A group of Pennsylvania state legislators known as “Dads Defending Daughters” has criticized the House Education Committee’s decision to re-refer two bills aimed at regulating participation in women’s sports. The committee, led by a Democratic majority, moved House Bill 1849 and House Bill 158 to the House Judiciary Committee instead of voting on them.
The lawmakers say this action prevents a discharge resolution filed by House Republicans that would have forced a vote on the issue. Members of the group include Representatives Clint Owlett, Eric Davanzo, Joe D’Orsie, Jonathan Fritz, and Joe Hamm.
In a joint statement, the legislators said: “It’s disgraceful that House Democrats refuse to vote on an issue that would protect the rights of women and girl athletes to compete on a level playing field. Both bills sent to the House Judiciary Committee today deal with interscholastic sports policies, not civil or criminal issues typically handled by this committee.
“Apparently House Democrats are fine with our daughters being beaten out by biological males in sports specifically designated for women and girls. Apparently, they are OK with those same biological males changing in women’s locker rooms. Apparently, they are OK with female athletes being robbed of scholarships and other competitive opportunities because they aren’t being given the level playing field promised all those years ago when Title IV was adopted.
“Polls indicate 80% of people support polices that ensure fairness in women’s sports. So why are Democrats so insistent on not even bringing this bill up for a vote? The legislative gymnastics have to stop. Our girls – our daughters – deserve better.”
The lawmakers also pointed out that Senate Bill 9, another bill addressing fairness in women’s sports which passed the Senate with bipartisan support, was previously referred from the Education Committee to both the Health Committee and then to the Judiciary Committee where it remains.
