PHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona House is debating a contentious proposal that would ban transgender student athletes from participating on the team that aligns with their gender identity.
The measure backed by majority Republicans is strongly opposed by Democrats and advocates for transgender youth.
Opponents called a news conference before Tuesday's debate started to denounce the measure.
Republican Rep. Nancy Barto's proposal is one of several making their way through GOP-controlled state legislatures this year intended to prevent female athletes from being forced to compete against biological males.
She says most people view the issue as one of basic fairness.
The debate appears likely to last well into the night.
