Lawmakers have more important issues than transgender athletes
The leaders of both houses of the Georgia Legislature have stated passing a law that prohibits transgender girls from competing on girls’ sports teams is a priority for them. We have seen nothing to indicate that this is even happening.
On the other hand, Georgia ranks near the bottom of educational outcomes. Georgia consistently ranks near the bottom in health outcomes. Georgia is always near the top for states with the highest rates of teen pregnancies, STDs, HIV infections, etc. Should the Legislature’s priority really be directed toward whether transgender girls can play sports — on any team? I’m not convinced.
BRUCE GARNER, ATLANTA
Climate change played significant role in 2024 hurricanes
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season demonstrated an alarming increase in the number and intensity of hurricanes. With 11 hurricanes, compared with the average of seven, the season brought destruction far beyond the Gulf Coast.
Meteorologists have pointed to unusually warm ocean temperatures as a contributing factor. Eight hurricanes made landfall in various locations, including the United States, Bermuda, Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Grenada.
Notable hurricanes, such as Beryl, Helene and Milton, exhibited unprecedented behavior. Hurricane Beryl became the first Category 4 hurricane on record to form in June, and Hurricane Milton’s maximum wind speeds reached a staggering 180 mph. Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage across the Southeastern United States, resulting in more than 200 deaths and extensive property damage.
Climate change has played a significant role in this trend. Planet-warming gases such as carbon dioxide and methane are causing oceans to warm, which fuels more powerful and frequent hurricanes. Though climate change generally can’t be linked to specific weather events, it certainly increases their likelihood and severity.
ERICA BIBBEY, MARIETTA
