Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Texas House Bill HB84

Caption

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

Impact

If enacted, HB84 will directly affect the rules governing participation in school sports across Texas public institutions, including both K-12 and higher education. By requiring that athletes compete according to their biological sex, the bill may significantly alter team compositions and dynamics, potentially impacting opportunities for student athletes, particularly those who are transgender or non-binary. This standard may create scenarios where certain athletes could be excluded from competition, eliciting concerns around equity and access in school sports programs.

Summary

House Bill 84 introduces regulations concerning the participation of students in interscholastic athletic competitions in Texas. The bill mandates that students must compete based on their biological sex as indicated on their official birth certificate or other government records. This includes provisions that prohibit students from competing on teams designated for the opposite sex unless specific conditions are met, such as the absence of a corresponding female competition. The bill's primary aim is to create a clear framework around the eligibility of student athletes in competition, ensuring that biological sex is the standard for team designation.

Contention

The proposal of HB84 is likely to stir debate among legislators, educators, parents, and advocates for children's rights. Proponents argue that the legislation prioritizes fairness in sports, ensuring that competition remains equitable based on physical attributes traditionally associated with biological sex. However, opponents contend that this bill discriminates against transgender athletes and may infringe upon their rights to compete and express their identity. The legal implications of allowing civil action against schools or districts for violations further complicate the landscape, potentially leading to increased litigation and challenges regarding enforcement and policy adherence.

Companion Bills

TX SB27

Same As Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

Previously Filed As

TX SB15

Relating to requiring public institution of higher education students who compete in intercollegiate athletic competitions to compete based on biological sex.

TX HB23

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX SB649

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX HB691

Relating to prevention of and safety requirements regarding sudden cardiac arrest affecting public school students participating in interscholastic athletics.

TX HB1802

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX SB971

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX HB1002

Relating to the membership of a public school concussion oversight team and the removal of a public school student from an interscholastic athletic activity on the basis of a suspected concussion.

TX HB5033

Relating to requiring public schools and public institutions of higher education to report data regarding certain arrests made on school or institution property.

TX HB5126

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

TX SB2519

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

Similar Bills

TX SB27

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

TX SB2

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

TX HB185

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

TX HB274

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

TX SB40

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

TX HB100

Relating to requiring public school and public institution of higher education students to compete in interscholastic athletic competitions based on biological sex.

NJ S3374

Permits certain students not enrolled in public schools to participate in interscholastic athletics.

NJ A4698

Permits certain students not enrolled in public schools to participate in interscholastic athletics.