Idaho legislators gave final approval to a bill that would make it a criminal offense for individuals to use bathrooms, locker rooms, or similar facilities designated for the opposite biological sex, including in some private businesses.

The state Senate passed the measure in a 28–7 vote after it cleared the House last week. Republican Gov. Brad Little is expected to sign the legislation into law.

The bill states that a person who “knowingly and willfully” enters a facility designated for the opposite sex could face criminal penalties. The policy applies to government buildings as well as locations defined as “public accommodations,” a category that includes many private businesses.

Under the measure, a first offense would be treated as a misdemeanor carrying a potential sentence of up to one year in jail. A second offense within five years would rise to a felony, with a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Supporters of the legislation argue it is intended to reinforce sex-separated spaces and address privacy and safety concerns raised by constituents. Lawmakers backing the bill described it as consistent with existing state policy direction and cultural standards.

The proposal gained traction following a reported 2025 incident in Sandpoint, where staff at a local YMCA said law enforcement indicated there was limited recourse in response to a complaint involving bathroom use.

The bill includes exceptions for certain situations, such as maintenance work, emergency response, and parents or guardians assisting children or family members. It also allows for a “dire need” exception under specific circumstances.

If signed, the law would place Idaho among a growing number of states adopting policies governing access to sex-segregated facilities, particularly as debates over privacy, safety, and gender identity continue at the state level.