House Passes Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act with a vote of 218-206, primarily supported by Republicans and only two Democrats. The legislation aims to ensure that only biological females compete in federally funded women's sports programs, amending Title IX to recognize sex based on reproductive biology and genetics at birth. Proponents, including Representative Greg Steube, argue the bill protects fairness and safety in sports, while Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need to uphold common sense and women's rights. Conversely, nearly all House Democrats opposed the bill, labeling it as harmful and fearmongering, with some suggesting it could lead to invasive practices like genital exams. Critics argue that the bill undermines the rights of transgender athletes, asserting that such measures are discriminatory and unnecessary. The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.