GOP lawmakers propose gender restrictions in schools

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Two Republican legislators are proposing a law that would bar transgender students from using the locker room or bathroom assigned to the gender with which they identify.

Rep. Jesse Kremer and Sen. Steve Nass want to require school boards to designate bathrooms and locker rooms as exclusive to one gender. They also want the state Department of Justice to defend school districts in lawsuits that challenge the requirements.

An analysis of the bill from the Legislative Reference Bureau defines gender as the "physical condition of being male or female."

Kremer tells the State Journal the legislation is aimed at providing safety and privacy to students who use the restrooms and locker rooms.