I respectfully urge the Board of Health to withdraw its proposed regulatory action 12 VAC 5-660. This regulation not only politicizes the role of the Board but also undermines public trust in Virginia’s public health institutions.

By targeting transgender women and limiting their participation in athletics and access to public spaces, this policy risks serious harm to the physical and mental health of a vulnerable population. It also sets a troubling precedent for state-sanctioned discrimination, contradicting the principles outlined in the Virginia Human Rights Act.

Moreover, this regulation would erode privacy for all women by opening the door to intrusive and inappropriate gender verification practices in restrooms and changing facilities. Far from protecting anyone, this proposal will cause confusion, fear, and harm — without offering meaningful benefit to public health or safety.

I ask the Board to reconsider this action in favor of policies that uphold dignity, inclusion, and the rights of all Virginians.