Minnesota State Wire

State Representative Natalie Zeleznikar, a Republican from Fredenberg Township, has reiterated her support for maintaining fairness in girls’ sports following the results of a federal investigation. The investigation concluded that both the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota State High School League violated Title IX by permitting students to participate in sports teams according to their gender identity.

“This decision reaffirms the fairness and safety Title IX was created to protect,” said Zeleznikar. “For decades, women and girls fought for the right to compete on a level playing field. That hard-won right has increasingly come under attack, but the vast majority of Minnesotans agree; boys should not compete in girls’ sports. I hope this ruling ensures every girl in Minnesota has the chance to compete fairly.”

Zeleznikar is also known as the chief author of House File 1233, which aims to bring Minnesota’s Human Rights Act into alignment with Title IX protections. The bill received full support from Republican legislators but did not advance due to opposition from Democrats. She stated her intention to introduce the legislation again if Governor Walz convenes a special session.