Dana Ferguson

dferguson@argusleader.com

Caitlyn Jenner has asked Gov. Dennis Daugaard to veto a so-called transgender bathroom bill.

Jenner on Twitter Monday night shared a message from the American Civil Liberties Union opposing House Bill 1008 and asking that the Republican governor veto it.

The bill has gained national attention since it passed the South Dakota Senate earlier this month.

The measure, sponsored by Rep. Fred Deutsch, R-Florence, would bar transgender students from using public school bathrooms, locker rooms and shower rooms of the gender with which they identify. Those who don't want to use bathrooms of their biological sex could request that the schools provide "reasonable accommodations."

Supporters say the measure provides privacy for all students and helps schools navigate federal Title IX regulations, while opponents say it is discriminatory and could lead to legal action for schools.

Daugaard had not yet received the bill Monday, but will have five days to sign or veto before the bill becomes law barring his action.

The governor said earlier this month that he hadn't knowingly met a transgender person and didn't plan to before making his decision. Daugaard has since reconsidered and will meet transgender students and directors from the Center for Equality Tuesday.

National advocacy groups for LGBT rights and civil liberties have launched campaigns urging Daugaard to veto the measure while national conservative groups have urged its passage.

And across the state, South Dakota residents have protested for and against the bill and were vocal to lawmakers over the weekend about their positions.

Follow Dana Ferguson on Twitter @bydanaferguson

Transgender bill's critics threaten tourism boycott