Case: Zinner v. The State of Tennessee

3:23-cv-00535 | U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee

Filed Date: May 24, 2023

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This is a case challenging a Tennessee public employee health benefits program that allegedly discriminates against transgender individuals.  The Tennessee Comprehensive Medical and Hospitalization Program provides public employees with health care coverage, but denies coverage of “surgery or treatment for, or related to, sex transformations” – a provision referred to as the “Exclusion.” This excluded treatment can be used to treat a medical condition called gender dysphoria, which is clinicall…

This is a case challenging a Tennessee public employee health benefits program that allegedly discriminates against transgender individuals. 

The Tennessee Comprehensive Medical and Hospitalization Program provides public employees with health care coverage, but denies coverage of “surgery or treatment for, or related to, sex transformations” – a provision referred to as the “Exclusion.” This excluded treatment can be used to treat a medical condition called gender dysphoria, which is clinically significant distress that can result from the dissonance between a transgender individual’s gender identity and sex assigned at birth.

On May 24, 2023, two transgender public employees diagnosed with gender dysphoria filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee in the Nashville Division. The plaintiffs sued the State of Tennessee, along with several agencies, departments, and officials associated with the Program, all named in their official capacities, asserting that the Exclusion violated the Equal Protection Clause, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, and Title IX of the Education Amendments. The plaintiffs alleged that the Program intentionally discriminated against them based on sex and transgender status, provided lesser terms of compensation to transgender employees because of sex, and denied transgender employees the full benefits of an education program or activity based on sex. The plaintiffs sought declaratory relief, injunctive relief barring the state from further enforcement or application of the Exclusion or any analogous future provision, damages, and attorney’s fees. The case was assigned to District Judge Aleta A. Trauger.

On August 8, 2023, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss for lack of subject-matter jurisdiction and failure to state a claim. They argued that both plaintiffs lacked standing, that the Exclusion applied equally to both sexes, that transgender individuals do not constitute a suspect class under the Equal Protection Clause, and that the other claims were time-barred, among other things. 

On September 26, 2023, the United States filed a Statement of Interest, arguing that the Exclusion constituted sex discrimination and that the plaintiffs had sufficiently stated a claim under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

On November 15, 2023, the defendants’ motion to dismiss was denied as moot in anticipation of an amended complaint. One week later, the plaintiffs filed an amended complaint, adding a plaintiff and a defendant while strengthening their factual allegations. 

On December 6, 2023, the defendants filed motions to dismiss for lack of subject-matter jurisdiction and failure to state a claim. They argued that one of the plaintiffs lacked standing, that the Exclusion did not implicate heightened scrutiny, and that the plaintiffs’ other claims were time-barred, among other things. 

On January 10, 2024, the U.S. filed a Statement of Interest, arguing that the Exclusion facially discriminated based on transgender status and that the plaintiffs sufficiently stated a claim under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

On September 5, 2024, the court stayed its consideration of the pending motions to dismiss and administratively closed the case until the Supreme Court issued its Skrmetti decision. In the defendants’ briefing, they heavily relied on the Sixth Circuit’s opinion in L.W. ex rel. Williams v. Skrmetti, 83 F.4th 460, arguing that it established the appropriate constitutional framework for considering legal restrictions on medical care for gender dysphoria. After the defendants filed their motions to dismiss, the U.S. Supreme Court granted certiorari in Skrmetti. 

On February 27, 2025, the U.S. withdrew its January 10, 2024 Statement of Interest. 

On June 18, 2025, the Supreme Court issued its Skrmetti decision, holding that a Tennessee law prohibiting certain medical treatments for transgender minors was not subject to heightened scrutiny under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and satisfied rational basis review.

On August 12, 2025, the parties jointly filed a consent motion to reopen the case as to Count II (violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) while dismissing Counts I and III (violations of the Equal Protection Clause and Title IX of the Education Amendments). Later that day, the court granted the motion.

This case is ongoing.

Summary Authors

Alexis Gil (7/18/2026)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67429166/parties/zinner-v-the-state-of-tennessee/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff

Arkles, Z. Gabriel (Tennessee)

Charlton, Suzan (Tennessee)

Cramer, Phillip F. (Tennessee)

Cukor, Ezra Ungrich (Tennessee)

Attorney for Defendant
Expert/Monitor/Master/Other

Baluch, Ejaz H. (Tennessee)

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Documents in this case
1

3:23-cv-00535

Complaint

May 24, 2023

May 24, 2023

Complaint
52

3:23-cv-00535

Motion To Dismiss By Defendants State Of Tennessee, State Insurance Committee And Its Members, Local Education Insurance Committee And Its Members, Department Of Finance And Administration, Dfa Commissioner Jim Bryson, University Of Tennessee, And Ut President Randy Boyd

Zinner et al. v. State of Tennessee et al.

Aug. 8, 2023

Aug. 8, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
53

3:23-cv-00535

Memorandum Of Law In Support Of Motion To Dismiss By Defendants State Of Tennessee, State Insurance Committee And Its Members, Local Education Insurance Committee And Its Members, Department Of Finance And Administration, Dfa Commissioner Jim Bryson, University Of Tennessee, And Ut President Randy Boyd

Zinner et al. v. State of Tennessee et al.

Aug. 8, 2023

Aug. 8, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
65

3:23-cv-00535

Statement of Interest of the United States of America

Zinner et al. v. State of Tennessee et al.

Sept. 26, 2023

Sept. 26, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
89

3:23-cv-00535

First Amended Complaint

Nov. 22, 2023

Nov. 22, 2023

Complaint
92

3:23-cv-00535

State Defendants’ Joint Motion To Dismiss First Amended Complaint

Zinner et al. v. State of Tennessee et al.

Dec. 6, 2023

Dec. 6, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
93

3:23-cv-00535

Memorandum Of Law In Support Of State Defendants’ Joint Motion To Dismiss First Amended Complaint

Zinner et al. v. State of Tennessee et al.

Dec. 6, 2023

Dec. 6, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
95

3:23-cv-00535

Knox County Board Of Education’s Memorandum Of Law In Support Of Motion To Dismiss Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint

Zinner et al. v. Knox County Board of Education et al.

Dec. 6, 2023

Dec. 6, 2023

Pleading / Motion / Brief
102

3:23-cv-00535

Statement of Interest of the United States of America

Zinner et al. v. The State of Tennessee et al.

Jan. 10, 2024

Jan. 10, 2024

Pleading / Motion / Brief
125

3:23-cv-00535

Order

Zinner et al. v. The State of Tennessee et al.

Sept. 5, 2024

Sept. 5, 2024

Order/Opinion

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67429166/zinner-v-the-state-of-tennessee/

Last updated Sept. 7, 2026, 3:21 a.m.

Docket for: Zinner v. The State of Tennessee
ECF Number Date Description Link
1 May 24, 2023

COMPLAINT against Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Knox County Board of Education, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The State of Tennessee, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams (Filing fee $402, Receipt number ATNMDC-3832544), filed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment - Civil Cover Sheet)(ad) Modified on 5/30/2023 (ad). (Entered: 05/25/2023)

1 Attachment - Civil Cover Sheet

View on PACER

Clearinghouse
2 May 25, 2023

NOTICE of Business Entity Disclosure Statement filing requirement. (ad) (Entered: 05/25/2023)

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3 May 25, 2023

NOTICE/INFORMATION regarding Consent of the Parties to the Magistrate Judge. (ad) (Entered: 05/25/2023)

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4 May 25, 2023

NOTICE of Initial Case Management Conference set for 9/21/2023 at 01:30 PM in Chambers - Suite 6325 before District Judge Aleta A. Trauger. (ad) (Entered: 05/25/2023)

RECAP
5 May 25, 2023

Summons issued as to Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Knox County Board of Education, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumford, State Insurance Committee, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The State of Tennessee, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. Service copies will be picked up by counsel. (ad) (Main Document 5 replaced on 5/25/2023) (ad). (Entered: 05/25/2023)

RECAP
May 26, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for J. Scott Hickman, Phillip F. Cramer admitted to this court. (ad)

May 26, 2023

NY State Bar status verified as active for Ezra Cukor, Z. Gabriel Arkles, Shayna Medley not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

May 26, 2023

DC State Bar status verified as active for Natalie Ritchie, Elaine H. Nguyen not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

May 26, 2023

Annotation - Bar Status

May 26, 2023

CA State Bar status verified as active for Darren Teshima, Udit Sood, Robert Winson not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

May 26, 2023

Annotation - PHV

May 26, 2023

NOTICE TO COUNSEL Ezra Cukor, Z. Gabriel Arkles, Andrea Green, Shayna Medley, Darren Teshima, Udit Sood, Natalie Ritchie, Elaine H. Nguyen, Robert Winson: WITHIN 21 DAYS, counsel shall file a Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice, a Certificate of Good Standing signed by the Clerk of a United States District Court or a U. S. appellate court where admitted, and pay a fee of $150.00 (LR 83.01(b)). PHV due by 6/16/2023. (ad)

6 May 30, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Ryan Nicole Henry on behalf of Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The State of Tennessee, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams (Henry, Ryan) (Entered: 05/30/2023)

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7 May 31, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Steven James Griffin on behalf of All Defendants (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 05/31/2023)

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8 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Udit Sood to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837690) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificiate of Good Standing - Udit Sood)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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9 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Darren Tashima to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837698) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Darren Tashima)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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10 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Robert Winson to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837708) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Robert Winson)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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11 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Elaine Nguyen to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837717) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Elaine Nguyen)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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12 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Andrea Green to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837719) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Andrea Green)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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13 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Shayna Medley to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837726) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Shayna Medley)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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14 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Ezra Ungrich Cukor to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837730) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Ezra Ungrich Cukor)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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15 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Z. Gabriel Arkles to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837737) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Z. Gabriel Arkles)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

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16 June 1, 2023

MOTION for attorney Natalie Ritchie to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3837744) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing - Natalie Ritchie)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/01/2023)

RECAP
June 2, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Ryan Nicole Henry admitted to this court. (ad)

June 2, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Steven James Griffin admitted to this court. (ad)

June 2, 2023

NY State Bar status verified as active for Andrea Green not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

17 June 5, 2023

ORDER granting 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 : Having satisfied the requirements of Local Rule 83.01(b), the Motions for Udit Sood, Darren Tashima, Robert Winson, Elaine Nguyen, Andrea Green, Shayna Medley, Ezra Ungrich Cukor, Z. Gabriel Arkles, and Natalie Ritchie to Appear Pro Hac Vice are granted. Signed by Lynda M. Hill, Clerk of Court, on 06/05/2023. (lh) (Entered: 06/05/2023)

RECAP
June 5, 2023

Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice

18 June 6, 2023

Joint MOTION for Extension of Time to File Answer re 1 Complaint,, by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment A - Proposed Agreed Order)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/06/2023)

1 Attachment A - Proposed Agreed Order

View on PACER

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19 June 6, 2023

AGREED ORDER GRANTING JOINT MOTION 18 FOR EXTENSION OF TIME: It is hereby ORDERED that State Defendants shall have until July 24, 2023 to file responsive pleadings to the Complaint 1 . Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 6/6/2023. (DOCKET TEXT SUMMARY ONLY-ATTORNEYS MUST OPEN THE PDF AND READ THE ORDER.)(ln) (Entered: 06/06/2023)

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20 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Bo Watson served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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21 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Carter Lawrence served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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22 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. David Lillard served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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23 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Erin Johnson served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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24 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Holly Girgies served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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25 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Jason Mumpower served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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26 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Jennifer White served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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27 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Jim Bryson served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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28 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Juan Williams served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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29 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Judi Knecht served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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30 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Kristy Baddour served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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31 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Local Education Insurance Committee served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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32 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Maryanne Durski served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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33 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Michelle Consiglio-Young served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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34 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Patsy Hazelwood served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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35 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Randy Boyd served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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36 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. State Insurance Committee served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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37 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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38 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Terry Carroll served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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39 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. State of Tennessee, The served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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40 June 7, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. The University of Tennessee served on 6/1/2023. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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41 June 7, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Jessica Jernigan-Johnson on behalf of Knox County Board of Education (Jernigan-Johnson, Jessica) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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42 June 7, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by David M. Sanders on behalf of Knox County Board of Education (Sanders, David) (Entered: 06/07/2023)

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43 June 8, 2023

Joint MOTION for Extension of Time to File Answer re 1 Complaint,, by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment A - Proposed Agreed Order)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/08/2023)

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44 June 8, 2023

ORDER granting 43 Motion for Extension of Time to Answer. Knox County Board of Education answer due 7/24/2023. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 06/08/23. (ad). (Entered: 06/08/2023)

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45 June 8, 2023

AGREED ORDER: It is hereby ORDERED that Defendant Knox County Board of Education shall have until July 24, 2023 to file responsive pleadings to the Complaint. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 06/08/23. (ad) (Entered: 06/08/2023)

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46 June 12, 2023

SUMMONS returned executed by Gerda Zinner, Story Vanness. Knox County Board of Education served on 6/6/2023. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment USPS Return Receipt)(Hickman, J.) (Entered: 06/12/2023)

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June 12, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Jessica Jernigan-Johnson admitted to this court. (ad)

June 12, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for David M. Sanders admitted to this court. (ad)

47 July 19, 2023

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Answer re 1 Complaint,, by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 07/19/2023)

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48 July 20, 2023

ORDER: Motion 47 for Extension of Time to File Answer to Complaint 1 GRANTED. Extension to 8/8/2023. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 7/20/2023. (ln) (Entered: 07/20/2023)

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49 Aug. 8, 2023

ANSWER to 1 Complaint,, by Knox County Board of Education.(Jernigan-Johnson, Jessica) (Entered: 08/08/2023)

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50 Aug. 8, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Brooke Ashley Huppenthal on behalf of Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams (Huppenthal, Brooke) (Entered: 08/08/2023)

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51 Aug. 8, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Reed Neal Smith on behalf of Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams (Smith, Reed) (Entered: 08/08/2023)

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52 Aug. 8, 2023

MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim, MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 08/08/2023)

Clearinghouse
53 Aug. 8, 2023

MEMORANDUM in Support of 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction filed by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams . (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Ex. 1 - State Plan Document, # 2 Exhibit Ex. 2 - Local Education Plan Document)(Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 08/08/2023)

1 Exhibit Ex. 1 - State Plan Document

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2 Exhibit Ex. 2 - Local Education Plan Document

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Clearinghouse
Aug. 9, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Brooke Ashley Huppenthal admitted to this court. (ad)

Aug. 9, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Reed Neal Smith admitted to this court. (ad)

54 Aug. 18, 2023

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 08/18/2023)

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55 Aug. 21, 2023

ORDER: PLAINTIFFS' UNOPPOSED 54 MOTION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE OPPOSITION TO CERTAIN DEFENDANTS' MOTION TO DISMISS AND TO INCREASE PAGE LIMITS GRANTED in both respects. Response due by September 19, 2023. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 08/21/23. (DOCKET TEXT SUMMARY ONLY-ATTORNEYS MUST OPEN THE PDF AND READ THE ORDER.)(ad) (Entered: 08/21/2023)

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56 Aug. 21, 2023

MOTION for attorney Suzan Charlton to Appear Pro Hac Vice (paid $150 PHV fee; receipt number ATNMDC-3893111) by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing)(Sood, Udit) (Entered: 08/21/2023)

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Aug. 22, 2023

MD State Bar status verified as active for Suzan Charlton not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

57 Aug. 28, 2023

ORDER granting 56 : Having satisfied the requirements of Local Rule 83.01(b), the Motion for Suzan Charlton to Appear Pro Hac Vice is granted. Signed by Lynda M. Hill, Clerk of Court, on 08/28/2023. (lh) (Entered: 08/28/2023)

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Aug. 28, 2023

Appear Pro Hac Vice

58 Sept. 8, 2023

MOTION to Stay Discovery by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 09/08/2023)

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59 Sept. 8, 2023

MEMORANDUM in Support of 58 MOTION to Stay Discovery filed by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Knox County Board of Education, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams . (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 09/08/2023)

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60 Sept. 11, 2023

ORDER: Given the filing of a Motion to Dismiss (Doc. No. 52 ), it is hereby ORDERED that the initial case management conference scheduled for September 21, 2023 is continued, to be reset, if appropriate, after disposition of this motion. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 09/11/23. (ad) (Entered: 09/11/2023)

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61 Sept. 12, 2023

ORDER: The State Defendants' Motion to Stay Discovery (Doc. No. 58 ) is DENIED AS MOOT. In this court, discovery is stayed until the initial case management conference, and the initial case management conference has already been continued, to be reset, if appropriate, after disposition of the pending Motion to Dismiss. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 09/12/23. (ad) (Entered: 09/12/2023)

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62 Sept. 19, 2023

RESPONSE in Opposition re 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction filed by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Hickman, J.) (Entered: 09/19/2023)

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63 Sept. 22, 2023

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 09/22/2023)

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64 Sept. 22, 2023

ORDER: 63 Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Reply as to 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim is GRANTED. Replies due by 10/3/2023. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 9/22/2023. (DOCKET TEXT SUMMARY ONLY-ATTORNEYS MUST OPEN THE PDF AND READ THE ORDER.)(kc) (Entered: 09/22/2023)

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65 Sept. 26, 2023

NOTICE by United States of America of Statement of Interest (Veirs, Kimberly) (Entered: 09/26/2023)

Clearinghouse
66 Sept. 27, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by Kimberly S. Veirs on behalf of United States of America (Veirs, Kimberly) (Entered: 09/27/2023)

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67 Sept. 27, 2023

NOTICE of Appearance by S. Jae Lim on behalf of United States of America (Lim, S. Jae) (Entered: 09/27/2023)

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68 Sept. 28, 2023

NOTICE by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner of Withdrawal of Counsel (Green, Andrea) (Entered: 09/28/2023)

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69 Sept. 28, 2023

MOTION for attorney Ejaz H. Baluch, Jr. to Appear Pro Hac Vice (Fee Waived) by United States of America. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing)(Veirs, Kimberly) Modified on 10/12/2023 (ad). (Entered: 09/28/2023)

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70 Sept. 28, 2023

MOTION for attorney Jennifer M. Swedish to Appear Pro Hac Vice (Fee Waived) by United States of America. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Certificate of Good Standing)(Veirs, Kimberly) Modified on 10/12/2023 (ad). (Entered: 09/28/2023)

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Sept. 28, 2023

TN State Bar status verified as active for Kimberly S. Veirs, S. Jae Lim admitted to this court. (ad)

Sept. 29, 2023

MD State Bar status verified as active for Ejaz H. Baluch, Jr. not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

Sept. 29, 2023

DC State Bar status verified as active for Jennifer Swedish not admitted to this court - Local counsel secured. (ad)

71 Oct. 3, 2023

MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Smith, Reed) (Entered: 10/03/2023)

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72 Oct. 3, 2023

REPLY to Response to re 52 MOTION to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim MOTION to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction filed by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Knox County Board of Education, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 10/03/2023)

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73 Oct. 4, 2023

ORDER: Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages 71 is GRANTED. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 10/4/2023. (ln) (Entered: 10/04/2023)

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74 Oct. 10, 2023

MOTION for Leave to File Sur-Reply in Opposition to State Defendants' Motion to Dismiss by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment Plaintiffs' Sur-Reply Memorandum of Law in Opposition to State Defendants' Motion to Dismiss)(Sood, Udit) (Entered: 10/10/2023)

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75 Oct. 11, 2023

ORDER: Motion 74 FOR LEAVE TO FILE SUR-REPLY IN OPPOSITION TO STATE DEFENDANTS' MOTION TO DISMISS GRANTED. Signed by District Judge Aleta A. Trauger on 10/11/23. (ad) (Entered: 10/11/2023)

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76 Oct. 11, 2023

Sur-Reply filed by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner re 52 Motion to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim, Motion to Dismiss/Lack of Jurisdiction, filed by Local Education Insurance Committee, Erin Johnson, Bo Watson, Jim Bryson, Carter Lawrence, Juan Williams, David Lillard, State Insurance Committee, Kristy Baddour, Maryanne Durski, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Jason Mumpower, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Patsy Hazelwood, Jennifer White, Judi Knecht, Randy Boyd, Holly Girgies, State of Tennessee, The. (ad) (Entered: 10/11/2023)

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77 Oct. 12, 2023

ORDER granting 69 and 70 : Having satisfied the requirements of Local Rule 83.01(b), the Motions for Ejaz H. Baluch, Jr. and Jennifer M. Swedish to Appear Pro Hac Vice are granted. Signed by Lynda M. Hill, Clerk of Court, on 10/12/2023. (lh) (Entered: 10/12/2023)

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Oct. 12, 2023

Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Appear Pro Hac Vice

78 Oct. 13, 2023

NOTICE by Story Vanness, Gerda Zinner of Withdrawal of Counsel (Sood, Udit) (Entered: 10/13/2023)

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79 Oct. 18, 2023

MOTION for Leave to File Sur-Rebuttal in Support of State Defendants' Motion to Dismiss by Kristy Baddour, Randy Boyd, Jim Bryson, Terry Carroll, Michelle Consiglio-Young, Maryanne Durski, Holly Girgies, Patsy Hazelwood, Erin Johnson, Judi Knecht, Carter Lawrence, David Lillard, Local Education Insurance Committee, Jason Mumpower, State Insurance Committee, State of Tennessee, The, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, The University of Tennessee, Bo Watson, Jennifer White, Juan Williams. (Attachments: # 1 Attachment State Defendants' Sur-Rebuttal in Support of their Motion to Dismiss)(Griffin, Steven) (Entered: 10/18/2023)

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Case Details

State / Territory:

Tennessee

Case Type(s):

Healthcare Access and Reproductive Issues

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Litigation and Investigations Involving the Government

Trump Administration 2.0: Reversing Course on Existing Litigation

Key Dates

Filing Date: May 24, 2023

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

The plaintiffs are two transgender state employees.

Plaintiff Type(s):

Private Plaintiff

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

County

Knox County Board of Education

State

Commissioner of the Department of Finance and Administration

Department of Finance and Administration

Local Education Insurance Committee

President of the University of Tennessee System

State Insurance Committee

State of Tennessee

University of Tennessee

Defendant Type(s):

College/University

Hospital/Health Department

Insurer

Jurisdiction-wide

Facility Type(s):

Government-run

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Civil Rights Act of 1957/1960, 52 U.S.C. § 10101 (previously 42 U.S.C. § 1971)

Constitutional Clause(s):

Equal Protection

Other Dockets:

Middle District of Tennessee 3:23-cv-00535

Available Documents:

Complaint (any)

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Relief Sought:

Attorneys fees

Damages

Declaratory judgment

Injunction

Relief Granted:

None yet

Source of Relief:

None yet

Issues

General/Misc.:

Public benefits (includes, e.g., in-state tuition, govt. jobs)

Discrimination Area:

Disparate Impact

Disparate Treatment

Discrimination Basis:

Gender identity

Sex discrimination

LGBTQ+:

LGBTQ+

Transgender

Medical/Mental Health Care:

Gender-affirming care

Medical care, general

Recommended Citation