U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn has introduced a series of legislative measures aimed at supporting women and girls in sports. The proposed legislation includes a resolution urging the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to revoke its transgender student-athlete eligibility policy, a bill addressing violence against women in athletics, and a resolution to declare October 10 as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’ Senate Democrats blocked this resolution last Congress.
A United Nations report from last year highlighted the competitive disadvantage faced by women when competing against biological men. This issue is set to be discussed at the NCAA’s annual meeting in Nashville, where member institutions will review association policies.
Senator Blackburn stated, “Young women across the country have suffered injuries, faced sexual harassment, and lost accolades because they were forced to share spaces designed for women with men.” She emphasized that most Americans believe athletes should compete on teams matching their biological sex.
The Fair Play for Girls Act requires the U.S. Attorney General to analyze violence against women in athletics and propose policy recommendations. It aims to address issues such as impediments to fair competition for female athletes and the prevalence of online violence and harassment.
The legislation has received endorsements from various individuals and organizations. Riley Gaines, an NCAA All-American swimmer, called on Congress members to support Blackburn’s efforts: “This abuse cannot continue.”
Jennifer Sey, founder of XX-XY Athletics, expressed gratitude towards Senator Blackburn: “Thank you, Senator Blackburn, for standing strong for women.”
Caitlyn Jenner also praised Blackburn’s work: “Senator Blackburn is doing incredible work on protecting women’s sports by ensuring a fair playing field.”
Sage Steele commented on the impact of changes to Title IX: “The Biden administration’s decision…was devastating for so many women across the United States.”
Penny Nance from Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee criticized the NCAA’s current stance: “It is long past time for the NCAA to put action to its words.”
Michele Exner from Parents Defending Education Action supported Blackburn’s initiative: “Parents across America are fed up with illogical, progressive policies that have no basis in science or common sense.”
Carrie Lukas from Independent Women’s Forum emphasized following scientific principles in athletic participation policies: “Policies and decisions regarding athletic participation must follow the science.”
Several Republican senators co-sponsor these bills and resolutions alongside Senator Blackburn.
