COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – Berkeley County schools would officially buck the Obama administration’s directive that transgender students be allowed to use the bathroom of their choice under local legislation approved in the Senate.
The measure sponsored by Sen. Larry Grooms says every multi-stall restroom and shower room in the district must be used according to a student’s gender at birth. Students who ask to use alternative facilities could be sent to an employee or unisex restroom.
The bill bypassed the committee process because it’s directed toward a single county. Democrats unsuccessfully challenged its local status, allowing it to pass Wednesday solely by the county’s two Republican senators.
Its chances in the House are far less certain, especially since just seven days remain in the legislative session.
Grooms limited the policy to next school year.
