kate sanchez
Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez Introduces ‘Protect Girls’ Sports Act’ to Preserve Fairness in Athletics
By Marie O’Nealle
San Diego, CA - Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez of California has introduced the “Protect Girls’ Sports Act,” a legislative proposal designed to ensure that female athletic competitions remain exclusive to females. The act addresses growing concerns about the inclusion of trans-identified males in girls’ sports, highlighting the need for safety, fairness, and the preservation of opportunities for female athletes.
Kate Sanchez, who represents California’s 71st Assembly District, was elected in November 2022. A graduate of Salve Regina University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, she has a background as a businesswoman and nonprofit executive. Sanchez has consistently championed issues such as parental rights, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. Before joining the Assembly, she worked for the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, former Congressman Ed Royce.
The Protect Girls’ Sports Act proposes that participation in school athletic programs be based solely on sex. Under the bill, males would not be permitted to compete in female sports categories. By defining sex explicitly in education policies, the legislation seeks to uphold the integrity of women’s sports while safeguarding opportunities for female athletes.
Assemblywoman Sanchez and supporters of the bill argue that the inclusion of trans-identified males in female sports creates an unfair competitive advantage due to inherent physiological differences. They emphasize that this undermines the purpose of Title IX, which was established to provide equal athletic opportunities for women and girls. Sanchez stated that the bill aims to ensure a level playing field for female athletes, emphasizing the importance of preserving fairness and protecting young girls in sports.
The introduction of the Protect Girls’ Sports Act comes amid a broader national debate over the participation of men in women’s sports. At the federal level, similar legislation, such as the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023, has been proposed. This federal bill seeks to restrict participation in women’s sports to females, citing concerns over fairness and the safety of female athletes.
Supporters of Sanchez’s legislation argue that the presence of trans-identified males in female sports could result in females losing scholarships, recognition, and advancement opportunities. They also highlight the potential for increased injury risks in contact sports. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will continue to spark important discussions about the preservation of opportunities for female athletes in competitive sports.