TOPEKA —Kansas Governor Laura has once again vetoed a ban on transgender athletes in women's sports. However, lawmakers may have the votes to override the veto.
In a statement from her office Friday afternoon, Kelly said, “We all want a fair and safe place for our kids to play and compete."
“That’s why I support the Kansas State High School Activities Association, which was set up to ensure nobody has an unfair advantage on the playing field. The Legislature should let the Association do its job."
“Let’s be clear about what this bill is all about – politics. It won’t increase any test scores. It won’t help any kids read or write. It won’t help any teachers prepare our kids for the real world. Here’s what this bill would actually do: harm the mental health of our students. That’s exactly why Republican governors have joined me in vetoing similar bills.
“This bill would also reverse the progress we’ve made in recruiting businesses and creating jobs. It would send a signal to prospective companies that Kansas is more focused on unnecessary and divisive legislation than becoming a place where young people want to work and raise a family.
Kelly vetoed two previous versions of the ban.
On March 9, the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature gave final approval of the ban and appear to have the votes to override the veto.
The state Senate voted 28-11 to approve the bill, which would impose the ban for K-12, college and club sports, starting July 1. In February, the House approved the bill 82-40.