- Iowa Senate passes bill removing gender identity protections from civil rights law
- Legislation moves to House after 12-hour debate with 1,200+ protesters present
- Opponents warn of increased discrimination against LGBTQ+ residents in housing and jobs
- 63% of Iowans oppose the bill according to Des Moines Register poll
In a landmark decision that drew national attention, Iowa senators approved SF 2345 late Thursday night. The legislation would remove gender identityfrom protected classes under the state's civil rights code, marking the first such rollback in U.S. history. Legal experts warn this could create loopholes for discrimination in employment, education, and public accommodations.
During the marathon session, Democratic Senator Liz Bennett highlighted a regional case study: When Indiana weakened LGBTQ+ protections in 2015, the state lost $60 million in convention business. Iowa's economy can't afford that backlash.Meanwhile, bill sponsor Senator Jake Chapman argued the changes preserve biological reality in state law.
Three critical industry insights emerged from testimony:
- Healthcare providers reported a 40% increase in crisis calls from transgender youth since the bill's introduction
- HR professionals warned of compliance conflicts with federal EEOC guidelines
- Iowa's tech sector leaders expressed concerns about talent recruitment challenges
The proposed changes come as neighboring Minnesota expands transgender protections. Legal analysts note Iowa could face immediate lawsuits under Title IX if the bill passes. With House leadership scheduling hearings next week, activists plan statewide Equality Rideprotests targeting 15 county seats.