UM, Missoula Co. Clarify HB 121 Bathroom Law Impact" Discover how the University of Montana and Missoula County are adapting to HB 121's bathroom

# **HB 121 Sparks Debate: Missoula County and University of Montana Weigh In on Bathroom Law Changes**

**Breaking Now News –** A controversial new law in Montana has ignited fierce discussions over privacy, safety, and civil rights. **House Bill 121**, which restricts bathroom access in public schools and government buildings based on biological sex, is now under scrutiny as **Missoula County and the University of Montana (UM)** share their perspectives on its implications.

## **What Does HB 121 Actually Do?**

Signed into law earlier this year, **HB 121 enforces the following:**

- **Requires public schools and government buildings to designate bathrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities exclusively for males or females based on biological sex.**
- **Prohibits transgender individuals from using facilities that align with their gender identity.**
- **Allows for civil lawsuits against institutions that do not comply.**

Supporters argue the law **protects women's and girls' privacy**, while critics claim it **discriminates against transgender and non-binary individuals.**

## **Missoula County Officials Issue Warnings**

**Missoula County Commissioners have expressed concerns**, warning that the law could:

- **Increase harassment and bullying** against transgender students.
- **Create legal liabilities** for schools and government offices.
- **Damage Montana’s reputation** as an inclusive state.

One commissioner stated, *"This law doesn’t solve a problem—it creates one. We should focus on safety for all students, not exclusion."*

## **University of Montana’s Response**

UM, a major institution in the state, **has not yet announced policy changes but signaled potential conflicts with federal Title IX protections**, which prohibit sex-based discrimination in education.

Key concerns include:

- **Funding risks:** Violations of Title IX could lead to loss of federal funding.
- **Student safety:** Transgender students may face increased anxiety and discrimination.
- **Legal battles:** Schools could face lawsuits from both sides—either for enforcing HB 121 or ignoring it.

## **What’s Next for Montana?**

With HB 121 now in effect, legal challenges are expected. Advocacy groups are preparing lawsuits, while lawmakers defend the measure as a **"common-sense safety policy."**

### **What Do You Think?**

- **Should bathrooms be segregated strictly by biological sex, or is gender identity more important?**
- **Does HB 121 protect women and girls, or does it unfairly target transgender individuals?**
- **Could this law harm Montana’s economy by deterring businesses and students?**
- **Should universities challenge state laws that conflict with federal protections?**

Debate is heating up—**share your thoughts in the comments!**

*(Breaking Now News – BNN)*