Nicole Tobiassen, a New Mexico State Senator, expressed her pride in sponsoring Senate Bill 459, aimed at protecting women's sports and supporting young female athletes across the state. She made this statement via a press release on February 26.
"As a woman, a mother, and a former athlete, I am proud to sponsor this legislation," said Tobiassen. "Americans broadly support the protection of women's sports. Based on conversations I have had with constituents and several young women in athletics, New Mexicans do as well."
Senate Bill 459, known as the "Protection of Women's Sports Act," was introduced in the New Mexico Senate on February 20, 2025, by Senators Jay C. Block and Tobiassen. The bill stipulates that participation in female-designated school sports should be limited to biological females and applies to public schools, higher education institutions, and private athletic clubs. It has been referred to the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee for further examination.
House Bill 185, also titled the "Protection of Women's Sports Act," was introduced in the New Mexico House on January 28, 2025. This bill requires schools to categorize teams as "male," "female," or "coed" based on biological sex and prohibits individuals designated male at birth from competing in female sports while allowing them to practice with the team. On February 13, 2025, the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee voted along party lines to table the bill with a vote of 4-2, thereby halting its progress.
According to a CWS research report, a recent poll conducted from January 31 to February 6 revealed that 74% of respondents believe boys should not participate in girls’ sports or use girls’ locker rooms. Of those respondents, 64% strongly agree with this position while another 10% somewhat agree. Conversely, 18% oppose these restrictions with 6% somewhat disagreeing and 12% strongly against it; meanwhile, 8% remain undecided.
Tobiassen is described as a former corporate executive who transitioned into business coaching and community leadership. She co-founded ActionCOACH in 2008 to support business owners and is an advocate for healthcare reform. Additionally, she is active in organizations such as Rotary International and the Hispano Chamber of Commerce.
