WC Minnesota News

Rep. Mary Franson, a Republican legislator from Alexandria, issued a statement following the Minnesota Supreme Court's decision regarding participation of transgender athletes in powerlifting competitions. The court ruled that barring a transgender athlete, identified as a biological male, from competing in USA Powerlifting’s women’s division is considered “facially discriminatory” under the Minnesota Human Rights Act.

Franson expressed concern about the implications of the ruling for women’s sports in Minnesota. She stated, “This decision is a serious setback for fairness and safety in women’s sports. Allowing biological males to compete in girls’ and women’s divisions not only undermines the hard work and dedication of female athletes, but it also creates an uneven playing field that goes against the intent of Title IX. Female athletes across Minnesota have fought for decades to earn equal opportunities in sports, and rulings like this threaten to erase that progress.”

She highlighted existing legislative efforts aimed at addressing this issue: “There is legislation in the Minnesota House that would address this issue directly and ensure that girls’ sports remain fair, competitive, and safe. I strongly support these efforts and urge my colleagues to join in standing up for the rights of female athletes. Every girl deserves the chance to compete on an even playing field, and we owe it to them to protect the integrity of women’s sports in Minnesota.”

According to Franson, two bills—House File 12 and House File 1233—were introduced with provisions intended to clarify eligibility criteria for participation in girls’ sports but were blocked by House Democrats. Both bills are still available for consideration when lawmakers return on February 17, 2026.