Republicans in the State House are backing a proposal to remove the term “gender identity” from the Maine Human Rights Act.

It comes as the state is thrust into the center of ongoing controversy over transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills has cited the state’s Human Rights Act to defend the legality of the practice, as the Trump administration sues the state over what it says is a violation of federal Title IX law.

At the same time, Democratic Rep. Holly Sargent of York is sponsoring legislation she says would ensure all Mainers have equal rights under the law.

Rep. Sarget said she planned to introduce the legislation long before the presidential election.

According to CBS 13 news, the Democrats’ bill received a slim simple majority in the House but will need two-thirds majority in both chambers before it can go before voters.