Proposals to ban transgender student-athletes from girls' sports in Washington fail

The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) announced that two proposed amendments to ban transgender student-athletes from competing in girls' sports failed to pass during advisory votes held by the Representative Assembly. Amendment ML/HS No. 7 aimed to limit participation in girls' sports to biological females but fell one vote short of the required 60% approval, receiving 31 votes in favor. The second proposal, Amendment ML/HS No. 8, which sought to create separate athletic programs for boys, girls, and an open division, garnered only 13 votes in favor against 40 opposed.

WIAA Executive Director Mick Hoffman indicated that the number of transgender athletes in sports is minimal, which may mitigate potential pushback from member schools. Frances Staudt, a student-athlete, expressed disappointment, stating that the WIAA and school administrators are failing to support female athletes. She emphasized the need for girls' voices to be heard and criticized attempts to silence dissent. The WIAA clarified that the failed amendments were advisory only and would not have been implemented due to existing Washington state law. Stakeholders are encouraged to pursue legislative changes through the state's initiative process or by engaging with their representatives.