Tennessee Senate adopts resolution honoring Riley Gaines after floor debate on men in women’s sports

The Tennessee Senate adopted House Joint Resolution 33 on a recorded vote of 46-5 to honor Riley Gaines, a Sumner County swimmer and former member of the University of Kentucky women’s swim team.

Senator Hale introduced HJR 33, saying the measure — filed with Representative Garrett — recognizes Gaines for athletic achievement and for speaking publicly about competition in women’s sports. "Riley was forced to compete with a man in women's sports division in the NCAA," Senator Hale said on the floor.

The nut of the resolution and the floor debate centered on lawmakers’ view that male participation in women’s sports intrudes on women’s opportunities. "This is, to me, just unimaginable that we are imposing on women," Senator Hale said. He also referenced an executive order, saying, "I'm thankful for our president that did an executive order, disallowing this to take place." Hale said Gaines has traveled and spoken nationally and has received threats; "Riley got caught up 2 or 3 times where that she was threatened, physically threatened and had had to have protection," he said.

Senator Roberts seconded the resolution and praised Gaines’ conduct on the public stage, saying she "didn't seek the spotlight" but was "thrust into a situation where she had to do what she thought was the right thing." Roberts said Gaines has become an example to others.

The measure passed with a recorded count of 46 yes and 5 no. The clerk declared HJR 33 "adopted" after the tally and the motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

HJR 33 is a ceremonial resolution honoring and commending an individual. The resolution text and any additional actions tied to it were not included in the floor transcript beyond the remarks and the roll-call tally.

The Senate returned to other calendar and committee business after the vote.