Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) has introduced the “Protecting Women’s Private Spaces Act,” a bill designed to ensure that single-sex facilities on all federal property are designated based on biological sex. This legislation builds upon Mace’s previous resolution to restrict bathroom and locker room access in the U.S. Capitol, aiming to establish similar guidelines nationwide.
Details of the Proposed Legislation
The bill would apply to federal buildings, military installations, and other federally controlled properties, mandating that bathrooms, locker rooms, and other single-sex facilities be used exclusively by individuals whose biological sex aligns with the designation of the space. Mace has emphasized that the measure is intended to safeguard the privacy and safety of women and girls, particularly in sensitive areas like restrooms and changing rooms.
“This is about protecting women’s right to privacy and ensuring safe spaces,” Mace stated. “Federal facilities should uphold standards that respect biological differences and prioritize the safety of everyone who uses these spaces.”
Support for Women’s Privacy and Safety
Supporters of the legislation argue that it is a necessary step to protect women from potential risks associated with allowing biological males into female-designated spaces. Advocates point to instances where policies permitting gender self-identification have led to controversies or safety concerns in schools, gyms, and public facilities.
“This is not about discrimination,” Mace said. “It’s about common-sense rules that have been in place for decades, ensuring privacy and security for women and girls.”
Opposition and Broader Implications
While Mace’s bill has gained support among conservatives, it has sparked criticism from opponents who view the measure as exclusionary. They argue that the bill does not accommodate transgender individuals who identify as female, creating additional hurdles for them in accessing facilities aligned with their gender identity. Mace has countered these claims, emphasizing that the bill is focused solely on maintaining privacy and safety within federally controlled spaces.
Expanding the Debate to Federal Property
The legislation represents a significant expansion of the ongoing debate over bathroom access and gender identity, as it seeks to apply these standards across all federal properties. The issue has already gained national attention with similar measures being discussed in state legislatures and other jurisdictions.
Mace’s approach to addressing this topic reflects a broader push among conservatives to reinforce traditional definitions of gender in public policy. Her previous resolution regarding the U.S. Capitol was one of the first to establish such guidelines within a federal setting, and this new bill seeks to codify those principles on a larger scale.
What Comes Next
As Mace’s bill progresses through Congress, it is expected to reignite debates over the balance between privacy, safety, and inclusivity in public spaces. For now, Mace has made it clear that her focus remains on protecting women and girls in federally controlled spaces, ensuring that their privacy and security are prioritized in federal policy.
EXCLUSIVE: @RepNancyMace announces a new bill to protect women on ALL federal property from men who seek to invade female spaces. pic.twitter.com/ZLkWTVfO2m
— Michael Knowles (@michaeljknowles) November 20, 2024