Rep. Andy Barr Plans Bill Cutting Federal Funds For Schools Defying Trump Women’s Sports Order

Republican Kentucky Rep. Andy Barr is set to introduce the Defend Girls Athletics Act, legislation requiring schools and higher education institutions to ensure compliance with President Donald Trump’s executive order banning biological males from competing in women’s sports as a condition for receiving federal funding. The bill mandates Local Education Agencies to annually certify their compliance to State Education Agencies, which then report to the U.S. Department of Education; failure to comply allows the DOE to withhold funds. Higher education institutions, including student loan programs, must also submit annual certifications to maintain federal funding eligibility. Barr emphasizes protecting female athletes and credits President Trump, Secretary Linda McMahon, and activists like Riley Gaines for leading efforts to preserve biological fairness in women’s sports. The bill is co-sponsored by 49 lawmakers, including prominent Republicans such as House Republican Conference chairwoman Lisa McClain and Florida Rep. Byron Donalds. Barr insists that schools nationwide should comply or face consequences for endangering female athletes’ opportunities and fairness in sports.