New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu signs bill banning transgender athletes from school sports teams

Republican Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire has approved a controversial bill that prohibits transgender girls in grades 5-12 from participating in girls' sports teams that correspond to their gender identity. These measures align with those of nearly half of the nation's states. Sununu signed the bill into law on Friday, stating that it is aimed at maintaining fairness and safety in women's sports, as well as preserving the integrity and competitive balance in athletic competitions. The new law is set to take effect in 30 days.

The Bill's Provisions

The bill, which was passed by the Republican-led Legislature, mandates that schools categorize sports teams as either for girls, boys, or coed. Eligibility for participation will be determined based on the students' birth certificates "or other evidence." The supporters of the legislation argue that it is necessary to safeguard biological girls from the risk of injuries that may result from competing against larger and stronger transgender athletes.

Opposition and Criticism

The approval of the bill has sparked criticism and opposition from various quarters. Megan Tuttle, president of NEA-New Hampshire, a union representing public school employees, condemned Sununu's decision, emphasizing that public schools should provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Tuttle expressed disappointment in the governor for enacting a law that excludes students from athletic participation, which plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging necessary for the well-being of young people.

Further Restrictions

In addition to the sports ban, Sununu also approved another bill on Friday that prohibits gender-affirming surgeries for transgender minors. This new restriction is scheduled to come into effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The move to outlaw gender-affirming surgeries for transgender minors is a contentious one, particularly considering that such medical care has been available in the United States for over a decade and is supported by major medical associations. Despite the bipartisan support it garnered, this decision has also faced significant pushback.

Vetoed Measure

Conversely, Sununu rejected another proposal that sought to allow public and private entities to differentiate based on "biological sex" in multiperson bathrooms and locker rooms, as well as in athletic events and detention facilities. The governor pointed out that a law enacted in 2018 already prohibited discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and housing based on gender identity. He expressed concerns that the proposed measure aimed to address issues that have not arisen in New Hampshireconflict.

National Context

The debate around the participation of transgender athletes in sports has also been unfolding at the national level. In April, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics announced a policy prohibiting transgender women from competing in women's sports. This policy, approved by the organization's Council of Presidents, reinforces the irreversible from participating in women's sports. This policy, approved by the organization's Council of Presidents, reinforces the previous ban through a unanimous vote. Meanwhile, the states of West Virginia and Idaho are seeking a U.S. Supreme Court review of rulings that prevented the enforcement of their respective state laws that barred transgender athletes from competing in sports.

Looking Forward

The approval of the transgender sports ban in New Hampshire has ignited a national debate, prompting discussions on inclusivity in athletics and the rights of transgender individuals. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the implementation of these new state laws will impact the participation of transgender athletes in school sports and the broader implications for the LGBTQ+ community.