House Passes Bill Banning Transgender Athletes from Women’s Sports
TL/DR –
The US House of Representatives passed the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which states that a person’s sex is determined by their reproductive biology and genetics at birth. This would impact Title IX’s prohibition against sex discrimination in education and school sports, potentially banning transgender women from participating in women’s sports. Critics, including LGBTQ+ advocacy group the Human Rights Campaign, argue that the bill could lead to discrimination and personal inspections of children’s gender, with no provision for parental consent in the legislation.
US House Passes Bill to Ban Transgender Athletes from Women’s Sports
The US House of Representatives passed a [legislation] Tuesday, which aims to ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports funded by federal money. This decision comes a week after Republican representatives reintroduced the bill.
Key Points of the Legislation
- The “Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act” was approved by the House.
- Sex, according to the bill, is determined solely by an individual’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth.
- The new definition is to be used to ensure compliance with Title IX – a 1972 civil rights law that bans sex discrimination in education and school sports.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune has prepared to place the bill on the Senate’s agenda.
The bill passed with a 218-206 vote.
House Speaker Mike Johnson applauded the vote, stating the decision aligns with Republican commitment to women and common sense – acknowledging the biological distinction between men and women.
The introduction by Rep. Greg Steube, the [legislation] aims to ban federal fund recipients from permitting transgender women to participate in women’s sports events.
Concerns have been raised by House Democrats, including Rep. Pete Aguilar who fears potential “personal inspections” of young athletes. He criticized the bill, calling it the “GOP Child Predator Empowerment Act.”
Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, warned the bill could foster discrimination and harassment of young people. The bill, she said, could strip children of opportunities, fairness, and safety in sports.
Similar legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, and is set to be placed on the Senate calendar by Majority Leader John Thune.
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