By Bob Walsh
Jesse Vroegh, 34, is a male (now) nurse at the Iowa state prison for women in Mitchellville. He has just filed a discrimination lawsuit against the Iowa DOC for refusing to allow him to use the men’s restrooms and locker room, and for refusing to pay for his breast removal surgery.
Vroegh has worked for the DOC since 2009. In 2014 he informed the DOC that he was transitioning to living as a male. He requested to be able to use the men’s facilities and that his employer implement procedures for dealing with his situation. He was denied that permission and in fact is refused access to shower facilities at work at all. He is required to use a designated, unisex bathroom. The shower situation has been an issue due to occasional exposure to OC at work.
Vroegh’s medical doctor recommended breast removal as treatment for his diagnosed condition of gender dysphoria. Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has refused to pay for the surgery, saying it is not covered.
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is supporting Vroegh, as is a local LBGT organization. The Iowa DOC has declined comment due to the pending complaint.
One would think that two years would be enough time for the DOC to come to grips with this issue. It will come up again.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Why should the DOC pay for his/her breast removal surgery? If insurance won't cover the surgery, neither should the taxpayers. Let LGBT pay for it!
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