A Life Time Fitness center in St. Louis is under scrutiny following allegations that it permitted a gender confused man access to the women’s locker rooms. Missouri State Attorney General Andrew Bailey warned in a letter to the fitness chain’s CEO that such a move could potentially result in civil and criminal liabilities. Bailey contends that the practice of permitting biological males into restrooms of their choosing may be popular in corporate policy circles, but will not be permitted in his jurisdiction.
The investigation was triggered by an incident involving a 52-year-old man who entered the women’s locker room, to the disquiet of certain members. Employees allegedly corrected customers and directed them to use appropriate pronouns when referring to the individual. Bailey has accused the company of overlooking members’ safety concerns and enabling potentially criminal behavior by allowing a biological male to use private spaces intended for women and girls.
Bailey cites a state law on “Trespass in the first degree” and alleges that the presence of biological males in female spaces can result in charges for several sexual offenses. Although the company maintains that it is complying with existing legal requirements and cannot discriminate based on sex, the Attorney General warned of repercussions should the company continue to endanger women and girls.