State Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, on Tuesday criticized Senate Democrats for refusing to allow even the reading of Senate Resolution 8647, a measure she sponsored to honor the legacy and importance of women’s sports and promote fairness in female athletic competition.

The resolution, co-sponsored by Sen. Shelly Short, R-Addy, recognized the accomplishments of female athletes, the impact of Title IX, and the need to preserve equal opportunities for women and girls in sports.

“It is deeply disappointing that my Democratic colleagues chose to block a resolution that simply celebrates the achievements of women in sports and calls for fairness in competition,” Warnick said. “SR 8647 acknowledges the transformative impact of Title IX, the rise of women’s athletics, and the importance of preserving equal opportunities for female athletes.”

Warnick said the refusal to bring the resolution to the Senate floor is part of a broader trend of dismissing concerns raised by athletes, parents and sports advocates who say women’s sports are being undermined when biological males are allowed to compete in female categories.

“This is not a fringe issue, it is a mainstream concern shared by athletes, coaches and families across Washington and the country,” said Warnick. “Washington should be leading the way in supporting women’s sports, not silencing efforts to recognize and protect them.”

SR 8647 also celebrated Spokane’s recent hosting of the NCAA Women’s Sweet 16 and Elite 8 games and praised the city for advancing opportunities for female athletes.