FALSE
Fact: Research has not found evidence that policies allowing transgender people to use restrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity increase assaults or threats to public safety. In contrast, transgender people—especially transgender youth—report experiencing harassment, intimidation, and even physical assault in these spaces at far higher rates than the general population.
Only a small percentage of adolescents identify as transgender, and transgender girls represent only a fraction of that already small group. Intersex people—those born with natural variations in sex characteristics—are estimated to comprise about 1.7% of the population, illustrating that human biology is more complex than a simple binary.
From a practical standpoint, enforcing restrictions on restrooms and locker rooms raises difficult questions. Public schools, universities, and businesses do not—and generally cannot—verify a person's anatomy before allowing access to these facilities, nor would most people want such an intrusive system. In everyday life, people simply use the facilities that correspond with who they are.
Schools have long provided private changing areas or stalls for any student who desires additional privacy, regardless of the reason. Protecting privacy and respecting every student's dignity are compatible goals.
Adolescence is challenging for all young people. For transgender youth, the added fear of bullying or being singled out can make an already difficult time even harder. Schools have a responsibility to protect the privacy, dignity, and safety of all students.
The League of Women Voters has long supported public policies grounded in evidence rather than fear. Available research has not shown that inclusive restroom and locker room policies create the harms that are often predicted. Thoughtful public policy respects individual dignity, relies on facts, and seeks practical solutions that protect everyone.