Us Congress Senate Bill SB613

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/1/23

Caption

Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023

Impact

The bill would have significant implications for state laws and educational institutions that receive federal funding. By enforcing strict criteria based on biological sex, the legislation could potentially exclude transgender females from competing in women's sports. This aligns federal regulations with a growing trend among several states to enact laws that restrict transgender athletes' participation based on their birth sex, thereby reshaping the landscape of women's athletics at multiple levels, including high school and collegiate competitions.

Summary

SB613, officially titled the 'Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023', aims to amend the Education Amendments of 1972 to define sex in athletics based solely on a person's reproductive biology and genetics at birth. This legislation seeks to ensure that individuals assigned male at birth are prohibited from participating in athletic programs designated for women and girls. The bill emphasizes the importance of preserving women's sports and providing a fair competitive environment for female athletes.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB613. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect the integrity and fairness of women's sports. They assert that allowing individuals who are biologically male to compete undermines the hard-fought gains made for women's athletics. Conversely, opponents of the bill contend that it discriminates against transgender individuals and violates principles of equality and inclusion. Critics argue that gender identity should be recognized within the context of sports, and that this legislation could harm the participation and mental well-being of transgender athletes.