A new Tennessee law would force all businesses to publicly display a sign specifying if they encourage transgender customers to use the restroom of their choice. These mandatory signs could disrupt business and spark anti-trans harassment.
Unlike the North Carolina bill, Tennessee’s House Bill 1182 does not outright ban transgender people from using the appropriate bathroom. However, the mandatory labeling of transgender-friendly businesses can still pose risks. Businesses, churches, and health centers across the nation. In Tennessee, some business owners fear that posting the required signs advertising their bathroom policies could result in anti-trans graffiti or property damage.
In an interview with News Channel 5, the owners of Nashville’s Darkhorse Theater describe the bill as “mean-spirited”. “I’m not a doctor,” says co-owner Peter. “I don’t have the capacity to examine every one of our patrons and determine which bathroom they’re supposed to go to.” More importantly, transgender Tennesseans worry for their safety. Transgender customers may avoid using the restroom if they fear that other customers may question their gender. Alphonso David,“Denying transgender people the ability to access a bathroom consistent with their gender identity is degrading and dehumanizing — and can have real health and safety consequences.”
When a transgender person avoids using restrooms outside of their own home, they may hold their bladder for hours on end. Over time, holding one’s bladder can lead to severalReaders who are concerned about this issue may consider petitioning Governor Lee or other Tennessee legislators or supporting the following LGBT+ organizations: