New Texas law restricts transgender bathroom use in public areas tomorrow

EL PASO TX (KVIA)-A new Texas law taking effect Thursday will require people to use bathrooms in public buildings based on the sex listed on their original birth certificate. Senate Bill 8 applies to public schools, universities, city and county buildings, and state agencies. Private businesses are not included.

Reactions in El Paso are mixed as the deadline approaches.

A transgender woman who spoke with ABC-7 said the law brings new uncertainty to her daily routine.

“I feel a lot more anxious because now I don’t know who’s going to stop me from going into the women’s restroom, which I’ve thankfully had no problem with before,” she said.

She added that she feels she now has to take extra precautions.

“I feel like I always have to have someone with me when I go to the restroom… just to make sure that I’m not followed or harassed outside the bathroom or coming out of it.”

Support also exists among local leaders.

Michael Abood, chairman of the El Paso County Republican Party, said he agrees with the new requirements.

“It’s a shame we have to have that law, but I agree with it — because men shouldn’t be going into the bathroom with women,” Abood told ABC-7.

Under SB 8, enforcement falls on public institutions—not individuals.

According to the text of Senate Bill 8, public entities that fail to comply may face civil penalties of up to $25,000 for a first violation, with higher penalties possible for ongoing violations.

Transgender individuals or members of the public cannot be fined under the law.

The City of El Paso confirmed it will comply with SB 8. In a statement to ABC-7, officials said the city is reviewing its facilities and internal procedures to align with the law. The city added that it will continue following all federal and state anti-discrimination laws while final guidance for employees is finalized.

The law goes into effect statewide on Thursday.