On June 23, 1972 Title IX became ensconced in federal civil rights law. That law was historic in its provisions honoring and protecting the abilities and achievements of women in their own divisions of competitive sports. Prior to that time, females were not offered the opportunities to compete in anything other than informal activities resulting in a lack equipment, resources, and scholarships.
Since its passage, Title IX has made a way for women to be inspired by the high achievement of other women. Educational and competitive opportunities have been opened up through scholarships and tournaments. The 38th Assembly District’s own Lady L-Cats from Lake Mills would not have had the chance to enjoy their phenomenal accomplishment, securing a state title without the passage of Title IX. The 38th Assembly District’s own Kaylee would not have had the opportunity to secure a WIAA State Title in gymnastics this past weekend without Title IX.
Now, in a fractured, well-meaning attempt at inclusion, women’s achievements have once again been put at great risk of loss. Biological females are losing opportunities at titles, records, scholarships, and even participation. Additionally, by ignoring the scientific, biological fact that males have higher bone density, greater muscle mass, and often greater height, women are being put in physical danger of greater injury in competition. While the NCAA sets the standard that a biological male may participate in female sports after a year of testosterone-suppressing drugs, there are no hormonal levels or guidelines set in order to compete.
Parents and athletes throughout the 38th Assembly District who have devoted countless hours to supporting fair competition and athletic excellence have come to Rep. Dittrich asking, “Representative, what are you going to do about this?”
So, at the beginning of Women’s History Month, it is Rep. Dittrich's honor to stand with her female colleagues, especially Senator Kathy Bernier and Representative Janel Brandtjen, in introducing Wisconsin’s “Protecting Women in Sports Act”.
ASSEMBLY GOP LETTER TO GOV EVERS
Governor Evers has been granted millions in additional federal education relief funds. This week, Rep. Dittrich joined her colleagues in requesting that these funds be directed towards schools that have been providing the most in-person instruction.
REP. DITTRICH INTRODUCES SCHOOL CHOICE EXPANSION AND WIAA BILL
The Assembly Committee on Education heard two pieces of legislation authored by Rep. Dittrich.
Assembly Bill 59 expands eligibility for students in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program due to income restrictions and prohibits school districts from denying full-time student applications from non-resident districts. Wisconsin has successfully offered school choice to residents for over 25 years. However, there are currently income eligibility limits set at 220% federal poverty level (FPL). This bill would expand that eligibility to 300% FPL, allowing more students the opportunity to receive a quality education while continuing to save taxpayers.
Additionally, AB 59 would expand the number of available options for applicants, including outside their resident districts, as long as both parents and respective school boards agree that attending the out of district school is in the best interest of the child. If ever there was a time where Wisconsin crave school choice in greater numbers than ever, it is now. Closures and difficulties with online learning have left children in educational peril. Students in some cases have been found to be falling 6 months to more than a year behind in their learning because of the disruption brought on by the COVID-19 virus. Families need a full array of options to get their students back on track as quickly as possible. AB59 would expand those options for more families than ever.
Assembly Bill 62 would expand provisions to participate in sports and extracurricular activities that are extended to homeschool students to include charter school students. Charter school students could not be charged fees beyond the same charged to students already enrolled in the school district.
Those arguing against this legislation would have us believe that this legislation is unfair and would create the option for “super teams.” Rep. Dittrich would counter with the fact that this option already exists with open enrollment. We have already seen students transfer within the state for this very reason. Further, those arguing against this legislation should understand that students who move to a virtual charter school do so for a very serious reason and are unlikely to return to their home district. Homeschooled children are already allowed to participate in school sports within their home district. By not including this segment of students in public school sports and extracurricular activities, the state is merely pushing them to become homeschool students outside of the virtual charter school option.
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE
This week, Rep. Dittrich testified before the Senate Committee on Insurance, Licensing, and Forestry along with Wisconsin State Senator Mary Felzkowski on SB 98, our legislation providing guidelines for alternative care practitioners and protections for consumers. Rep. Dittrich was encouraged to have thoughtful, bipartisan questioning and enthusiasm on the bill.
CONSTITUENT CORNER
It's great seeing the Capitol come back to life on days where people attend public committee hearings. Rep. Dittrich appreciated having this wonderful group of constituents stop by the office for a visit.
We all know elections & voter integrity are a hot topic these days. Rep. Dittrich wants to thank Oconomowoc City Clerk Diane Coenen for making the time to talk with her this morning to share what's going well, what can be improved, and how we can restore voter confidence in the process. Both Diane and Rep. Dittrich are eager to hear testimony at Wednesday's upcoming informational hearing at the State Capitol.
If you have any comments regarding the subject of this E-Update, please feel free to contact me.
Representative Barbara Dittrich State Capitol, 17 West PO Box 9582 Madison, WI 53708 Toll-Free (888) 534-0038 or (608) 266-8551 Rep.Dittrich@legis.wi.gov| |
