Fairness for Girls ballot initiative discussed at public hearing

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — On Oct. 14, a public hearing was held in Lincoln to speak about a constitutional amendment being seen on the ballot in November.

The Fairness for Girls, initiative 442, would ban transgender woman from joining female athletic teams. The ban would apply to every public school, some private schools and postsecondary education.

At the hearing, supporters argued that the ballot initiative protects female athletes and prevents loss of scholarships.

“This is about fairness, safety and opportunity,” Julie Slama, Fairness for Girls sponsor, said. “The roster spot, the medal, the scholarships that a girl earns. I’m asking you to protect it by voting yes this November.”

Opponents say the ban is discriminatory toward nonbinary and transgender students.

“I oppose initiative 442 for several reasons,” Rachel Tomlinson-Dick, Fairness for All representative, said. “First and foremost, I am an LGBTQ+ Nebraskan, and I support dignity and inclusion for the transgender community.”

The next hearing is today, focusing on ballot initiatives 440 and 441. These initiatives regard online sports wagering authorization and regulation purpose. The public hearing is at 6 p.m. hosted by Nebraska Public Media.