Montana House Judiciary hears hours of testimony on HB 121, a bill to restrict multi‑occupancy facilities by biological sex

The House Judiciary Committee heard more than three hours of testimony on House Bill 121 on the bill’s first public hearing day, with supporters arguing the bill will protect "privacy, safety and dignity" for women and children and opponents saying it would discriminate against transgender, intersex and gender‑nonconforming Montanans and impose steep costs on public agencies and shelters.

Sponsor Carrie Seacens Crowe, who represents House District 39 in Billings, told the committee the measure — described by proponents as the "Protect Women Act" — is intended to provide a clear definition of biological sex and "reasonable exceptions to accommodate emergencies, custodial services, and ADA related needs." She said the bill focuses on three priorities: privacy, safety and clarity.

"This legislation simply reaffirms those values," Crowe said in opening remarks. "It is grounded in respect for science, longstanding cultural norms and the voices of parents, students and community members across our state." (Representative Carrie Seacens Crowe)

The lieutenant governor offered the governor’s office’s support during proponent testimony. "The governor stands with the legislature in protecting women and children,"…