RELEASE: Rep. Mary Franson Statement on Minnesota Supreme Court Ruling in Powerlifting CaseHeadline

Rep. Mary Franson Statement on Minnesota Supreme Court Ruling in Powerlifting CaseHeadline

Saint Paul, MN - Rep. Mary Franson, R-Alexandria, released the following statement in response to the Minnesota Supreme Court’s ruling that preventing a transgender athlete, a biological male, from competing in USA Powerlifting’s women’s division is “facially discriminatory” under the Minnesota Human Rights Act:

“This decision is a serious setback for fairness and safety in women’s sports. Allowing biological males to compete in girls’ and women’s divisions not only undermines the hard work and dedication of female athletes, but it also creates an uneven playing field that goes against the intent of Title IX. Female athletes across Minnesota have fought for decades to earn equal opportunities in sports, and rulings like this threaten to erase that progress.

There is legislation in the Minnesota House that would address this issue directly and ensure that girls’ sports remain fair, competitive, and safe. I strongly support these efforts and urge my colleagues to join in standing up for the rights of female athletes. Every girl deserves the chance to compete on an even playing field, and we owe it to them to protect the integrity of women’s sports in Minnesota.”

Both House File 12 and House File 1233 would have clarified the issue at hand, but were blocked by House Democrats. These bills remain on the table and ready for action when the House reconvenes on February 17, 2026.

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