CNN
–
Senate Democrats on Monday blocked a GOP-led bill banning trans athletes from women and girls’ sports in federally funded schools and educational institutions.
The failure to advance the bill highlights the narrow marginal limits in Republican Congress despite the management of both rooms. The party still needs support from Senate Democrats for most laws to clear the 60 vote threshold. Party Line voted 51-45.
The Senate vote is as GOP-led states across the country continue to file anti-trans measures, including legislation aimed at preventing trans students from playing on sports teams that match their gender identity.
“We will never stop being”: Trans “Euphoria” star’s gender has been changed with newly issued passport
Republicans attacked transgender issues in a competitive cycle during their final election cycle, including top presidential tickets. In the aftermath of President Donald Trump’s White House victory, some Democrats said their party must do more to address the concerns of potential voters.
The GOP-led House passed its own version of the law in January with a 218-206 vote, with two Democrats voting in favor and one Democrat “now” voted.
The bill aims to amend federal law to require that “gender be recognized solely on the basis of reproductive biology and genetics at birth” with the aim of determining compliance with athletics title IX, according to legislative texts.
Title IX prohibits discrimination based on gender in educational programs or activities that receive federal funding and applies to schools and other educational institutions.
Republicans argue that their participation could result in limiting opportunities for others, as trans women retain more physical benefits than cisgender women in sports.
Trans Bodybuilders share their journey in new films
Democrats say policies that restrict trans athletes from participating in team sports will add to the discrimination faced by trans people, particularly to the trans youth. And they argue that Republicans are seeking to undermine the rights of LGBTQ students by moving the bill forward.
Senate Republicans have 53 seats. Usually, that means at least seven Democrats will need to vote for Republicans and move forward with the filibuster-eligible bill to reach the 60-vote threshold.
