Colorado and Washington voters face ballot measures on transgender rights

Voters in Colorado and Washington are set to decide on ballot initiatives regarding transgender rights. In Colorado, Proposition 135 seeks to prohibit medical procedures that alter the biological sex characteristics of minors in response to their gender perception. If passed, the measure would also ban the use of government funds or health insurance to pay for such surgeries.

In both states, activists have bypassed legislatures to place measures on the ballot that would restrict transgender women and girls from participating in female sports competitions. While elected officials in these Democratic-leaning states have previously rejected such bans, supporters believe the initiatives could serve as a testing ground for similar efforts nationwide.

Polling indicates a divided landscape; a Quinnipiac University poll found that approximately 70% of registered voters believe transgender women and girls should not compete on female teams, while about 25% support their inclusion. The outcomes of these votes are being closely watched as they may influence future policy and legal precedents regarding gender identity and sports participation.