California, Indiana, New Mexico Propose Bills Banning Trans Athletes in Women's Sports

In response to President Trump's executive order banning transgender women from competing in women's sports, California lawmakers have introduced three bills aimed at reversing protections for trans athletes. Assemblymember Bill Essayli's bill mandates that athletes compete based on their biological sex, igniting a contentious debate about the rights of trans individuals in sports. Similarly, Indiana's House Bill 1041, which codifies the NCAA's ban on transgender women athletes, has drawn criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates who view it as a continuation of anti-trans legislation. Meanwhile, Lafayette College announced compliance with the NCAA's new policy, which restricts transgender women from participating in women's sports. In New Mexico, a proposed bill to prohibit trans athletes in women's sports faced strong opposition and was ultimately tabled by lawmakers, reflecting ongoing political battles over this issue. Observers note that these legislative efforts are part of a broader national trend against trans inclusion in sports, often influenced by out-of-state advocacy groups.