On November 18, 2024, Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced a resolution to restrict access to single-sex facilities in the U.S. Capitol based on biological sex. The proposal mandates that House members and staff use restrooms, locker rooms, and changing areas corresponding to their biological sex, with enforcement by the House sergeant-at-arms.
This legislative move follows the election of Sarah McBride (D-DE), the first openly transgender individual elected to Congress. Mace emphasized the importance of protecting women’s private spaces, stating, “Biological men do not belong in private women’s spaces. Period. Full stop. End of story.”
McBride responded by urging Congress to focus on pressing issues such as housing, healthcare, and childcare costs, rather than engaging in culture wars. She highlighted the need for respect and kindness among members of Congress in her tweet Monday night.
Mace, a self-identified feminist and survivor of abuse, cited her personal experiences to underscore the necessity of the resolution. She expressed concerns about the safety and dignity of women in private spaces, stating, “I’m absolutely 100% gonna stand in the way of any man who wants to be in a women’s restroom, in our locker rooms, in our changing rooms. I will be there fighting you every step of the way.”
Colleagues of Mace have come forward saying that the resolution is not enough. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) asserted that she would be willing to get physically involved should a biological male attempt to enter a restroom, locker room, or changing room designated for women.
The resolution is currently under consideration, with discussions about its inclusion in the House rules package for the upcoming session. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) indicated that the measure might be incorporated into the rules package to be voted on early next year.
