The "Stand with Women Act" (LB89) is sponsored by State Sen. Kathleen Kauth. At a press conference last week, both Kauth and Gov. Jim Pillen described provisions in the bill as "commonsense" protections for women and girls. The measure would (1) prohibit biological males from joining female sports teams; (2) require group restrooms and locker rooms in schools and state agencies to be designated for use by either males or females; and (3) prohibit individuals of one biological sex from using the restroom or locker room designated for use by the opposite biological sex.
"It is simple," the governor stated. "Only girls belong in girls' sports, and men do not belong in women's spaces."
AFN spoke with Nate Grasz, executive director of Nebraska Family Alliance. He is hopeful Nebraska will eventually be listed among 20 other states that have passed similar legislation.
"It would apply not only to schools but universities at the collegiate level, and also to state agencies," he explained. "We've seen examples in other states of horrible things that have happened because of policies that allow men to be housed with women, even in prison."
According to Grasz, his state legislators have put forward similar efforts over the past couple of years, but this year's is a bigger and better version. "We expect to see a pretty fierce filibuster and opposition from opponents to this measure," he notes. "Ultimately, we will need 33 votes to advance the bill."
The measure currently is filed with the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee in Lincoln.
Gaines, an Outkick contributor and former NCAA All-American swimmer at the Univ. of Kentucky, argues the bill should receive bipartisan support when it is brought up for a vote.
"This bill doesn't marginalize anyone, but instead protects everyone," she stated up learning about the bill. "Nebraska has led the way in defending female athletes' rights to compete fairly and safely. Now they're leading the way in protecting the opportunities, privacy, and safety of all women."
According to Grasz, Gov. Pillen has promised to sign the bill if it passes.
