Kansas Governor once again fails to stand up for women
Topeka, Kan. — February 13, 2026
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has vetoed Senate Bill 244, legislation which strengthens the state’s Women’s Bill of Rights by restoring clear, consistent definitions of sex in Kansas law and ensuring that women and girls have access to private, secure, sex-specific spaces in public buildings. It passed both legislative chambers with veto proof supermajorities– in the House 87-36 and in the Senate 30-9.
S.B. 244 provides statewide clarity for agencies, schools, and public institutions by clarifying that the use of “sex” and “gender” in statute is defined by biology. The bill also establishes clear expectations for the designation of multiple‑occupancy restrooms, locker rooms, and changing areas in public buildings, ensuring these spaces remain reserved for one sex only.
Statement of Brittany Jones, Esq., President of Kansas Family Voice:
“Governor Kelly once again refuses to stand up for Kansas women. Most kindergartners know the difference between a boy and a girl & can tell you which restroom each should use, yet the governor of our state cannot seem to recognize the distinction.
S.B. 244 reflects common-sense reality that most Kansans operate under every single day. Men belong in men’s restrooms and women belong in women’s restrooms. This bill does not require any structural changes in government buildings. The vast majority of public restrooms are already designated for men, women, or are single occupancy restrooms.
The Governor used a great deal of imagination to cast aspersions on the clear intent of this bill. S.B. 244 is not hard to understand or enforce. The Legislature should act swiftly to ensure this law goes into effect to protect women’s and girls’ privacy and ensure common-sense is restored in our state. We call on the House and Senate to override this veto when they return to Topeka next week!”
Media Contact: (785) 542-0220, media@kansasfamilyvoice.com
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Kansas Family Voice is a Christ-centered organization with a vision for a Kansas where God is honored, religious freedom flourishes, families thrive and life is cherished.
