MADISON – Today, two Republican legislators in Wisconsin introduced bills that would discriminate against transgender and nonbinary student athletes in organized school sports. LRB 3855 and LRB 3848 would prohibit students from participating in youth sports consistent with their gender identity. Members of the Wisconsin Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus released the following statement:
“We strongly condemn these bills, and any legislation that attacks LGBTQ+ youth in Wisconsin. Studies have shown that participating in youth sports can lead to lifelong, positive impacts on a child’s physical, mental, emotional, and social health. In addition to helping students stay fit and build physical activity into their lives, youth sports allow students to develop deep and lasting friendships with their peers. Access to youth sports is crucially important to every student’s success, and all young people deserve the opportunity to participate in youth sports consistent with their gender identity.
“While these bills will not become law in Wisconsin, we also acknowledge the harm caused by their introduction. A 2022 nationwide survey of LGBTQ+ youth by the Trevor Project found that 86% of transgender and nonbinary youth reported negative impacts to their mental health from anti-trans bills like these.
“To transgender and nonbinary youth in Wisconsin: the Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus, our Democratic legislative colleagues, and our Governor will never stop fighting for you. We will ensure that these bills will never become law.”
