Rep. Kelly statement as House Republicans insert transgender athlete ban into name, image and likeness bill
State Rep. Brigid Kelly (D-Cincinnati) today issued a statement after House Republicans amended the collegiate name, image and likeness bill, Senate Bill 187, to effectively ban transgender athletes from participating in high school and collegiate sports.
“On the same day—and in the same bill—that we removed outdated name, image and likeness regulations that for decades have worked against collegiate athletes, Ohio Republicans inserted a divisive, draconian ban on transgender women and girls from participating in sports in Ohio. This extreme amendment is based in misinformation, fear and bigotry. Sports should be welcoming, safe places for all to play the games they love—not a battlefield for outdated and dangerous ideologies that will harm trans Ohioans.”