Transgender Rights and Information Under Iowa Law Higlighted by ACLU-Iowa Feb 2022 Special to GoGuide Magazine
Des Moines - While there is still much work to be done, Iowa law protects the fundamental right of transgender people for respect, dignity, and equal treatment. Background Unlike some states, Iowa has protections for transgender people written into its law. Chapter 216 of the Iowa Code is known as the Iowa Civil Rights Act (ICRA) of 1965. ICRA provides protection against various forms of discrimination on the basis of specific individual traits or characteristics. Among other things, ICRA prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, which were added as protected characteristics in 2007. The Iowa Civil Rights Act (ICRA) defines “gender identity” as “a gender-related identity of a person, regardless of the person’s assigned sex at birth.” ICRA also established the Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), the state agency that receives and investigates complaints about ICRA violations. There may be local civil rights and human rights ordinances in your community that provide additional protections. Employment Potential employers may not ask about gender identity during interviews. If a dress code is gender-specific, you must be permitted to dress consistent with your gender identity. You should have access to workplace restrooms consistent with your gender identity. You are also protected against coworker harassment. Notify your employer in writing if this occurs. In addition to ICRA, workplace discrimination against transgender people may violate a federal law covering “sex” discrimination (Title VII). Employer-provided health insurance must not exclude coverage for medically necessary gender-affirming surgery. Know your rights: Education, Public Accomodations, Health Care, Housing, Credit Practices, Religious Exception, Name Change and Identity Documentation, Hate Crimes Protection, Legal Rights of Prisoners, Employment (Transgender people are entitled to equal treatment in every aspect of employment). Complete information available on ACLU-Iowa website at https://www.aclu-ia.org/en/know-your-rights/ transgender-iowa-know-your-rights
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