The Missouri Senate Education Committee heard testimony this week on a bill that would shield private schools from being sued for requiring single-sex bathrooms and changing rooms.
The bill sponsor, State Sen. Mike Henderson, R-Desloge, said it would give schools legal protection when bathroom use is based on the sex listed on a student’s birth certificate.
“Under this bill, a private school could not be sued solely for maintaining this type of bathroom policy with exceptions listed in the bill,” said Henderson.
The bill would bar local governments from requiring private schools to alter bathroom policies and make them liable for legal costs if they do.
Samantha Jones, who described herself as an intersex, non-binary Missourian, testified in opposition.
“In Missouri, there is not a designation on a birth certificate for an intersex person,” said Jones. “It is only male or female and expecting private school students to carry their birth certificate with them to school is ridiculous.”
Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, D-Clay County, sits on the committee.
“I can say for the last six years, working in the education committees, both in the House and the Senate, I am sick and tired of talking about bathrooms, and I wish we could spend a heck of a lot more time talking about classrooms,” said Nurrenbern.
During the hearing, the bill drew support from three witnesses and opposition from seven. The legislation now awaits a Senate Education Committee vote.
https://www.senate.mo.gov/BillTracking/Bills/Billinformation?year=2026&billid=872603
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