Full Breakdown
California Attorney General Bonta Joins Multi-State Challenge to Idaho Transgender Bathroom Law
8/7/2026, 8:08:14 AM
Core Legal Action
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has joined a coalition of 19 state attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting a federal lawsuit that contests Idaho’s House Bill 264. The Idaho law bars transgender students from using school restrooms and other sex-separated facilities that correspond with their gender identity. The brief urges the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho to block enforcement of the statute while the plaintiffs’ case proceeds.
Background and the Idaho Lawsuit
On July 25, 2025, two transgender college students filed a suit in the District of Idaho, alleging that HB 264 violates the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause as well as Titles VII and IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Idaho’s measure applies to public universities and community colleges. Several other states—including Utah, Florida and Kansas—have enacted comparable restrictions. California has required all public schools to permit students to use single-sex facilities consistent with their gender identity since 2014.
Official Statements & Responses
The coalition argues that Idaho’s statute is unconstitutional and endangers both transgender and gender-conforming students. “Idaho’s law is an unconstitutional threat to the safety and privacy of transgender and gender-conforming students,” — Attorney General Bonta, california attorney The brief cites research indicating that inclusive policies, such as California’s, protect transgender individuals without compromising the rights of other students. “Attorney General Bonta [is] standing up against this harmful law and reaffirming that every student deserves dignity, equal protection, and a safe learning environment,” — Assemblymember Chris Ward
What’s Next
The coalition’s brief specifically requests that the district court grant a preliminary injunction to halt enforcement of HB 264 while the litigation continues. No further court dates have been announced.
