(The Center Square) – Wisconsin’s governor is promising to veto a proposal that would keep girls sports in Wisconsin for biological girls only.
The Wisconsin Senate approved the plan Tuesday. The legislation would ban anyone born a male from competing in girls sports in middle school, high school or college in Wisconsin.
“Organized sports are built on the principle of fair and safe competition. The movement to open girls’/women’s sports to biological males raises legitimate concerns about the inherent physical advantages that males tend to possess,” Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, said.
Knodl and other supporters say not only would the ban keep girls physically safe, but it would also protect women’s sports from being taken over by men.
“Allowing biological males to participate in female sports could deny deserving female athletes the recognition, scholarships, and university admissions that come with athletic achievement. This is why we have Title IX protections, which exist to ensure equal opportunities for female athletes and to address these historical disparities,” Knodl said.
Opponents say the proposal is cruel to trans children.
Sen Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit, said during the Senate debate that the plan is ultimately doomed.
“How many times does Gov. Evers have to veto or promise to veto a bill, a bill like this or others like it that target transgender Wisconsinites, before you get the message that this will never become law in Wisconsin?” Spreitzer asked. “I am so disappointed to be standing here again to talk about why legislation that attacks LGBTQ kids in Wisconsin is dangerous.”
Evers immediately promised a veto.
“Republicans’ anti-LGBTQ bills targeting trans kids will never become law as long as I’m governor,” Evers said on social media. “I’ll keep my promise to veto any bill making Wisconsin less safe, less inclusive, and less welcoming for LGBTQ people and kids—including this one. And I’ll be damn proud to do it.”
