Advocates for Trans Equality Condemns Rollback of Equal Access Rule Protections

Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released a proposed revised Equal Access Rule (EAR) that rolls back longstanding protections ensuring trans people can access federally funded shelters and services consistent with their gender identity. Kelly Parry-Johnson, Senior Counsel at Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE), released the following statement:

“The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) revised Equal Access Rule (EAR) proposes a dangerous rollback of protections that ensure trans people can access federally funded shelters and services safely and without discrimination. 

“For years, the Equal Access Rule has provided critical safeguards for trans people, particularly those experiencing homelessness, fleeing violence, or navigating crisis situations. This proposed revision removes references to gender identity from HUD regulations and replaces them with an inaccurate definition of sex based on so-called immutable biological classification. It also permits providers of single-sex facilities, including emergency shelters, to require documentation or other forms of intrusive or degrading verification to determine a person’s sex. 

“These changes could have immediate and harmful impacts on our most vulnerable communities nationwide. They replace clear, nondiscriminatory standards with vague policies that open the door to exclusion, profiling, and harm. 

“This proposed shift in federal policy risks leaving trans people without clear recourse if they are denied services or placed in unsafe or inappropriate settings. It also reduces accountability for service providers, increasing the likelihood of inconsistent and discriminatory treatment. At a time when trans rights are already under widespread attack, this rule compounds the barriers trans people face in accessing basic needs like housing and shelter. 

“In coalition with Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders (SAGE) and over a dozen other advocacy organizations, A4TE is preparing to launch a public comment portal beginning April 28th to support community engagement and ensure that trans people and allies can continue to raise their voices in opposition to these changes. 

“We will not stop fighting for the safety and dignity of trans people. We are exploring every available avenue—including legal action and continued advocacy—to challenge this rule and protect our community.”