Gov. Kay Ivey has signed legislation into law that would ban transgender athletes from competing in sports designed for members of the opposite sex.
House Bill 261 (HB261), sponsored by State Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover), requires all public two-year and four-year institutions of higher education to prohibit biological males from participating in athletic teams or sports designated for females and vice versa.
The bill drew less debate and pushback than many lawmakers expected. However, some lawmakers did protest the legislation, claiming it excludes and ostracizes transgender individuals and opens up the state to potential litigation.
Last Wednesday, the House voted to concur with a minor Senate amendment and send the bill to Gov. Kay Ivey's desk for her signature.
On Tuesday, Ivey signed the bill, making it effective August 1.
“Look, if you are a biological male, you are not going to be competing in women’s and girls’ sports in Alabama,” Ivey said. “It’s about fairness, plain and simple.”
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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