Dakota Times

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Supreme Court determined that the state's Human Rights Act permits transgender women—individuals assigned male at birth who identify as female—to participate in women's and girls' athletics. The ruling came from a case involving a transgender athlete who was barred from competing in USA Powerlifting’s women’s division. The court found this exclusion to be “facially discriminatory” under state law.

All current justices on the Minnesota Supreme Court were appointed by Democratic governors, including four named by Governor Tim Walz.

State Representative Drew Roach (R-Coates) criticized the decision, stating: "Talk about complete nonsense." He argued that Title IX guarantees fair competition for women and girls at the federal level and questioned whether Minnesota's public accommodation statute should override those protections. According to Roach, "It should be common sense that if you were born as a male, and want to play sports, you will play in boys or men’s competitions."

Roach cited a New York Times poll indicating that approximately 80% of respondents believe girls’ sports should be reserved for girls, with 67% of Democrats agreeing.

In response to the court's decision, Roach called for legislative action through the Preserving Girls Sports Act. The proposal would require that only students identified as female may participate in school athletic teams designated for girls or women. In cases of dispute, a physician’s statement confirming sex based on anatomy, testosterone levels, and chromosomal analysis would be required.

Roach emphasized the need for bipartisan support: "The key will be finding one – just one – Democrat to help House Republicans move this bill forward." He noted that with an even split between parties in the Minnesota House, passing such legislation would require cooperation from at least one Democratic member.

He concluded his statement by questioning whether any Democrats would support these measures or if sex-based distinctions in school sports could soon disappear in Minnesota.