The Pennsylvania Senate passed a House Bill that called for banning transgender females from competing in girls’ scholastic and collegiate athletics by a 30-20 vote.

All 28 Republicans voted in favor of the bill and were joined by John Yudichak (I-Luzerne) and Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton).

HB 972, sponsored by Rep. Barbara Gleim (R-Cumberland), was similar in format to Senate Bill 1191 that was adopted by a 30-20 vote three weeks ago.

“Having separate biologically-specific teams, which Title IX protects, furthers efforts to promote women’s equality,” wrote Gleim when proposing the legislation. “Biologically-specific teams accomplish this by providing opportunities for female athletes to demonstrate their skill, strength, and athletic abilities while also providing them with opportunities to obtain recognition and accolades, college scholarships, and the numerous other long-term benefits that flow from success in athletic endeavors.”

Passionate debate came from both sides of the aisle. GOP members talked about fairness, opportunity and safety for girls participating in scholastic and intercollegiate athletics. Democrats spoke to attacks on transgenders and the impact that such a decision would have on all students.

“This attempt to censor curricula and our educators is extremely concerning,” said Beth Rementer, spokesperson for Gov. Tom Wolf. “Further, it usurps the ability of individual school districts to determine what’s in the best interest of its students, staff and residents.”