Summary

Iowa has become the first state to remove gender identity from its civil rights code, ending protections for transgender and nonbinary residents in housing, education, and employment.

Gov. Kim Reynolds signed the bill despite protests and warnings about increased discrimination. The law reverses nearly two decades of protections, undermining past legal victories for transgender rights.

The bill aligns with Trump-era policies redefining sex and restricting transgender rights. Advocates condemned the move, calling it a step backward for civil rights.