Riley Gaines Act

Summary

Creates a federal private right of action that lets a female student athlete sue a college, university, or athletic association in federal court for damages when a biologically male student competes in events designated for female athletes and the female athlete is physically injured due to the biological male’s physiological advantages. The law allows recovery for losses such as lost scholarships or professional opportunities and requires courts to award reasonable attorney fees to a prevailing plaintiff. It also establishes a short title for the statute.

• Creates a federal cause of action for female student athletes injured when a biologically male student competes in female-only events.
• Allows recovery of damages for physical injury and consequential losses like lost scholarships or professional opportunities.
• Applies to institutions of higher education and athletic associations if they negligently or recklessly allowed the participation.
• Requires courts to award reasonable attorney fees to plaintiffs who prevail.
• Claims are filed in federal district court as private lawsuits rather than through administrative agencies.
• Does not specify definitions for key terms (e.g., "biologically male") or an effective date.
• May expose public and private colleges to new liability and litigation costs.
• Focused narrowly on competition eligibility and injury liability rather than broader education or civil-rights rules.