Kansas Republicans override veto of trans athlete ban

Topeka, Kansas - Kansas Republicans overrode the governor's veto to enact a ban on transgender athletes from competing in sports according to their gender identity.

Kansas has become the latest state where Republicans have pushed through a bill to ban transgender athletes from participating on sports teams that correspond with their gender identity.
Kansas has become the latest state where Republicans have pushed through a bill to ban transgender athletes from participating on sports teams that correspond with their gender identity.  © Brandon Bell / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

The bill, known as HB 2238 or the "Fairness in Women's Sports Act," passed in Kansas after lawmakers voted 28-12 in the state Senate and 84-40 in the House to override a veto from Democratic Governor Laura Kelly.

"We all want a fair and safe place for our kids to play and compete. However, this bill didn't come from the experts at our schools, our athletes, or the Kansas State High School Activities Association. It came from politicians trying to score political points," Kelly explained in a statement after vetoing the bill.

"It's harmful to students and their families and it's bad for business," she added.

Joke of the Day for March 27, 2024: Get your funny on
Joke of the Day Joke of the Day for March 27, 2024: Get your funny on

Nevertheless, the Republican majority in the state legislature chose to move forward with the ban, which will bar transgender athletes from participating on girl's and women's sports teams from kindergarten through college.

The law is set to take effect on July 1.

Kansas lawmakers pass transgender bathroom bill

On Tuesday, Kansas lawmakers approved a bill to bar transgender people from using bathrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities that correspond with their gender identity.

The measure has been framed by supporters as a "Women's Bill of Rights."

Kelly is expected to reject that bill as well, though the margin of the measure's passage seems to suggest Republicans have the numbers to once again override a veto.

Cover photo: Brandon Bell / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

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