Federal Judge Blocks Idaho’s Criminal Transgender Bathroom Ban
On June 16, 2026, a federal judge issued an injunction blocking Idaho’s transgender bathroom law.
Why it matters: This injunction clarifies compliance for employers and public accommodations, shaping civil rights litigation strategies on transgender protections.
- On June 16, 2026, U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill enjoined Idaho House Bill 752, which criminalized transgender bathroom use in public.
- H.B. 752 imposed prison terms: up to one year for a first offense, five years for repeats within five years.
- The law applied to restrooms in government buildings and private businesses like hospitals, malls, and airports.
- Six transgender Idaho residents, supported by ACLU and Lambda Legal, challenged the law as unconstitutional due to violations of due process, equal protection, and privacy rights.
On June 16, 2026, U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill issued a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of Idaho’s House Bill 752. The law criminalized individuals for using restrooms inconsistent with their birth certificate sex, with penalties up to one year in prison for a first offense and five years for repeat offenses within five years. Court documents detail the legal basis for the injunction.
H.B. 752 applied to public restrooms in government buildings and private businesses open to the public, such as hospitals, malls, airports, libraries, and restaurants.
Six transgender Idaho residents filed suit, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), ACLU of Idaho, and Lambda Legal. They argued the law violated constitutional protections including due process, equal protection, and privacy rights. See ACLU's complaint filing for details.
Emily Croston of the ACLU stated, "Forcing transgender individuals to face criminal penalties for using restrooms consistent with their gender identity denies them basic rights and public participation."
This injunction follows federal court decisions halting similar Idaho laws restricting transgender student athletes and gender-affirming Medicaid coverage, signaling increased judicial scrutiny of transgender rights restrictions, reported independently by Reuters.
For legal professionals, the ruling updates compliance risks for employers and public entities, particularly regarding civil rights and constitutional law in public accommodations and employment contexts. It also informs defense and challenge strategies for similar laws nationwide.
By the numbers:
- June 16, 2026 — Date of federal injunction blocking Idaho H.B. 752
- 1 year — Maximum prison term for first offense under H.B. 752
- 5 years — Maximum prison term for repeat offenses within five years
Yes, but: While the injunction blocks enforcement pending litigation, the law is not permanently struck down; ongoing proceedings could alter its status.
What's next: The court will hold hearings to decide on a permanent injunction; litigation on constitutional issues is expected to continue through 2027.