Minnesota House fails to pass bill to bar trans athletes from women’s sports

The Minnesota House failed to pass the “Preserving Girls’ Sports Act” weeks after President Donald Trump’s executive order to ban biological males from competing in women’s and girls sports. HF12, which needed 68 House votes for passage, fell one vote short with 67 affirmative votes to 66 negative votes.

The act aimed to ensure that only female students could participate in elementary or secondary school-level athletic teams or sports that educational institutions had restricted to women and girls. It defined female as biologically determined by genetics and with respect to an individual’s reproductive system.

Supporters and opponents gathered at the Capitol for a rally as they awaited the final vote. The discussion in the Minnesota House became emotional before the bill was voted on, with Republican state Rep. Peggy Scott, the bill’s sponsor, among those who spoke in support. She emphasized the importance of protecting girls from losing their spot on the team, being on the podium, or facing injury by competing with male teammates or competitors.

Republican state Rep. Marion Rarick also supported the bill, highlighting the fear around the world of women and girls competing with biological men. However, opponents argued against the act, citing concerns about trans discrimination.

Democratic state Rep. Brion Curran, chair of the Minnesota Queer Legislators Caucus, expressed that all children deserved to play and denounced what he called hateful and dangerous anti-trans rhetoric. Democratic state Rep. Liish Kozlowski labeled the act as a means to bully trans girls and non-binary kids.

While the debate continued, the Senate also voted on a bill banning trans athletes from competing in women’s sports but fell short of the 60 votes needed to pass. President Trump’s executive order directed the Education Department to address the issue of transgender athletes in women’s sports, but the Minnesota State High School League announced it would continue allowing trans athletes to participate based on state laws.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi warned of consequences if the “Preserving Girls’ Sports Act” was not passed, emphasizing the Department of Justice’s readiness to enforce federal law. Despite the executive order and warnings, the bill was ultimately voted down by Democrats in the Minnesota House.

Republican state Rep. Peggy Bennett argued that the bill was about fairness, safety, and preserving girls’ sports in Minnesota. However, Governor Tim Walz, a strong advocate for transgender rights, was expected to veto the bill if it had passed.

In conclusion, the debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports continues to be a contentious issue, with different perspectives on fairness, inclusion, and safety. The failure to pass the “Preserving Girls’ Sports Act” in the Minnesota House highlights the ongoing challenges and disagreements surrounding this topic.