State Rep. Nancy DeBoer, R-Holland, attended a press conference today with fellow Republican women to denounce the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) for allowing males to participate in female sports.

“There is no question that males and females are different biologically,” said DeBoer. “Our girls deserve the right to fair competition. Allowing boys to compete in girls’ sports is not only unfair—it undermines the integrity of female athletics and puts our girls at risk.”

House Resolution 40, which passed on the House floor yesterday, calls on the MHSAA to align their eligibility rules with the federal order, Executive Order 14201, to keep the integrity of competition and safety for our female athletes. The MHSAA had delayed changing their policies to comply with Executive Order 14201.

“I have spoken with Riley Gaines who has experienced this issue first-hand,” said DeBoer. She watched as her male competitor, who had exactly tied with her in the women’s swimming competition, was handed the only first place trophy. We cannot allow another young woman’s dedication and hard work to be overshadowed by unfair policies. I am proud to stand with fellow women in supporting to keep the integrity of girls’ sports and call on the MHSAA to re-think their take on this issue.”