Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 2026
Summary
The Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 2026 seeks to modify eligibility requirements for amateur sports governing organizations. It defines 'female,' 'male,' and 'sex' based on reproductive systems and prohibits individuals whose sex is male from participating in athletic competitions designated for females, women, or girls. The bill amends Title 36 of the United States Code to incorporate these eligibility requirements.
Expected Effects
This act would mandate that amateur sports organizations receiving federal support must adhere to specific biological definitions of sex. This could lead to the exclusion of transgender women and girls from participating in women's sports. The change would impact how sports organizations determine eligibility and could potentially face legal challenges.
Potential Benefits
- May ensure fair competition in women's sports by preventing biological males from competing.
- Could reinforce traditional definitions of sex in federally supported organizations.
- May provide clarity for sports organizations in establishing eligibility criteria.
- Could be seen as protecting the integrity of women's sports.
- May align with the views of some regarding sex and gender in sports.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be discriminatory towards transgender individuals, limiting their opportunities to participate in sports.
- May face legal challenges based on equal protection and anti-discrimination laws.
- Could create administrative burdens for sports organizations to verify the sex of participants.
- May alienate or exclude individuals who do not fit neatly into binary definitions of sex.
- Could negatively impact the mental and physical health of transgender athletes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Supporters might argue it aligns with the original intent of equal opportunity by ensuring fair competition, potentially referencing the 14th Amendment's Equal Protection Clause. However, opponents could argue that it violates the same clause by discriminating against transgender individuals. The lack of explicit constitutional guidance on transgender rights leaves room for interpretation and legal challenges.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).