Utah Legislature countermands Governor’s veto of Trans sports bill

The Utah Legislature has voted on Friday to countermand Gov. Spencer J. Cox’s veto of a bill that would prevent trans athletes to participate in female sports.

The bill which was hailed by women across the country prevented trans athletes to identify as women and participate in women’s sports. Women have been protesting against what they call an attack on female sports across the country since controversial trans athlete Lia Thomas has been making rounds by setting new records.

The Republican-controlled House first voted 56-18 to countermand Gov. Cox’s veto and then the Senate approved the reversal in a 21-8 vote.

Gov. Cox, a Republican himself, had refused to sign the bill after it was approved by the House and Senate. His refusal prompted the Legislature to overturn his veto through a supermajority.

In a lengthy statement, Gov. Cox cited “last minute” changes to the bill that would “bankrupt” the state’s Athletic Association. He also added that it would be a win “politically” if he just signed the bill, but he “tried to do what [he] feel[s] is the right thing.”

Eight lawmakers from both bodies also reportedly sided with the Governor and voted against the reversal of his veto. The bill’s supporters in both the House and public are hailing it as the primary measure to “preserve women’s sports.”