On Thursday, the Biden administration introduced a proposed rule change that would prevent the categorical exclusion of transgender athletes from participating in sports under the Department of Education. The proposed change would ensure compliance with Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in educational institutions receiving federal funding.
South Dakota’s Governor Kristi Noem had a simple but strong response: “President Biden, we’ll see you in Court.”
South Dakota will not allow this to stand. We will lead. We will defend our laws. Only girls will play girls’ sports.
President Biden, we’ll see you in Court. pic.twitter.com/Irv03aMEp9
— Kristi Noem (@KristiNoem) April 6, 2023
Noem has been known for her stance against transgender athletes’ participation in sports. In March 2021, she issued an executive order banning transgender girls (biological males) from participating in women’s sports in South Dakota schools.
This February, Noem also signed a bill that banned ‘gender-affirming’ medical treatment for transgender individuals under the age of 18. The legislation prohibits minors from receiving prescriptions for puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and gender-affirming surgery. This year, over two dozen conservative states, including South Dakota, have considered implementing similar measures.
Biden’s proposed rule change on transgender athletes’ participation in sports will likely face opposition from other politicians and conservative states.