SB 8 Compliance

SB 8 requires all Texas public institutions of higher education to provide restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities based on biological sex. 

Yes. TSTC remains committed to fostering a respectful culture and advancing our value of connection for belonging while abiding by all legal requirements. As such, TSTC will comply with SB 8 and continue to prioritize the safety and dignity of our students, employees, and community. TSTC will clearly identify restrooms and locker rooms according to biological sex with clear, unalterable signage.

Penalties for SB 8 violations apply to institutions, not individuals, with the institutions subject to potential fines and lawsuits. To comply with state law and demonstrate TSTC’s commitment to understanding, safety, and mutual respect, TSTC will use reasonable efforts to educate and inform students, employees, and visitors on the requirements of SB 8. 

Students and employees have NO obligation to report any incidents related to SB 8. Reporting is strictly voluntary. 

The law applies specifically to multiple-occupancy private spaces (restrooms or changing rooms with more than one stall/area tailored for simultaneous use). It does not restrict the use of single-occupancy private spaces, which remain open to anyone. 

Yes. SB 8 allows individuals to enter a multi-occupancy private space designated for the opposite biological sex in specific circumstances. The designation of a sex-specific multiple-occupancy private space does not apply to an individual entering the opposite-sex space for a custodial purpose, maintenance or inspection, medical or emergency assistance, assisting someone who needs help using the facility, law enforcement purposes, or preventing a serious threat to order or safety, nor does it apply to a child nine years of age or younger who is accompanied by a caregiver. See Government Code Sec. 3002.053 Exceptions. 

      We understand that this law may impact members of our community differently. We encourage anyone seeking additional privacy or comfort to use the single-occupancy private spaces located at various places throughout campus.

• Students may contact Student Development: https://www.tstc.edu/student-life/student-development/

• Employees may contact Human Resources CARES Team: hrservicecenter@tstc.edu 

      Note: The law imposes penalties on the institution for non-compliance, and we will . While we rely on community cooperation in following the law. However, harassment of any individual using facilities–whether or not the individual is using the compliant facility–will not be tolerated and violates our Student and Employee Code of Conduct.

You can view the full text of Texas Government Code, Chapter 3002,  on the Texas website here:  Government Code Sec. 3002.053 

     We recognize that changes in legislation can cause concern. Support resources are available:

• Counseling Services: https://www.tstc.edu/student-life/student-services/mental-health-services/

• Student Development: https://www.tstc.edu/student-life/student-development/

• C.A.R.E. Team: https://www.tstc.edu/student-life/student-services/care-team/

• Human Resources CARES Team: hrservicecenter@tstc.edu