Lake County Gazette

Illinois House Republican lawmakers gathered at the Capitol to introduce legislation aimed at protecting women's sports. This move follows a recent Executive Order by President Donald Trump, which prohibits biological men from competing against biological women in sports.

Last month, House Republican lawmakers sent a letter to the Illinois High School Sports Association (IHSA) seeking clarification on how current policies would be amended to align with the Executive Order. The IHSA's lack of response has prompted further legislative action.

"Our objective here is simple – to protect the many female student-athletes here in Illinois who are facing undue challenges when competing," said Rep. Weber. "Women have fought for decades to have equal athletic opportunities through Title IX, and we cannot let those great strides turn into steps backward. "

Rep. Weber introduced House Bill 4027, which requires public schools and colleges with athletic programs to provide equal opportunities for both sexes by designating teams as male, female, or co-ed. The bill prohibits biological males from competing on teams designated for females.

State Rep. Regan Deering introduced House Bill 1117, which also mandates that school sports teams be designated as male, female, or co-ed, with students participating on teams matching their biological sex.

"Fairness in girls' sports is not up for negotiation," said Rep. Deering. "Privacy and safety are not political issues. "

The lawmakers were joined by Kaitlynn and Abbigail Wheeler, Riley Gaines Center Ambassadors who advocated for safety and fairness in women's sports during the press conference.

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