PA Bill Would Ban Transgender Athletes From Girls' School Sports

Pittsburgh PA

07 April, 2021

2:12 PM

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HARRISBURG, PA — Five state lawmakers who feel that transgender girls are provided a competitive advantage in women's sports are attempting to limit their participation in those activities. Representatives Barbara Gleim of Cumberland County, Barbara White of Philadelphia County, Dawn Keefer of York County, Valerie Gaydos of Allegheny County and Stephanie Boworicz of Clinton and Centre counties are sponsoring the Save Women's Sports Act. The legislation would ensure that women are not forced to compete against biological males playing on women's sports teams. "The opportunity for girls to compete on a level playing field must be protected," the legislators wrote in a memorandum to colleagues. " Title IX was designed to stop discrimination and create equal athletic opportunities for women. However, allowing biological males to compete in girls' sports reverses nearly 50 years of advancement for women. "There are inherent differences between men and women and these differences remain cause for celebration, but not for denigration of the members of either sex or for artificial constraints on an individual's opportunity. These 'inherent differences' range from hormonal differences to physiological differences." Gov. Tom Wolf said he would veto what he labeled a "discriminatory ban" if the bill eventually reaches his desk. "To Pennsylvania's trans youth: You belong," Wolf stated on social media. "You are valued. Participate in the school activities that make you happiest. I'll be cheering you on."