Nebraska Legislature Passes Bill Restricting Transgender Student Athletes: What Comes Next

A significant shift just hit Nebraska’s education and athletics landscape. On May 28, 2025, the Legislature passed LB 89—widely referred to as the “Stand With Women Act.” With a 33–16 vote, this bill mandates that student-athletes in both K–12 schools and colleges compete on sports teams that align with their sex assigned at birth—not their gender identity. The governor’s signature is expected any day now, given Jim Pillen’s vocal and ongoing support for the measure.

If that sounds like a big deal, that’s because it is.

So, What Exactly Does This Law Say?

In short: the law defines “male” and “female” for the purpose of school sports based on biological sex, with eligibility tied to what’s listed on a student’s original birth certificate. That means transgender girls will not be permitted to play on girls’ teams, and transgender boys won’t be allowed on boys’ teams. This overrides the Nebraska School Activities Association’s previous policy, which allowed for case-by-case participation based on gender identity.

Supporters Say It’s About Fairness. Critics Call It Targeted Exclusion.

Proponents of the law frame it as protecting opportunities for cisgender girls in athletics—ensuring “a level playing field,” as Governor Pillen put it. Some lawmakers, like Senator Loren Lippincott, argued that this is about opening doors for female athletes, not closing them on others.

But that framing doesn’t sit well with many advocates, parents, and legal professionals. Senator Megan Hunt called it out as political theater, and Senator John Fredrickson highlighted the law’s real human impact—especially on kids already vulnerable to isolation and discrimination. Organizations like the ACLU of Nebraska and OutNebraska have condemned the legislation, warning that it sends a clear message to transgender youth: you don’t belong here.

And the mental health implications are serious. Studies, including research from The Trevor Project, consistently show that transgender youth already experience significantly higher rates of bullying, depression, and suicide. Excluding them from school sports—something that plays a huge role in confidence, community, and identity—can make an already difficult environment feel even more hostile.

How This Might Affect Students, Families, and Schools

Schools will now be tasked with aligning their policies to the new law, and that’s not just a simple memo to staff. Some districts had taken steps toward inclusive practices, and reversing course could create confusion, tension, and new legal liabilities.

Families of transgender students may be left trying to figure out where this leaves their children—legally, socially, and emotionally. Some may seek legal advice to understand how this state law interacts with federal protections under Title IX. Others may need support from mental health professionals, advocacy organizations, or community groups.

This isn’t just about what team a student can join. It’s about whether they feel seen, safe, and supported in their own schools.

Where Does It Go From Here?

Nebraska now joins more than 20 other states with similar restrictions in place. But this legal and political story isn’t over. There’s growing tension between these state laws and federal interpretations of Title IX, and legal challenges are already in motion across the country. Depending on how courts rule, Nebraska’s law could end up being tested—and possibly overturned.

Meanwhile, we’re likely to see responses from advocacy groups, school boards, families, and students themselves. Expect conversations, protests, policy reviews, and a continued push for clarity—not just on what’s allowed, but on what’s right.

If You’re Trying to Make Sense of This—You’re Not Alone.

If you’re a parent, educator, or student grappling with what LB 89 means for your rights or responsibilities, you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Whether you need help understanding what’s changing, or you’re facing a specific challenge tied to this new law, we’re ready to help you move forward. Contact us at 402-259-0059 or zach@zandersonlaw.com.