Oxford Officials: Transgender Bathroom Law is About Public Safety
Oxford city leaders say public safety is what sparked the recent passage of an ordinance that forces transgender people to use public restrooms corresponding with their biological sex. But transgender advocates say the eastern Alabama city’s law is unjustifiable.
The Oxford City Council unanimously approved what is being called the most sweeping anti-transgender law in the country, punishable by a $500 fine or six months in prison.
“Really what we’re looking at here is a nonsensical ordinance to the fear mongering that we’re seeing across the United States, says,” Eva Walton Kendrick of the Human Rights Campaign in Birmingham.
But council president, Steven Waits, says the law is about public safety. He argues that allowing people to use a bathroom that doesn’t match their biological sex endangers citizens, particularly women and children.
“There have been those who have become so politically immersed in political correctness that they become blind to the unsafe conditions their policies may create,” Waits says.
He adds that the council is not concerned about how this law will affect transgender residents and visitors in Oxford since they make up only a fraction of the population.
The ordinance now goes to Oxford Mayor, Leon Smith, for approval. However, city officials say they’re unsure when this is will take place.
Here are the 2026 Golden Globe nominations
Marlon Wayans and Skye P. Marshall presented the nominees for the 83rd Golden Globes this morning. The awards ceremony will be held on Jan. 11, hosted by Nikki Glaser.
After Texas ruling, Trump and Republicans head to 2026 with a redistricting edge
Trump has prompted a redistricting race as he tries to maintain Republican control of the House in the 2026 elections. Democrats have fewer options to counter, as the battle heads into next year.
How China, not the U.S., became the main climate solution story in 2025
The U.S. has become a "side character" in the global story of renewable energy, experts say. China dominates the sector, with positive implications for the climate and their economy.
Supreme Court to hear case that could vastly expand presidential powers
The Supreme Court hears arguments in a case about President Trump's firing of a Federal Trade Commissioner. At stake is a 90-year precedent limiting the president's power over independent agencies.
Republicans push high deductible plans and health savings accounts
A Republican call to give Americans cash instead of health insurance subsidies revives an old idea that has left millions with medical debt.
Zelenskyy heads to London for more Ukraine peace talks. Here’s what to know
The talks signal fresh support from European allies. But they follow stalled U.S. negotiations in Miami and comments from President Trump's son suggesting Washington is ready to pull back.
