segregated facilities, such as restrooms, locker rooms and dressing rooms that are consistent with that individual's "gender expression" or "gender identity."

"That means if a man 'identifies' as a woman, he is allowed to use the women’s restroom or locker room. Do parents want boys in the girl's locker room at Moses Lake or Ellensburg High School? Gender sensitivity is one thing, but to allow boys and girls access to each other’s locker room is inane.

"That's what happens when you have an unelected commission, all appointed by one political party, mostly from the greater Seattle area, making public policy for the rest of the state. This rule does not reflect the views of my district. I have heard numerous concerns about privacy and public safety," said Manweller.

Manweller is working with a group of legislators to repeal the rule through the legislative process.

"We hope common sense will prevail and legislators from both sides of the aisle will join us and undo this impractical rule. Let's be clear. This is not a civil rights issue. This is the radical agenda of a very small minority."

The Legislature convenes on Monday, Jan. 11.

For more information about Rep. Manweller, visit: www.representativemattmanweller.com.

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