Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed SB 2753 requiring birth-sex-based restrooms and housing in public schools and universities

On May 13, 2024, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed Senate Bill 2753, the "Securing Areas for Females Effectively and Responsibly Act" (SAFER Act), into law, announcing the signing on social media. The law requires public schools, community colleges, and public universities to provide restrooms, changing facilities, and single-sex student housing designated by sex "determined solely by a birth," barring people from using facilities that do not correspond to their birth sex. It sets out narrow exceptions permitting a person of the opposite sex to enter a single-sex facility — to assist a young child or a vulnerable person, for law enforcement or fire-protection services, or to render emergency medical aid.

The measure, sponsored by Sen. Josh Harkins and passed by the Mississippi Legislature, defines "male" and "female" by reproductive biology fixed at birth and codifies those birth-based definitions of "female," "male," and "sex" throughout state law, without regard to gender identity. It creates a private civil cause of action allowing individuals to sue over violations — minors suing through a parent or "next friend," or in their own name after turning 18 — while shielding public institutions and state agencies from liability. Reeves said the law would "protect women's spaces" and "keep Mississippi's daughters safe," while the ACLU of Mississippi and the Human Rights Campaign said it targets transgender people for discrimination. The law took effect immediately.