Texas State Senate Bill 8
Summary
In August 2025, Senate Bill 8 was signed into law and pertains to individuals in certain spaces and facilities according to sex. The bill requires the university to take “every reasonable step” to ensure an individual, whose sex is opposite to the sex designated for a multiple-occupancy private space, does not enter the private space.
Exceptions to the law include:
- An individual entering a multiple-occupancy private space designated for the exclusive use of individuals of the sex opposite to the individual’s sex:
- For a custodial purpose;
- For a maintenance or inspection purpose;
- To render medical or other emergency assistance;
- To accompany and provide assistance to an individual who needs assistance in using the facility. For example, a caregiver assisting a disabled or elderly person.
- For a law enforcement purpose; or
- To render assistance necessary in preventing a serious threat to proper order or safety; or
- A child who is:
- Nine (9) years of age or younger entering a multiple-occupancy private space designated for the exclusive use of individuals of the sex opposite to the child’s sex; and
- accompanied by an individual caring for the child.
- Nine (9) years of age or younger entering a multiple-occupancy private space designated for the exclusive use of individuals of the sex opposite to the child’s sex; and
Frequently Asked Questions
When does SB 8 take effect?
December 4, 2025. Tarleton State is developing an official university rule in an effort to ensure ongoing compliance to SB 8. Once approved, additional communication will be emailed to the Tarleton State community.
How can I assist my child or relative if I cannot enter a facility designated for the opposite sex?
The law includes exceptions for children nine (9) and under and individuals with disabilities who are being assisted by family members.
How can I carry out my job if I cannot enter a facility designated for the opposite sex?
The law includes an exception for employees whose job duties require them to enter a restroom, locker room, changing room or shower room designated for the opposite biological sex.
How can I report a suspected violation of the law, discrimination and/or harassment if I experience it or witness it?
University employees who are made aware of a potential violation of this rule must submit a Tarleton Civil Rights reporting form within one business day. Non-employees may report potential violations of this rule by submitting a Tarleton Civil Rights reporting form or by email to civilrights@tarleton.edu.
Definitions Specified in the Legislation
- Male: Means an individual who naturally has or will have, or had or would have but for a congenital anomaly or an intentional disruption, a reproductive system designed to produce, transport, and utilize sperm for fertilization.
- Female: Means an individual who naturally has or will have, or had or would have but for a congenital anomaly or an intentional or unintentional disruption, a reproductive system designed to produce, transport, and provide eggs for fertilization.
- “Sex” means an individual ’s biological sex, either male or female.
- Multi-occupancy private space means a facility designed or designated for simultaneous use by more than one individual and in which an individual may be in a state of undress in the presence of another individual, regardless of whether the facility provides curtains or partial walls for privacy. The term includes a restroom, locker room, changing room, or shower room. Specifically excluded are single-occupancy facilities or “family facilities,” which are restrooms or shower rooms that have only one toilet or shower.
- “Single-occupancy private space” means a facility designed or designated for use by only one individual at a time and in which the individual may be in a state of undress. The term includes: (A) a single toilet restroom with a locking door that is designed or designated as unisex or for use based on sex; and (B) sleeping quarters designed or designated for use by one individual.