SC Minnesota News

Representative Erica Schwartz (R–Nicollet) responded to the Minnesota Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding girls’ sports, following a ruling that clarified the Minnesota Human Rights Act protects individuals based on transgender status. The court’s interpretation effectively prohibits women’s or girls’ sports divisions from excluding males based on sex.

“This morning’s ruling is a setback for fairness and safety in girls’ sports,” said Rep. Schwartz. “For more than 50 years, Title IX has guaranteed women and girls the right to compete on a level playing field. Thanks to the sacrifices of previous generations, female athletes have had the chance to develop their skills, earn scholarships, and grow through competition. Those opportunities now face an unprecedented challenge.”

Rep. Schwartz highlighted her support for House File 12 earlier in the year and stressed the importance of fair competition in sports. “Sports are about more than exercise—they teach hard work, perseverance, teamwork, and how to handle both victory and defeat with dignity. Those lessons only matter when the competition is fair. This ruling puts female athletes at a disadvantage, taking away championships, records, and in some cases, the safety they deserve.”

She referenced polling data indicating widespread public support for maintaining girls-only sports divisions. According to a New York Times survey, a majority of Americans—including a significant portion of Democrats—believe that girls’ sports should be reserved for girls. “Parents, coaches, and athletes overwhelmingly understand that fairness in competition is not controversial—it’s an expectation,” Rep. Schwartz said.

“House File 12 provides the common-sense protections our female athletes need,” she continued. “We must act now to ensure that girls in Minnesota continue to have equal opportunities to compete safely and fairly.”