Sponsors (11)
The bill expands civil remedies for female athletes harmed by biologically male competitors, improving access to damages and fee recovery, but raises litigation exposure for schools and may prompt institutions to restrict transgender participation, creating inclusion and administrative burdens.
Female student-athletes who are injured by a biologically male competitor can sue educational institutions or athletic associations for damages (e.g., lost scholarships or professional opportunities).
Prevailing injured plaintiffs can recover reasonable attorney’s fees, lowering financial barriers to bringing claims.
Colleges and athletic associations face increased litigation exposure and potential liability for negligence or recklessness in roster and eligibility decisions, raising financial and operational risks for schools.
Institutions may respond by restricting participation or adopting exclusionary policies, reducing inclusion and opportunities for transgender students and creating civil-rights concerns.
Federal courts and defendants nationwide could see increased caseloads and administrative/legal costs because lawsuits may be filed in any appropriate U.S. district court.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Creates a federal lawsuit right for female student athletes injured when institutions negligently or recklessly allow biologically male athletes to compete in women-only events, with fees for prevailing plaintiffs.
Official title: To authorize civil actions against institutions of higher education and athletic associations that negligently or recklessly permit a biologically male student athlete to compete in an athletic competition intended exclusively for female student athletes, resulting in harm.
Introduced February 4, 2026 by John J. McGuire · Last progress February 4, 2026
Creates a federal private right of action allowing a female student athlete to sue a college, university, or athletic association in federal court for damages if the institution negligently or recklessly permits a biologically male student athlete to compete in women-only competitions and the female athlete is physically injured because of the male athlete’s physiological advantages. A prevailing plaintiff is entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees.