New legislation establishes requirements for restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities in public schools and colleges.
FORT MILL, S.C. — State Representative Jackie Terribile (R–District 66) is highlighting the passage of the South Carolina Student Physical Privacy Act, legislation she proudly co-sponsored and supported to protect privacy and safety in public schools and institutions of higher learning.
The legislation requires public schools and public institutions of higher learning to designate multi-user restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities based on biological sex.
“It’s common sense: boys’ bathrooms and locker rooms are for boys, and girls’ bathrooms and locker rooms are for girls,” said Terribile. “Students deserve privacy and safety in these spaces, and our schools have a responsibility to protect them.”
The legislation passed the South Carolina General Assembly during the 2026 legislative session.
Many York County parents traveled to Columbia to testify and advocate for the legislation, demonstrating the importance of the issue to families throughout the community.
“I was proud to stand with the York County parents who took the time to travel to Columbia and make their voices heard,” Terribile said. “Their willingness to speak up and advocate for their children made a difference. Parents deserve to know that their concerns are being heard and that their children’s privacy is being protected.”
Terribile has made parental rights and student safety priorities throughout her public service. Before being elected to the House of Representatives, she served on the South Carolina State Board of Education, worked as a substitute teacher in Fort Mill schools, and advocated for parental rights in education.
Today, she serves on the House Education and Public Works Committee, where she continues to support legislation focused on student safety, academic accountability, and parental involvement.
“My approach to education has always been guided by some pretty simple principles: strong academics, safe classrooms, respected teachers, informed parents, and students prepared for the future,” Terribile said. “Protecting students’ privacy is part of that responsibility.”
About Representative Jackie Terribile
Jackie Terribile represents South Carolina House District 66, including portions of Fort Mill and Tega Cay. She serves on the House Education and Public Works Committee and previously served on the South Carolina State Board of Education
Sign up here to receive the Tega Cay Sun "day" Spectator every Sunday morning with all the news from the week directly to your inbox
Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
