In Lincoln, Nebraska, a contentious bill has moved past the first round of debate in the state legislature, stirring significant discussions and emotions. The legislation would prohibit transgender students from utilizing bathrooms, locker rooms, and participating in sports teams that align with their gender identity. However, it progressed with a condition attached.
Senator Merv Riepe played a pivotal role in this advancement after initially obstructing a similar proposal last year. On Tuesday, he agreed to lend his crucial support, allowing the bill to overcome a filibuster. Nevertheless, this support is contingent upon an amendment he plans to introduce. The amendment seeks to strip out the provisions related to bathroom and locker room access, retaining only the sports participation ban. “They have committed to it,” said Riepe of the bill’s main sponsors. “They know I will block it in the next stage if they don’t comply.”
The bill, championed by Senator Kathleen Kauth from Omaha, is a revival of previous efforts she has made over the years. In 2023, it was introduced as a counterpart to another measure by Kauth that aimed to limit gender-affirming healthcare for minors—a bill that successfully passed and was enacted. In contrast, last year’s version, which included both bathroom and sports bans, didn’t progress beyond committee stages.
The previous attempt at passing the bill was thwarted during a filibuster when Riepe and Senator Tom Brandt, another Republican, aligned with Democrats and an independent to block its passage. However, this year has seen a shift in strategy and support. Notably, the bill has gained the backing of Republican Governor Jim Pillen, who made it one of his legislative priorities and branded it as the “Stand With Women” act.
Supporters of the proposed legislation argue it’s crucial for safeguarding women’s spaces and ensuring fairness in women’s sports by preventing competition from transgender women, considered potentially stronger or faster. “This isn’t about fairness,” argued Republican Senator Loren Lippincott, saying that allowing transgender women to compete in women’s sports would lead to setbacks for female athletes.
Opponents, however, view the bill as a discriminatory attack on a vulnerable demographic already facing significant challenges and harassment. Criticism was also directed at the notion of providing protection from transgender individuals. “As a woman, I don’t need protection from transgender women,” said Senator Wendy DeBoer. “If I need protection at all, it’s from cisgender men.”
During debates, Senator Kauth was noted for her forceful defense, occasionally using language deemed offensive by transgender communities. “If you define women as men who believe they are women, you’re incorrect,” Kauth declared, reiterating her stance by stating, “A trans woman is a man.”
The debate wasn’t without public protest; albeit more subdued compared to past demonstrations. Protesters marched silently outside the legislative chamber, as only about 30 supporters wearing “Stand With Women” t-shirts observed proceedings from a viewing balcony. Following the vote, audible dissent came from at least one onlooker who shouted, “Shame on you! Shame on you guys!”