Missouri transgender woman sparks controversy and investigations at gym locker room

A transgender woman’s recent use of the women’s locker room at a suburban St. Louis gym has sparked controversy, leading to protests, boycott threats, and calls for an investigation from the state’s Republican attorney general. The woman became a member of the gym on Sunday, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

By Friday, a Republican state legislator had held a news conference outside the gym, and demonstrators had gathered to express discontent with the fitness center. Rep. Justin Sparks, who represents a nearby House district, confirmed that he had been in contact with numerous individuals regarding the issue but denied organizing the protests.

A spokesperson for Life Time, Natalie Bushaw, stated that the transgender member had presented a female identification card to the gym staff. The Missouri Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on gender, and as a result, the member was permitted to use the women’s locker room.

Ellisville police reported receiving a complaint of alleged indecent exposure at the gym on Friday, but no charges have been brought forth as the matter is still under investigation. Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced his office’s investigation into the gym, warning Life Time that their policies may be facilitating unlawful behavior.

Missouri does not currently have a law addressing restroom access for transgender individuals, and the attorney general’s ability to pursue criminal charges is limited. Bailey referenced a prior court ruling involving a man who trespassed in a women’s restroom, highlighting the legal implications of such actions.

The incident has drawn attention ahead of Tuesday’s primary election, where voters will decide whether to re-elect Bailey for another term or nominate Will Scharf as the Republican candidate. The primary winner typically has a significant advantage in the general election in the GOP-dominated state.