DES MOINES, Iowa – A controversial bill that seeks to remove gender identity as a protected class from the Iowa Civil Rights Act has taken a major step forward. On Monday, February 24, 2025, House Republicans advanced House Study Bill (HSB) 242, moving it closer to a full House debate.

If passed, Iowa would become the first state in the nation to remove a protected class from a civil rights law, a decision that has sparked outrage and protests across the state.

Bill Moves Forward Despite Opposition

HSB 242 was discussed during a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing, where lawmakers heard testimony from both supporters and opponents. The hearing drew hundreds of LGBTQ+ advocates, many of whom passionately voiced their opposition to the bill. Protesters chanted “Trans rights are human rights!” inside the Iowa State Capitol, briefly disrupting the proceedings.

Despite the public outcry, the House Judiciary Committee voted along party lines, 13-8, to advance the bill. Notably, Rep. Brian Lohse, a Republican from Bondurant, broke ranks with his party and joined Democrats in opposing the bill.

The bill now heads to the full Iowa House for debate. If passed there, it would move on to the state Senate before reaching the desk of Governor Kim Reynolds for final approval.

What Does the Bill Do?

Currently, the Iowa Civil Rights Act protects individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations based on various characteristics, including race, sex, disability, religion, and gender identity.

HSB 242 would eliminate gender identity from this list, meaning that transgender Iowans could legally face discrimination in workplaces, housing applications, public restrooms, and other essential services.

Opponents argue that the bill would remove crucial legal protections and make Iowa a hostile place for transgender residents. Supporters, however, claim that the bill is necessary to clarify laws and prevent conflicts over gender identity in public spaces.

Supporters’ Argument: “Clarifying the Law”

Republican lawmakers and conservative advocacy groups argue that the bill restores fairness and clarity in Iowa’s civil rights laws.

Amber Williams, a lobbyist for Inspired Life, said the bill is meant to ensure “sex-based protections remain intact and cannot be overridden by fluid or subjective definitions of gender.”

Supporters claim that legal protections for gender identity have led to controversies over sex-segregated spaces, such as public restrooms and school locker rooms. They believe biological sex should determine legal protections, not gender identity.

Opposition: “A Step Backward for Civil Rights”

Civil rights groups and LGBTQ+ advocates argue that the bill is an attack on transgender rights and sets a dangerous precedent.

Becky Tayler, Executive Director of Iowa Safe Schools, called it a “dark day for all Iowans.” She warned that the bill “empowers individuals to discriminate against their fellow Iowans and sends the message that transgender residents aren’t welcome in their own state.”

During the subcommittee hearing, Mandi Remington, a county supervisor and activist in Johnson County, urged lawmakers to reject the bill, stating:

“This legislation tells transgender Iowans that they are not worthy of the same rights and protections as everyone else. It strips away their dignity and safety.”

Protests and Arrests at the Capitol

The debate over HSB 242 has fueled protests at the Iowa State Capitol, drawing activists from across the state. During Monday’s hearings, tensions escalated as demonstrators interrupted proceedings with chants of “Protect trans lives!”

Law enforcement officers arrested several protesters for refusing to leave the hearing room. Protest organizers say they will continue to fight the bill and mobilize against it as it moves forward in the legislative process.

What Happens Next?

With the committee’s approval, HSB 242 is now eligible for full debate in the Iowa House. If it passes the House, the bill will move on to the state Senate, where it could face additional amendments and discussions.

Governor Kim Reynolds has not yet publicly commented on whether she would sign the bill into law, but many believe she is likely to support it, given her past stance on similar issues.

Opponents, however, are determined to challenge the legislation. Advocacy groups are organizing rallies, urging lawmakers to reconsider their votes, and preparing legal challenges if the bill becomes law.

The outcome of this bill could have major implications for civil rights protections in Iowa and set a precedent for other states considering similar measures.