BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO/PRAIRIE PUBLIC) – The North Dakota House passed a bill that would require schools to designate their athletic team for male, female, or coed participation based on biological sex.
Those speaking in favor of the bill argued it is about women’s rights and opportunities.
“When allowing a biological male to compete against biological females, we are giving the opportunity to compete and win to that biological male,” Rep. Scott Louser (R-Minot) said. “What we continue to fail to recognize is that, in doing so, we are taking away and removing that opportunity for that female athlete.”
Opponents, such as Democratic Rep. Jayme Davis of Rolette, said schools already have requirements for trans athletes that level the playing field.
“If those who are transgender compete and win, it’s because they put in the work, just like everyone else,” Davis said. “That is what the science and lived experience show.”
The bill passed with 78-15.
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