The Nassau County Legislature has passed a controversial ban on transgender athletes, prohibiting transgender women and girls from participating in women’s sports at county-owned facilities. The vote, which passed 12-5 along party lines, followed the reintroduction of the bill earlier this month. County Executive Bruce Blakeman initially issued an executive order for the ban, which was struck down by a judge in May for lacking legislative approval. The new law affects over 100 public facilities, including parks and pools, but does not restrict transgender boys and men from competing on male teams.
The ban has sparked significant backlash from civil rights groups and local residents. Julie Grey-Owens of Gender Equality New York criticized the legislation as discriminatory, while Dolores Covirgu, the mother of a transgender child, expressed deep hurt over the ban. The New York Civil Liberties Union, representing the Roller Rebels, a local roller derby team that includes trans women, has vowed to continue their legal fight against the legislation.
Proponents of the ban, including Blakeman, argue it is necessary to ensure fair competition and safety for women athletes. However, opponents contend that it promotes discrimination and private interests over public good. Transgender athlete Brittan Hardgers emphasized the importance of family structure and community support for transgender individuals, countering claims that the ban is about fairness in sports.
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