LINCOLN —Nebraska legislative committees this week narrowly advanced two contentious bills: one (LB 730) that would require bathrooms, locker rooms and similar group facilities in K-12 schools, colleges and state buildings to be designated strictly as “male” or “female,” and another (LB 732) that would ban puberty blockers and cross-sex hormone treatments for minors and prohibit such care via telehealth. Supporters, led by State Sen. Kathleen Kauth, argue the proposals protect privacy and safety, but neither measure appears to have the 33 votes needed to overcome opposition during full-Legislature debate, including from key swing Republican State Sen. Merv Riepe. Omaha and Lincoln public schools have opposed the bathroom bill, and no senator chose the gender care ban as a legislative “priority,” likely ending its path for 2026.

Critics, including moderate senators and LGBTQ advocates, have pushed back, with some lawmakers saying the bathroom bill isn’t necessary and questioning how enforcement would work. Advocates for transgender Nebraskans voiced concern about the impact of the gender care restrictions and bathroom designations, and opponents of LB 732 have indicated they would try to kill it even if it reaches the floor. As scheduling for debate remains uncertain, supporters say they may revisit the proposals in future sessions if they fall short this year.

For the full article, click HERE.