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Bill

S 2116

An Act providing for gender-neutral bathrooms

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandates gender-neutral bathrooms in public buildings and schools to provide facility access for transgender, non-binary, and other individuals.

Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM in A-1 and virtual
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Bill Summary · S 2116

Legislative bill overview

S 2116 requires Massachusetts public buildings and schools to provide gender-neutral bathroom options alongside traditional gendered facilities. The bill aims to accommodate individuals who may be uncomfortable or unsafe using facilities designated by traditional gender categories, including transgender and non-binary people.

Why is this important

Access to appropriate bathroom facilities directly affects school attendance, workplace participation, and equal use of public spaces. This bill addresses a practical accommodation that some advocates argue is necessary for inclusion, while reflecting broader debate about facility design, privacy, and resource allocation in public institutions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: Retrofitting existing buildings with additional single-occupancy or multi-stall gender-neutral bathrooms requires capital investment; determining which facilities must comply and timeline affects budget impact
  • Privacy and safety concerns: Opponents raise questions about privacy standards and facility design, while supporters argue gender-neutral facilities can enhance safety for all users when properly designed
  • Scope of mandate: Unclear whether requirements apply to all public buildings, schools only, or facilities above certain size thresholds; this determines affected entities and compliance burden
  • Parental and community perspectives: Parents and community members disagree on whether this addresses genuine accessibility needs or represents overreach in bathroom policy decisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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