Republican Rep. Sandy Salmon filed an amendment to House File 847 that would have offered protection for Women’s Sports in Iowa. She spoke on the amendment, but then withdrew it from consideration.
“If we go down this road, girls and women will lose the privileges that we have accorded them in law for decades,” Salmon said of allowing biological boys to play girls’ sports. “This is unacceptable to Iowans. Contrary to what I’ve heard, this legislation is not discrimination and does not exclude anyone. Instead, it makes sure that there is a place for everyone.”
Legislation passed in Idaho and is being introduced or moving through 20 states this year. Salmon said she received a letter from a constituent in her district complaining about an incident.
“So it’s time for us to step up and protect the fairness and equal privileges that have been afforded girls and women for decades in our sports teams here in Iowa. That includes your daughters and your granddaughters.
“It’s time to step up for our girls and women, our daughters and granddaughters.”
Salmon then asked to withdraw the amendment.
“I thought there was good support during caucus discussion and leaders are interested and want to do more investigating they said,” Salmon said. “Some changes are needed for procedures to be conducted when a player’s sex is in dispute. I was glad to have this initial conversation as the bill did not get a committee hearing. I am hopeful we can have something better for next year.”
