The following was sent by email to faculty, staff and students from Veronica Salazar, senior executive vice president for Enterprise Development and Transformation at UT San Antonio.
Earlier this year, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 8 (SB 8), which requires state agencies and universities to ensure that multiple-occupancy private spaces — such as restrooms, showers and changing rooms — are designated for use by people of the same biological sex. This law goes into effect on Thursday, Dec. 4.
To ensure university-wide compliance, UT San Antonio has been implementing the following changes:
Redesignation of Restrooms: All multiple-occupancy restrooms across our campuses are being reclassified for single-gender use in accordance with the law.
Updates for Students Living on Campus:
Restroom access for applicable residential students is being updated on their UTSACard. Students whose access will change have received advanced notice to schedule their ID card programming.
In a limited number of situations, room reassignments are necessary to comply with the law. The Housing and Residence Life team has been contacting the approximately 30 residents who are affected.
We recognize that these changes are occurring on a short timeline, and we appreciate your understanding as we work quickly to meet all state requirements while maintaining operational continuity across the university.
If you have questions or need support, contact the Office of Compliance and Risk Services at [email protected]. Students living on campus may also contact Housing and Residence Life at [email protected]. Additional information can be found on the compliance website.
Thank you for your time and attention to this important update. UT San Antonio remains committed to implementing state law responsibly while fostering a respectful and supportive environment for all members of our community.