Commonwealth Policy Center

State Rep. Josie Raymond (D-Louisville) told her fellow legislators that “if the idea of trans children makes you uncomfortable, too bad. Toughen up.” But Raymond didn’t say this to University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines who had to compete against a biological male—Lia Thomas in the 200-meter freestyle. Riley said, “I know I speak for the majority of female athletes across every NCAA college sport when I say biological males should not be competing against women. It’s crucial for the NCAA to open its eyes and recognize the irrefutable damage being done to everything Title IX stands for: “equity, fairness and creating opportunities for women to succeed at an elite level and in life.” In the end, the Kentucky State legislature stood with Riley by overriding Gov. Beshear’s veto and upholding the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act.