Idaho House panel OKs bill to ban transgender women athletes

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An Idaho legislative panel has advanced legislation preventing transgender women from participating in sports that align with their gender identity. The House State Affairs Committee approved the bill by Republican Representative Barbara Ehardt that applies to all sports teams sponsored by public schools, colleges, and universities. A girls’ or women’s team would not be open to a student who was born male, even if they identify as female. Ehardt says her measure is needed because athletes who are genetically male have physical advantages over females and, as a result, can limit female athletic, economic, and self-growth opportunities provided through sports. Bill opponents say it unconstitutionally discriminates against transgender girls and women and will subject female athletes to invasive tests so they can participate in sports. Kathy Griesmyer of the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho says her organization was prepared to take legal action should the measure become law. The bill now heads to the full House for consideration. (AP)