Protests Erupt Over Trans Athlete Bans

In California, a new bill, AB 89, aimed at banning transgender athletes assigned male at birth from participating in girls' sports, is set to be heard after a similar bill was voted down. Meanwhile, in Maine, protests continue against federal demands to ban transgender athletes from girls' sports, with activists arguing such measures violate the Maine Human Rights Act. These protests are part of a broader response to President Trump's executive orders targeting LGBTQ rights, which have sparked rallies in other states like Texas. The Trump administration has threatened to withdraw federal funding from states like Maine if they do not comply with these orders. Despite the pressure, local lawmakers and communities are rallying to support transgender students and uphold inclusive policies. The situation underscores a growing national debate over transgender rights in school sports and the broader implications for LGBTQ rights across the U.S.