The measure, which received party-line Republican support and vocal opposition from Democrats and transgender Montanans throughout its lightning-fast path through the Legislature, is next expected to be transmitted to Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte’s desk. It would take effect immediately upon being signed into law.
Proponents touted the bill, House Bill 121, as a way to enforce the separation of men and women in public places and curb threats of harassment or assault from people of the opposite sex.
“This bill isn’t about exclusion — it’s about common-sense boundaries that ensure fairness and respect in vulnerable spaces like restrooms, locker rooms and correctional facilities,” said bill sponsor Rep. Kerri Seekins-Crowe, R-Billings, in a Tuesday comment to Montana Free Press. “Montanans deserve the peace of mind that their families are safe, and I look forward to Governor Gianforte signing HB 121 into law.”
A spokesperson for Gianforte said Tuesday that the governor welcomes legislation that “provides privacy and security to women and girls in private spaces” and that he will “carefully consider” any bill that comes to his desk. Lt. Gov. Kristin Juras consistently testified in favor of the bill during its committee hearings. ...
Rep. Kerri Seekins-Crowe, R-Billings, pictured in 2023, is the sponsor of a 2025 bill that seeks to create sex segregation in public bathrooms, locker rooms and sleeping areas according to a person’s chromosomes and reproductive biology. Credit: Mara Silvers / MTFP