The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act is on its way to the Governor’s desk after the Senate voted 32-6 to concur with a House amendment. The lower chamber voted for it last week. The bill which bans transgender females from competing in female sports was vetoed by Governor John Bel Edwards last year. As for what’s next for the bill.
“Number one, he can veto it again and face an override session, he cannot sign it and let it become law, or he can sign it,” said political analyst Bernie Pinsonat.
The bill which bans transgender females from playing female sports in K-12 and college competitions was amended to remove the ban from intramural sports. Pinsonat said Edwards has said the amendment is significant.
“So maybe it gives the governor an out to say intramurals are removed and so it’s a better bill,” said Pinsonat.
But even with intramurals taken out, he said the legislation is unnecessary. But supporters of the legislation point to Lia Thomas, a biological male who won an NCAA swimming championship in female swimming.
And with just under two weeks left until the session ends, Pinsonat said the clock begins to tick once the governor acts. For example, if he rejects the legislation…
“Time is running out for them to be able to have a veto session within the session, it depends on who does what and when,” said Pinsonat.
Pinsonat expects the governor most likely will either sign the legislation or not sign the bill and it will become law, just without his written approval.
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