Republican lawmakers in Iowa approved a bill Thursday that removes gender identity as a protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act. The legislation passed both the House and Senate in a rapid process that began earlier this week.
Bill Sparks Protests and Heated Debate
Before lawmakers voted, one of the largest protests in years took place inside the Iowa Statehouse. Opponents of the bill say it strips basic rights from transgender Iowans, making them more vulnerable to discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.
State Rep. Aime Wichtendahl (D-Hiawatha), Iowa’s first openly transgender lawmaker, spoke emotionally about her experience facing discrimination before these protections were enacted in 2007.
“This bill revokes protections to our jobs, our homes, and our ability to access credit,” Wichtendahl said. “In other words, it deprives us of our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.”
Supporters argue the measure is necessary to uphold laws passed by Republicans, such as restrictions on transgender athletes and limitations on gender-affirming care funded by taxpayers.
State Rep. Steve Holt (R-Denison), who authored the bill, said it ensures “common-sense policies” remain in place and prevents legal challenges that could overturn Republican-backed legislation.
“Current Iowa code with gender identity as a protected class stands in the way of Iowans trying to implement common-sense policies and exercise their rights,” Holt said.
Republicans Push for Fast-Track Approval
The bill moved quickly through the legislature:
- Monday: House Judiciary Committee passed the bill.
- Tuesday: Senate Judiciary Subcommittee approved it.
- Wednesday: Senate Judiciary Committee advanced it.
- Thursday: House and Senate passed the legislation, sending it to Gov. Kim Reynolds for final approval.
If signed into law, transgender Iowans will no longer be protected from discrimination under the state’s civil rights code.
Democrats warn that the change could lead to costly lawsuits and damage Iowa’s reputation.
“We are saying, ‘You are not welcome here,’” said Sen. Matt Blake (D-Urbandale). “That is what this bill says to every trans Iowan.”
Sen. Janice Weiner (D-Iowa City) added that removing protections could open the state to legal challenges.
“We are setting ourselves up to spend taxpayer dollars defending the indefensible,” she said.
Next Steps
Gov. Reynolds is expected to sign the bill, making Iowa one of 28 states without statewide civil rights protections for transgender people.
