Texas Town Bans Transgender People from Specific Bathrooms

There is one Texas town that is getting a whole bunch of attention after enacting a new measure that is being labeled as the most extreme ever by a local government. 

The information was shared by The Texas Tribune regarding Odessa, Texas banning transgender people from using restrooms that don’t match the sex they were assigned at birth. 

As you would expect this is getting a lot of attention in the Lone Star State. 

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How Did the Ruling Come Down? 

The Odessa City Council decided on Tuesday to create the ban after a heated exchange between locals and city leaders. The votes were tallied and after a 5 to 2 vote, the council decided to expand on the ordinance that began in 1989 prohibiting individuals from entering the bathroom of the opposite sex. The council was suggesting that this is all about protecting Odessa citizens and families. 

There were plenty of people who argued that the ban would create fear in the community and stretch city services even more. And saying that it creates an issue that has never been a problem. 

Punishment for Not Following This Ban 

If someone were to break the rules of this new ban it could result in a fine of up to $500 and trespassing charges. But there is more, an individual would now be able to sue and seek no less than $10,000 in damages plus lawsuit and attorney fees. 

This would apply to any building, or space controlled by the city of Odessa.  

One Exception to This New Ban 

This would not apply to parents of children of the opposite sex who are younger than 12 years old, maintenance or custodial workers, law enforcement, and medical professionals. 

What do you think about this new ban in Odessa?