Texas House Passes Bills Defining Male Female Protections

The Texas House has passed House Bill 229, known as the Women's Bill of Rights, which defines sex in state law strictly as male or female based on biological reproductive capacity, affirming that males and females have unique, immutable biological differences. The bill aims to protect single-sex spaces such as athletics, prisons, and shelters by codifying these definitions to ensure safety, privacy, and fairness for women and girls. Sponsored by State Rep. Ellen Troxclair, the legislation passed largely along party lines despite strong opposition from transgender activists and Democrats who argue it discriminates against gender identity. Alongside HB 229, the House passed Senate Bill 1257 requiring insurance coverage for adverse effects from gender transition surgeries and detransitioning. The bill has moved to the Texas Senate and is expected to be signed by Governor Greg Abbott. Proponents assert that the legislation restores clarity to sex-based terms and safeguards the rights and opportunities of females, especially in education and athletics.