Iowa Becomes First to Remove Gender Identity Protections.

Iowa Removes Gender Identity Protections in Landmark Vote

In a historic and controversial decision, Iowa lawmakers on Thursday became the first in the U.S. to approve a bill removing gender identity protections from the state's civil rights code. The legislation has sparked massive protests, with critics arguing that it will expose transgender people to discrimination in crucial areas like housing, employment, and public accommodations.

Protests Erupt at Iowa State Capitol

On February 27, 2025, the Iowa State Capitol was flooded with LGBTQ+ advocates, who gathered in force to voice their opposition. Signs reading “Trans rights are human rights” filled the Capitol rotunda, and chants of “No hate in our state!” reverberated through the halls.

At the same time, the legislature moved quickly, passing the bill along party lines.

The state Senate voted first, followed by the House less than an hour later. Five House Republicans joined all Democrats in voting against the bill, showing some division within the GOP.

The Controversial Bill: What’s at Stake?

The bill, which now heads to Republican Governor Kim Reynolds for approval, would explicitly remove gender identity as a protected class under Iowa’s civil rights law. It also defines “female” and “male” based on biological sex, and states that "gender" refers to sex alone—not gender identity, expression, or role.

This action marks the first time in U.S. history that a state has moved to remove gender identity from its civil rights code, making it a significant shift in the national conversation about transgender rights. If signed into law, the bill would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Governor Reynolds’ Track Record

Governor Reynolds has previously signed policies restricting transgender students' participation in sports and access to public bathrooms. While her spokesperson declined to comment on whether she will sign this new bill, her record suggests it’s likely she will support the measure.

Personal Testimonies and Emotional Reactions

During the heated debate, Rep. Aime Wichtendahl, D-Hiawatha, the last Democrat to speak, became emotional as she shared her personal story as a transgender woman. “I transitioned to save my life,” Wichtendahl said, adding that bills like this one aim to erase the existence of transgender people from public life.

Her sentiments were echoed by protesters, who shouted “Shame!” from the House gallery as the bill passed. Many LGBTQ+ advocates view this move as part of a broader effort to marginalize transgender individuals.

Supporters Argue for "Common Sense" Laws

Supporters of the bill, such as Rep. Steven Holt, R-Denison, argue that the inclusion of gender identity in civil rights protections has led to transgender women accessing spaces such as bathrooms and sports teams that should be reserved for those assigned female at birth.

Holt emphasized that removing gender identity protections would protect “commonsense” policies like the ban on transgender students in girls’ sports.

“The legislature of Iowa for the future of our children and our culture has a vested interest and solemn responsibility to stand up for immutable truth,” Holt stated during the debate.

The Historical Context of Iowa’s Civil Rights Law

Iowa's civil rights law, first enacted in 1965, initially excluded sexual orientation and gender identity from its protections. These protections were added in 2007, thanks to bipartisan support in the Legislature, but this bill now seeks to remove those protections specifically for gender identity.

National Implications and Backlash

Iowa's actions are part of a larger trend in conservative-led states, with several Republican-controlled legislatures proposing similar measures. The bill has received national attention, including support from former President Donald Trump, who on Thursday urged Iowa lawmakers to “pass this bill – AS FAST AS POSSIBLE” in a post on his Truth Social site.

Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups like the Movement Advancement Project are calling attention to the broader impact of such laws, especially in states where gender identity protections still exist.

Logan Casey, the director of policy research at the think tank, noted that Iowa's decision is the first of its kind and could inspire similar efforts nationwide.

Legal and Social Consequences

Iowa’s Supreme Court has previously ruled that discrimination based on sex does not include discrimination based on gender identity. This latest legislative move could have a lasting effect on the lives of transgender Iowans, limiting access to public services, education, and even employment opportunities.

Additionally, the bill raises questions about what other protections may be at risk for LGBTQ+ individuals, especially transgender people, in other states across the country. Some states have already seen legal challenges to transgender rights policies, and the national debate over gender identity protections remains contentious.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Iowa’s LGBTQ+ Community?

With this bill now headed to the governor’s desk, the fight over gender identity protections in Iowa is far from over. LGBTQ+ advocates are planning to continue their protests and legal challenges, while supporters of the bill are celebrating what they consider a victory for “traditional values.”

As the debate moves forward, all eyes will be on Iowa’s next steps, and whether other states follow suit.

If signed into law, this decision will mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights across the United States.

Keenan Crow, the director of policy and advocacy at the LGBTQ+ advocacy group One Iowa, stated that the organization is still reviewing the the text of the bill. He noted that its lack of clarity makes it difficult to determine how it will be enforced. "We will pursue any legal options available to us." Crow added.

Iowa’s vote to remove gender identity protections from its civil rights code has set the stage for a heated national debate. While opponents argue the bill would increase discrimination against transgender people, supporters see it as a victory for preserving traditional values.

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