Noem weighing girls’ transgender sports ban amid protests
Associated Press— South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem on Thursday said she is still weighing whether to sign a bill that would ban transgender girls and women from female sports leagues, as transgender advocates rallied at the Capitol and college athletes pressured the NCAA to punish states that pass such laws. While Noem argued the bill is about “protecting women’s sports,” and does not single out transgender people, her decision to sign it into law could have far-reaching effects. Dennis Daugaard, a Republican, vetoed the bill after meeting with transgender people, who he said helped him see the issue “through their eyes.” Transgender advocates who demonstrated outside the governor’s mansion in Pierre on Thursday said they have been trying to get Noem’s attention, but so far have been unsuccessful. “She hasn’t responded at all.” While the bill would specifically target transgender women and girl athletes, Marty worried that it would affect the mental health of many transgender people, not just those who want to play in sports leagues that match their gender identity.