WV Senate Passes Bill on Sex Definition, Blocks Sports Ban

The West Virginia Senate passed Senate Bill 456, which defines 'male' and 'female' based on biological sex at birth and aims to restrict transgender individuals from accessing women’s restrooms, locker rooms, and domestic violence shelters, with a vote of 32-1. The bill is supported by Senator Mike Stuart and Governor Patrick Morrisey as a means to protect women's privacy. Senator Joey Garcia, the only dissenting vote, argued the bill perpetuates unfounded fears rather than addressing real issues facing the state. Opponents, including LGBTQ advocacy groups, contend that the bill is intrusive and stigmatizes transgender individuals. Separately, legislation aimed at barring transgender women and girls from participating in female school sports was blocked in the Senate by a 51-45 vote. These debates reflect ongoing cultural conflicts regarding transgender rights and the definition of gender in legislation.