Hello from St. Paul,
A recent lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against the State of Minnesota has once again brought the issue of fairness and safety in girls sports to the forefront.
At issue: why Minnesota continues to allow biological boys to compete in girls sporting events.
The justice department notes Minnesota is violating the federal Title IX law, which ensures fairness and safety for female student athletes. In response, the Minnesota House recently debated the Preserving Girls Sports Act which would end the illegal practice by prohibiting boys from playing in girls’ sports in Minnesota. I voted yes on the bill.
Title IX gives girls and women the right to equal opportunity in athletic competitions. Allowing biological males to compete in girls’ sports destroys that opportunity.
The Preserving Girls Sports Act ensures only students of the female sex may participate in an elementary or secondary school athletic team or sport that an educational institution has restricted on the basis of sex to women or girls.
It’s not controversial to say boys and girls are born differently. This is why we have boys and girls divisions in sports. It is senseless to allow biological males to participate in girls’ sports and potentially trample their chance at success.
The bill received a full vote of the Minnesota House on April 7. All 67 Republicans voted for the proposal, and all 66 Democrats voted against it. Because 68 votes are needed for legislation to be approved in the Minnesota House, the Preserving Girls Sports Act failed to pass by one vote.
MINNESOTANS FOR HEALTH AND PARENTAL RIGHTS RALLY
Hundreds of people from around the state descended on the Capitol this week to participate in the Minnesotans for Health and Parental Rights rally. I was fortunate to have been able to speak at the event.
At this time when personal freedoms are being challenged, it’s important to support those who are trying to make the best decisions for their families. MHPR connects people to resources on health, parenting, providers and other products, and members visit the Capitol once a year to share their concerns.
LOCAL VISITS
I was pleased to have Nobles County officials on hand to support my legislation that would issue bonding proceeds for a Reading sewer project.
The bill was heard in the House Capital Investment Committee.
Have a good weekend,
Marj