Maine Senate Democrats defeat harmful anti-trans bill, stand firm to protect LGBTQ+ youth
Senate President Daughtry and Democratic Senators release statements
AUGUSTA – In a decisive show of unity, Maine Senate Democrats voted down LD 1134, a bill that sought to ban transgender girls from participating in school sports and using facilities that match their gender identity. The bill was defeated 21-14. One Republican joined the Democrats in the vote.
“LD 1134 is not about fairness or safety—it is a targeted, harmful attack on transgender kids. This bill doesn’t protect girls, it would police gender, invite bullying, and put all students at risk of invasive scrutiny and discrimination,” said Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick). “This legislation strips communities of the ability to support their students with compassion and care. Let’s be clear: this isn’t about girls’ sports. If we cared about girls in athletics, we’d fund programs, fix facilities, and ensure equity in pay for coaches—not single out a handful of trans kids for exclusion. To every transgender student in Maine: you belong, you are not alone, and we will fight for your right to live, learn, and play as your authentic self.”
The rejection of LD 1134 reflects Senate Democrats’ commitment to ensuring that every student in Maine, regardless of gender identity, is treated with dignity and respect. Lawmakers emphasized that policies rooted in fear and misinformation have no place in Maine schools.
“Having trans students treated unfairly, and segregated by school and community leaders, and elected officials perpetuates outdated and dangerous stereotypes,” said Senator Mike Tipping (D-Orono). “The proliferation of disinformation and myths like these harms all kids and erodes vital relationships that school communities depend on to ensure that all students feel safe at school, so they can grow, learn, and thrive.”
Building on that sentiment, Senator Stacy Brenner (D-Scarborough) spoke from personal experience, underscoring the stakes behind the vote.
“We all want our kids to be happy, healthy, and learn the values of hard work, perseverance, and collaboration. We want them to know that our communities are strengthened when we lean on one another. We can all recall the precariousness that accompanies adolescence and the profound desire to fit in. I am the mother of two daughters and aunt of two nieces, one who is trans —Believe me, I have seen it up close,” said Senator Brenner. “Passing this bill would contradict the character of our state and the values we instill in our children. It flies in the face of the way I chose to lead, with kindness, inclusion, a fierce desire to support radical self autonomy and human rights, most especially for children.”