By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
The Bossier Parish Police Jury voted unanimously Wednesday, Sept. 2, to keep in place an ordinance governing the designation and use of restrooms, changing rooms and similar facilities in parish-owned buildings.
The ordinance, titled “Establishing the Designation and Use of Restrooms, Changing Rooms, and Similar Facilities in Buildings Owned or Operated by the Bossier Parish Police Jury,” amends Chapter 78 of the Bossier Parish Code of Ordinances.
The ordinance requires people using designated male or female restrooms and similar facilities in parish-owned buildings to use facilities corresponding with their biological sex.
The issue was previously discussed by the Police Jury. During its regular meeting Aug. 5, the Police Jury voted unanimously to schedule the Sept. 2 public hearing after concerns were raised regarding the public notice provided for the original vote.
The full Police Jury voted unanimously July 15 to advance the ordinance.
The ordinance drew public interest during the process. Nearly 300 people signed a letter opposing the measure, which was presented to the Police Jury. Speakers also addressed the ordinance during Police Jury meetings.
The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office has expressed support for the ordinance during Police Jury discussions. Comments made during the Building and Grounds Committee meeting indicated the Sheriff’s Office supports the rule in connection with law enforcement and public safety situations.
The ordinance adopts definitions from Louisiana’s Women’s Safety and Protection Act, passed in 2024. The state law defines biological sex based on an individual’s reproductive system and biology as observed or clinically verified at birth.
The ordinance establishes penalties for violations. A first offense carries a fine of up to $250. A second offense can result in a fine of up to $500 and up to 30 days in jail. A third or subsequent offense can result in a fine of up to $500 and up to six months in jail.
The ordinance applies to parish-owned or parish-operated facilities, including offices, courthouse facilities, libraries, public works and maintenance buildings, recreation buildings and warehouses.
The new section is included in Chapter 78, “Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions,” of the Bossier Parish Code of Ordinances.
Following Wednesday’s public hearing, the Police Jury voted unanimously to keep the ordinance in place.