Transgender students now able to use preferred bathroom in school (Calif) [View all]

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-transgender-20130813,0,4811697.story
The Los Angeles Times
By Patrick McGreevy
August 12, 2013

Transgender students now able to use preferred bathroom in school
Gov. Jerry Brown signs a bill allowing transgender students to use restrooms and compete in sports based on their gender identity. Opponents say it infringes on privacy.

SACRAMENTO — Beginning next year, transgender students in California schools will be able to compete on sports teams and use facilities, including restrooms, based on their gender identity rather than their sex.

Schools will have to open up their programs and facilities so that girls who identify themselves as boys are allowed to join boys' teams and programs, and vice versa.

"All students should have the opportunity to fully participate and succeed in school," said Evan Westrup, a spokesman for Gov. Jerry Brown, who signed the new policy into law Monday.

The measure, which takes effect Jan. 1, is intended to reduce bullying in schools and help transgender students feel more comfortable on campuses, said its author, Assemblyman Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco)... MORE at link