The Minnesota Supreme Court issued a ruling yesterday in the case of a transgender powerlifter. In 2018 a transgender powerlifter was denied entry into two women’s competitions and subsequently sued the organization, arguing discrimination. The ruling stated this was discrimination and that "USA Powerlifting's policy at the time of the decision was to categorically exclude transgender women from competing in the women's division.”

“Yesterday’s decision was incredibly disappointing to see – it’s undeniable that this will hurt girls and their safe access to women’s sports,” said Senator Karin Housley (R-Stillwater). “This discussion has never been about denying access or excluding any athlete – it has always been about empowering and protecting women and girls and giving everyone the opportunity to compete in the fairest way possible.

“Many sports are incredibly physical – women and girls should be free to compete in those sports, knowing that they are protected in a safe environment, and not competing against those who have an undeniable physical advantage. This ruling completely undermines that and will put women and girls at risk.”

Last session, Housley authored a bill to create an Exemption for Women’s Athletics in the Human Rights Act, stating that sex shall be determined based on a person’s reproductive biology, and women’s athletics should be exclusionary to anyone who is male, irrespective of their gender identity.

“I introduced that bill because we don’t want to limit anyone’s access to competitive sports, we just want to ensure young girls and women feel safe and protected in the sports they choose to play. I will continue to champion this effort in the upcoming legislative session," finished Housley.