On October 3, 2006, the DC Human Rights Commission distributed new rules and regulations which implement a Human Rights Act amendment that provides protection to transgender individuals from discrimination. The rules, effective on October 27, 2006, are known as the “Compliance Rules and Regulation Regarding Gender Identity or Expression.” Specifically, the regulations provide guidance to employers, housing, and commercial space providers, public accommodations, educational institutions, and the DC government on the requirements of the law. The regulations ensure that transgender individuals are treated in a manner that is consistent with their identity or expression, rather than according to their presumed or assigned sex or gender. As an example, the regulations direct entities to allow transgender individuals the right to use restrooms, dressing rooms, and other facilities that are consistent with their gender identity or expression.
The District of Columbia joins approximately 65 other jurisdictions in extending protection from discrimination to transgender individuals. For further information regarding these regulations, you may contact the DC Human Rights Commission at (202) 727-0656. Select the link below to view the regulations.