The Kansas Legislature has voted to override a veto from Governor Laura Kelly on a bill that will ban transgender athletes from competing in women’s and girls’ sports.
The House voted Wednesday morning and the Senate vote was held later, with each chamber narrowly getting the two-thirds majority needed for an override.
Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach praised the Legislature for taking the action. In a press release, he said he would vigorously defend the law against any court challenges.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas called the override a “devastating blow to student athletics and basic fairness.” Executive Director Micah Kubic said the sports ban is not about protecting women’s sports, but it comes from gender discrimination, stereotyping and paternalism.
