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Senate adopts pared-down Stand With Women Act focusing on athletics after intense floor debate
Summary
After hours of debate, senators adopted a floor amendment that removed bathroom and locker-room mandates and retained language focused on preventing males from competing in female athletic categories; legislators cited fairness in competition and Title IX implications.
Senator Riepke introduced a floor amendment (AM11-38) that narrowed LB89 to focus on athletic competition; the amendment removed earlier bathroom and locker-room provisions. "I would not support this bill if it continued down the path of micromanaging bathroom access or policing locker rooms," Senator Riepke said, describing the amended bill as aimed squarely at preserving fairness in women's and youth sports.
Senator Kaut, a co-sponsor, said the bill clarifies statutory definitions and preserves opportunities for women and girls in athletics. "This is about defining male and female in our state statute," Kaut said, and emphasized the bill's intent to provide consistent guidance for schools. Supporters repeatedly framed LB89 as a protection for female athletes and Title IX opportunities; opponents called the measure discriminatory and urged lawmakers to consider impacts on transgender Nebraskans' mental health and privacy.
Floor votes were consequential: the Kaut/Riepke amendment (AM11-38/FA1138) was adopted by a 34-8 margin, and the body later invoked cloture and advanced the bill after further votes and debate. Other amendments to restore locker-room or bathroom provisions failed, and an attempt to bracket the bill was defeated. Sponsors said the revised bill will give school officials clearer rules for athletic eligibility while leaving separate privacy questions to local district policies.
