University of Montana and Montana State University students want the state Board of Regents to add sexual orientation and gender identity to its nondiscrimination policy.
The Missoulian reports ( https://bit.ly/UWQZrA) the board didn’t take action on the request at its Nov. 15-16 meeting in Missoula. Officials in Commissioner of Higher Education’s office say the proposal needs to be studied for its effects at all the Montana university system campuses.
UM and MSU policies include sexual orientation, but do not include gender identity.
If that were added, associate commissioner Kevin McRae says the schools could be required to provide accommodations like separate bathrooms and showers for transgender students.
Student senates at both UM and MSU urged regents to change the policy to ensure all students, faculty and staff feel welcome on campus.
