The Student Government Association Student Senate passed a bill promoting gender neutral housing at the University of Tennessee on Tuesday at their weekly session. Bill 01-13 was passed with a majority of 27 votes with 18 opposing votes, and two votes abstained.

The bill was sponsored by Jacob Clark, senator for the College of Arts and Sciences. During the session the bill was brought up as a topic of discussion and a motion was made from the floor to extend time for debate.

Having a lot of options is really cool for any college kid. Giving people an extra option can serve as another attraction factor for incoming students. Henal Majethia, a member of Freshmen Council

“Multiple senators delivered arguments on how this legislation could have positive and negative effects on the University of Tennessee,” said Christian Powers, SGA student senate chair.

The bill offers housing options for siblings, committed and married couples and people who identify as transgendered.

Some students think it could be the deciding factor for future students who wish to attend UT. Henal Majethia, a member of Freshmen Council agrees with the bill.

“Having a lot of options is really cool for any college kid. Giving people an extra option can serve as another attraction factor for incoming students," Majethia said.

The bill ensures the United Residence Hall Council, SGA, UT administration, Division of Student Life and UT Housing will aid each other in developing a plan for gender neutral housing by next fall. The bill also says that these groups will meet to discuss progress being made.

Jessica Schneider, a freshman at UT also approves of the bill.

“I have an older brother that goes to UT. It would be easier to live with him because we grew up together as opposed to living with a stranger,” Schneider said.

The bill is not guaranteed yet, though, and must now go to administration for approval. For more SGA news click here.