A Missoula District Court judge heard oral arguments Thursday in a lawsuit challenging House Bill 121, the 2025 state law that requires sex-segregated spaces in multiuser public bathrooms, dormitories, and locker rooms. The case is one of the more closely watched civil rights challenges working through Montana courts this year, and a ruling could affect public facilities across the state, including those in Helena.
HB 121, passed by the 2025 Legislature, goes further than simply designating spaces — it also creates a legal avenue for individuals to bring action against facilities that do not comply with its requirements. Opponents of the law argue it infringes on the rights of transgender Montanans and exposes facilities to conflicting legal obligations. Supporters say the law codifies a straightforward standard for sex-separated spaces.
The Missoula case is in the district court stage, meaning an appeal to the Montana Supreme Court is a likely next step regardless of how the judge rules. Helena's city-owned facilities and Lewis and Clark County buildings would be subject to the law if it survives legal challenge. No ruling date has been announced.