The Obama administration on Friday sent
a letter to every public school district in the country directing
them to allow transgender students to use the bathrooms that match
their gender identity.
According to The New York Times,
the letter, signed by Justice and Education department officials,
does not have the force of law. However, schools that do not comply
risk lawsuits or possibly the loss of federal aid.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the
nation's largest LGBT rights advocate, applauded the move.
“This is a truly
significant moment not only for transgender young people but for all
young people, sending a message that every student deserves to be
treated fairly and supported by their teachers and schools,” HRC
President Chad Griffin said in a statement.
The move comes as the
Justice Department is suing the state of North Carolina over a law
that prohibits transgender people from using the bathroom of their
choice in government buildings, including schools.
(Related:
North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory to defend anti-gay law in court; U.S.
sues.)