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House sustains veto on HB 396 after hours of debate over biological classification
Summary
Lawmakers debated HB 396, a measure to confine certain classifications to 'biological sex.' Supporters said it protects fair competition and safety in some athletics; critics warned the bill is vague and risks privacy and litigation. The House failed to override the governor's veto.
The House considered the governor's veto of House Bill 396, a short statutory change that would limit some discrimination and classification rules to an individual's "biological" sex in narrowly described situations. Supporters described the bill as protecting fairness in sports and sex-segregated facilities; Representative Howell (floor recognition noted) urged colleagues to "support the override," citing competitive advantages and safety concerns for girls in some athletics.
Opponents pushed back on multiple fronts. Representative Tor read the governor's veto message and argued that HB 396 "is an invasion of privacy at its core" and that the bill’s undefined term "biological" raises practical and legal questions. Members referenced related litigation stemming from earlier legislation and warned the House against enacting a law that invites further legal challenges.
Speakers described vivid examples from hearings: one account recalled a 12-year-old in Milford subjected to taunting during changing-room incidents, while others noted testimony from transgender residents who urged the House to consider harm and dignity. Several members said committee consideration had been extensive; others said the bill had not received sufficient debate in committee.
The Constitution requires a two-thirds majority to override a gubernatorial veto. After extended floor debate and a roll-call vote, the House did not reach the necessary threshold and the governor's veto on HB 396 was sustained.
