A federal judge has temporarily halted Idaho’s new law that criminalizes restroom use based on sex assigned at birth. The pause offers relief to transgender residents who faced up to five years in prison for using facilities matching their gender identity. This controversial law, set to begin on July 1, is deemed the most restrictive of its kind in the United States.
Six transgender individuals in Idaho challenged the law, arguing it infringes on constitutional rights by violating equal protection and privacy norms. Judge Amanda K. Brailsford of the U.S. District Court found it unnecessary to consider these claims. The plaintiffs were likely to succeed on their argument that the law is unconstitutionally vague.
In her ruling, Judge Brailsford highlighted concerns about the law’s reliance on subjective judgments, particularly regarding the determination of biological sex by law enforcement officers. It imposes criminal penalties, potentially reaching felony charges for repeated offenses, while leaving enforcement to individual discretion without clear guidelines.
While blocking enforcement of this aspect of the law, the judge’s decision allows transgender individuals to use single-stall facilities or multi-user restrooms if single-user facilities are unavailable. The ruling does not challenge sections of the law related to locker rooms and showers.
Judge Brailsford, appointed by former President Joe Biden, continues to oversee the case as it progresses through the legal system.