Minnesota House Rejects Bill Banning Trans Athletes from Women's Sports

In Minnesota, a proposed bill known as the 'Preserving Girls’ Sports Act,' which aimed to prohibit transgender women from competing in women's sports, was narrowly defeated in the state House of Representatives by a vote of 67-66. Democratic Rep. Alicia Kozlowski, who identifies as non-binary, spoke passionately against the bill, equating it to 'state-sanctioned bullying and genocide' and arguing it was not about fairness but rather about erasing the identities of transgender and non-binary individuals. Republican Rep. Peggy Scott, who sponsored the bill, argued it was necessary to ensure the safety and opportunities of cisgender female athletes. The bill failed to garner the required 68 votes, with all Republicans supporting it and all Democrats opposing it. The debate highlights ongoing national tensions surrounding transgender rights in sports, with similar proposals being discussed in various states. The Minnesota State High School League does not track the number of transgender athletes, making it difficult to assess the impact of such legislation.