The Courier
NEWS
News from the Heart of Idaho Camas • Lincoln • Gooding
September 4, 2024
Vol 48 Num 36
Defending Women's Sports National Preparedness Month
from the Office of the Governor
Governor Brad Little hosted competitive swimmer and Independent Women’s Voice Ambassador Riley Gaines for a press conference today announcing his new executive order, the Defending Women’s Sports Act. Governor Little was the first governor in the country to sign a bill defending women’s sports, and the executive order he signed today continues Idaho’s fight against the Biden-Harris administration’s radical redefinition of gender in the new 1,500-page rewrite of Title IX rules. Title IX was signed into law in 1972 to provide fairness for female athletes in our country, and generations of Americans have worked hard to promote and advance women’s sports in society. “Biological males – men and boys – have physical differences that give them an unfair advantage when competing with women and girls in athletics. Female athletes work so hard to get better at their chosen sport. Some of them have started playing sports since they were toddlers. These girls and women, and their families, dedicate their time, passion, and money to improve their skills and compete to win. They deserve a level playing field. That is why it is so important for us as a state to do all we can to protect and defend women’s sports,” Governor Little said. “Riley Gaines is a leader defending women’s sports, advocating for equality and fairness, and standing up for women’s safety, privacy, and equal opportunities. I am grateful she came to Idaho to support our efforts.” Governor Little’s executive order directs the Idaho State Board of Education to: ● Work with the State Department of Education to ensure Idaho public schools are following all of Idaho’s laws related to fairness in women’s sports and continue to update all public schools as the legal challenges to the new Title IX rules unfold. ● Guarantee every female student in Idaho is provided equal opportunity in sports and school to the fullest extent, as guaranteed to them under the original Title IX rules and Idaho law. “In signing this executive order, Governor Little is standing up against the Biden-Harris administration’s Title IX rewrite, which is an assault on women’s sex-based rights. This decisive action will prevent unjust sex discrimination, save women’s sports, and protect privacy for Idaho women and girls. Today’s executive order is also possible because of the courageous leadership of Rep. Barbara Erhardt’s effort to protect women’s sports in Idaho. Idaho is lucky to have such incredible leaders who are unafraid to say women’s sports are for females. This is what it looks like to stand with women, and I hope every Governor does the same!” Gaines said.
Disasters in recent years, both in Idaho and across the country, are a reminder of the importance of being prepared. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is recognizing September as National Preparedness Month, which provides an opportunity for individuals and families to ensure they are aware of the threats and hazards in their communities. Whether you’re at home, at work, in school, on vacation, or on the road, having a plan in place is crucial. “Something as simple as an emergency preparedness kit for your vehicle and home is crucial,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “Emergency managers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other emergency responders do an outstanding job of keeping us safe, but they cannot do it alone. We encourage all Idahoans to discuss their family’s emergency plan should a disaster occur.” Throughout September, IOEM will share important preparedness information and tips on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to help Idahoans prepare for the unexpected. Each week, IOEM will focus on different themes to guide Idahoans in taking essential steps towards readiness. • Week 1: Creating Emergency Plans Idahoans are encouraged to discuss and document how they will communicate during an emergency, where they will go, and what steps they will take in different scenarios. Whether you’re at home, work, or school, having a well-thought-out plan makes sure that every member of your household knows what to do in case of an emergency. • Week 2: Building Emergency Kits Idahoans should gather essential items such as water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Kits should be prepared for both the home and vehicle for readiness in various situations. • Week 3: Staying Informed Idahoans are encouraged to learn or review how they receive alerts and warnings, understand the types of emergencies that could affect your area, and having a reliable communication strategy. • Week 4: Community Involvement and Volunteering The final week of September encourages Idahoans to get involved and volunteer in their communities.