February 6, 2025
Sen. Rita Sanders, Chairperson
Sen. Megan Hunt
Sen. Bob Andersen, Vice Chairperson
Sen. Dan Lonowski
Sen. John Cavanaugh
Sen. Dan McKeon
Sen. Dunixi Guereca
Sen. Dave Wordekemper
Chairwoman Sanders and members of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee:
The Lincoln Public Schools opposes LB89, the “Stand With Women Act” sponsored by Senator Kauth. Lincoln Public Schools opposes this proposed legislation on several grounds:
- First, LB89 proposes a wide variety of sweeping changes impacting public institutions and their treatment of individuals with respect to institutional norms and procedures. The Lincoln Public Schools has long valued the principle of local control, and has practices and procedures in place which provide for the safety and well-being of all students and individuals.
- LB89 is not consistent with Lincoln Public Schools commitments to equity and inclusiveness. The Lincoln Board of Education is committed to equity for students, staff, and stakeholders of the Lincoln Public Schools. Equity in education intentionally provides what each student needs to reach their individual potential. Lincoln Public Schools provides the appropriate levels of resources and support that result in equitable and measurable outcomes for all students regardless of their socio-economic status, race, national origin, ethnic background, culture, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, sexual orientation, gender, transgender, age, disability, mental, physical or linguistic ability or other protected status.
- The Lincoln Public Schools points to the efficacy of existing Gender Participation policies through the Nebraska School Activities Association. The NSAA has developed this policy to address the eligibility and participation of students in NSAA-sponsored athletics based upon gender and it has been an effective and functional model including its accompanying NSAA Transgender Student Participation Application Form.
For the above, stated reasons, Lincoln Public Schools is in opposition to LB89 and we request that you do not advance this bill.
Sincerely,
Korby Gibertson
625 South 14th Street
LINCOLN, NE 68508
District 0
Opponent Representing: Lincoln Public Schools
