The proposal, although framed as a compromise, failed to gain traction among LGBTQ advocates or social conservatives. LGBTQ advocates took issue not only with Republican politicians appointing commission members, but also the evaluation criteria, which included body measurements such as hip-to-knee ratio.
Republican lawmakers said only an outright ban could preserve fairness and safety in women’s sports. In the final hours before the Legislature was set to adjourn earlier this month, they amended the commission proposal to include a ban on transgender athletes in girls leagues.
While the measure didn’t originally pass with veto-proof majorities, its supporters said earlier this week they have since swayed enough Republican lawmakers to ensure an override during a primary season where many moderate lawmakers are facing challenges from the right.
Lawmakers anticipate that court challenges could delay their proposal’s implementation, similar to bans that have been enjoined in Idaho and West Virginia. Utah’s policy would revert to the commission if courts block a ban and rule that it violates civil rights and equal protection.
The looming threat of a lawsuit worries school districts and the Utah High School Athletic Association, which has said it lacks the funds to defend the policy in court. On Friday, lawmakers are expected to discuss amending the bill and directing the state to underwrite potential lawsuits. A draft bill released on Thursday would allocate taxpayer dollars toward legal fees and potential damages.
This article originally appeared on APNews.com.
