York County News

A group of female Republican senators has introduced the Save Women’s Sports Act, a legislative measure aimed at ensuring that women’s sports remain exclusive to biological females. The bill, Senate Bill 9, was presented by Senators Judy Ward, Kristin Phillips-Hill, Lisa Baker, Michele Brooks, Camera Bartolotta, Tracy Pennycuick, Rosemary Brown, Lynda Schlegel Culver, Dawn Keefer and President Pro Tempore Kim Ward.

The proposed legislation seeks to protect athletic opportunities for women while maintaining the intent of Title IX. "Today we are sadly seeing the landmark protections that Title IX initially provided to women being eroded by unelected bureaucrats," said Judy Ward. She emphasized the physiological advantages men possess and how their inclusion in women's sports impacts opportunities for women.

Kristin Phillips-Hill expressed concern over the integrity of women's sports: "The integrity of women’s sports is under attack... We must act now to protect these opportunities and ensure fairness for the next generation."

Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward stated that reintroducing this bill marks a significant day for female athletes in Pennsylvania. "We stand alongside women athletes to fight for their right for fair competition," she said.

The intrusion of men into women's sports has reportedly led to losses in scholarships and placements for female athletes. Instances such as Lia Thomas winning gold in the 2022 NCAA swimming championship have been cited as examples where female athletes lost opportunities due to male participation.

Michele Brooks highlighted the importance of fair competition: "It is our responsibility to ensure that young women and girls have access to fair competition and equal opportunities." Lisa Baker added that the bill establishes state policy principles focusing on fair play and safety.

Camera Bartolotta emphasized protecting common-sense values through this legislation. Reports also mention injuries sustained by female athletes due to male participation in sports events.

Tracy Pennycuick noted the developmental benefits of sports for young women: "Women competing in sports learn leadership skills... Let’s keep the playing field even for our girls." Rosemary Brown echoed similar sentiments about safeguarding fairness in competitions.

Lynda Schlegel Culver believes it is crucial to address complexities surrounding participation in women's sports: "I believe it’s important to ensure that all athletes have the opportunity to compete fairly and safely."

Dawn Keefer criticized allowing biological males in women's sports as undermining fairness: "This bill is about protecting women’s right to compete fairly."

The legislation currently resides with the Senate Education Committee. If passed by the Senate as it did previously during 2021/2022 as Senate Bill 1191, it will proceed to the House for consideration.