Transgender athlete debate continues at Capitol in Madison

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The debate over transgender athletes competing on women and girls sports teams hit the Wisconsin Capitol Wednesday, Dec. 13. 

Republican-backed bills to ban transgender participation received a public hearing in the Senate. 

If they pass out of committee, it will be the first time the proposals will be up for a vote in the Senate following Assembly Republicans passage earlier this year, and last year. 

Republicans who authored the bills say they are designed to create an even playing field by allowing athletes to only participate on sports teams that align with their biological sex. 

Democrats have widely criticized the proposals, calling them harmful. 

"This will ensure that all athletes have equal access to athletic opportunities and fair recognition based on their talents and efforts," said State Sen. Dan Knodl (R-Germantown).

"These bills further stigmatize and isolate transgender youth who evidence has shown already at greater risk for mental health concerns, including suicidality," said State Rep. Lee Snodgrass (D-Appleton). 

Governor Tony Evers vowed to veto these bills. 

Last week, Evers vetoed another transgender bill passed by Republicans that would have banned minors from receiving gender transition treatment and he has vowed to veto these bills as well if they hit his desk.