Bill would help protect female student athletes.
DOVER, DE – On Friday, June 23, 2023, Senator Bryant Richardson (R – Seaford) announced his intention to introduce the Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act.
Senate Bill 191 (SB 191) would ensure a level playing-field for female student athletes, requiring individuals to participate in a sport associated with his or her biological sex.
Support for legislation similar to SB 191 continues to rise throughout the United States. A poll released by Gallup earlier this month shows 69% of respondents believe individuals should only participate on teams and in sports that match their biological sex.
“With the rise of male students participating in female sports across the nation, it is important we protect female athletes in Delaware, guaranteeing fairness and equal opportunity for success,” Senator Richardson said.
Senator Eric Buckson (R – Dover), a former public educator, athletic coach, and current Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association (DIAA) wrestling referee, joined Senator Richardson in sponsoring the legislation.
“I’ve seen first-hand the physical differences between male and female student athletes,” Senator Buckson stated. “There are certainly exceptions, but on average, a boy is physically stronger and faster than a girl. We need to do all we can to protect girls and not place female athletes at a competitive disadvantage.”
Senator Richardson’s announcement comes during National Women’s Sports Week, coincides with the 51st anniversary of Title IX becoming law, and a day after the General Assembly passed Senator Kyle Evans Gay’s (D – Claymont) Senate Concurrent Resolution 93 (SCR 93), which recognizes Title IX’s anniversary.
“I applaud Senator Gay for introducing SCR 93,” said Senator Richardson. “The work of Title IX’s advocates is inspirational and has led to the advancement of women in education, athletics, and in society in general. SB 191 builds on Title IX’s protections and guarantees equal opportunities for success for female athletes in The First State.”
SB 191 will be formally introduced before the end of this year’s session on June 30, 2023.
Senator Richardson introduced similar legislation last year (Senate Bill 346), but the bill did not make it out of committee.
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