South Carolina Bathroom Bill Advances, Threatening 25% Funding Cut for Non‑Compliant Schools

A South Carolina bill dictating public restroom use based on birth-certificate gender passed both legislative chambers this week. Non-compliant schools face a 25% state funding cut.

South Carolina lawmakers have advanced a bill regulating restroom use in public educational institutions. This week, the state Senate and House both passed the measure, sending it to the governor's desk.

The bill requires transgender individuals to use restrooms corresponding to their birth-certificate gender, not their lived gender. It also mandates that every public school, college, and university in the state provide a single-user restroom, changing room, or similar accommodation.

Non-compliance with these new regulations carries significant financial consequences. Educational institutions failing to adhere to the bill's provisions could lose 25% of their state funding. Proponents assert the bill aims to protect the privacy and rights of all students. Critics argue the legislation specifically targets transgender individuals and could lead to harassment.

The governor's decision will determine the bill's future implementation and its full impact across South Carolina's public education system.