A music teacher in north Texas has resigned from his job after the state's bathroom ban came into effect in December, citing the law's impact on his ability to work safely. The teacher, who is transgender and had been 'stealth' at work, said the policy created an impossible situation.
The law, which applies to multi-occupancy bathrooms in public buildings including schools, imposes fines of $25,000 for a first offence and $125,000 for subsequent violations. The teacher feared being reported would financially harm his already struggling school district.
He described resorting to using gas station bathrooms or holding his bladder, leading to health issues such as urinary tract infections and exhaustion. 'This is humiliation disguised as policy,' he said, explaining his decision to leave a job he loved.
The teacher had started his career under President Biden with optimism, but said the political climate in Texas has become progressively more dangerous for transgender people. He noted that recent legislation, including a ban on healthcare for trans youth and a narrow legal definition of male and female, has created a climate of fear.
