A federal judge in New Hampshire has granted temporary permission for a transgender girl to participate in her high school soccer team, along with another student, as they challenge a state ban. Parker Tirrell, aged 15, and Iris Turmelle, aged 14, initiated a lawsuit aiming to overturn the recently signed “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act” by Republican Governor Chris Sununu. Tirrell urgently sought approval to join soccer practice, which the judge granted just in time on Monday with expectations of success in the case. The judge has set a timeline of 14 days for a hearing on a more comprehensive motion to prevent the enforcement of the law during the lawsuit proceedings.
The lawsuit argues that the prohibition violates constitutional rights and federal laws by unfairly obstructing educational opportunities and discriminating against transgender individuals like Tirrell and Turmelle. Judge Landya McCafferty raised concerns about how the law applies to Tirrell, considering there is no dispute over her lack of physical advantage due to medical treatments. McCafferty acknowledged the irreparable harm Tirrell would face without the injunction, meeting the criteria for urgent relief, though arguments against it were presented by the state attorney.
The attorney representing the state contended that missing soccer practice did not justify emergency relief, while the girls’ lawyer emphasized the long-lasting negative impact. The attorney from GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision, calling the law unjust and a violation of transgender girls’ rights in New Hampshire. This case is part of broader debates over transgender rights, especially concerning young individuals, as many states led by Republicans have imposed restrictions on transgender health care and participation in various activities.