In a significant legal development, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth has issued a preliminary injunction that allows transgender inmates previously moved to male facilities to return to women’s prisons. This ruling comes in response to a lawsuit challenging an executive order by former President Donald Trump that required inmates to be housed according to their biological sex.

Background on the Ruling

The judge’s injunction was a direct response to claims made by two transgender inmates, referred to as Rachel and Ellen Doe, who argued that their transfer to male prisons resulted in abuse and denial of proper accommodations, such as access to appropriate undergarments.

The ruling highlights the alleged risks faced by transgender inmates in male facilities, including sexual harassment and other forms of abuse. Judge Lamberth asserted that the circumstances since their transfer could lead to irreparable harm.

Legal and Political Reactions

The Department of Justice (DOJ) characterized the ruling as an overreach by what they termed an “activist judge,” insisting that the Trump administration had justified its policies aimed at protecting women in prison. A spokesperson for the DOJ reinforced that they will continue to support the executive orders previously established.

Inmates’ Claims and Continued Legal Challenges

The original lawsuit, which includes claims from multiple inmates, contends that transferring transgender women to male prisons exposes them to increased risks of sexual harassment, assault, and other violence. The ongoing litigation challenges the broader implications of the executive order and questions the legality of such transfers under current protections for transgender individuals.

This injunction is part of a series of legal confrontations surrounding the Trump administration’s policies regarding transgender individuals in the correctional system. For instance, another inmate, identified as Maria Moe, filed a lawsuit shortly after the administration’s order, which included changes to her designation from female to male upon transfer to a male facility.

Future Implications

As the case progresses, the judge has yet to decide on another pending lawsuit involving a transgender woman and two transgender men challenging restrictions on access to medical treatments in correctional facilities. The court’s decisions may have lasting impacts on how transgender inmates are treated and housed across the United States.

Reportedly, at least 15 transgender inmates currently have protections from transfer orders as a result of this ongoing legal battle.