Altoona Times

A group of female Republican senators has introduced the Save Women’s Sports Act, a legislative proposal aimed at preventing men from participating in women's sports. The bill, known as 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 legislation seeks to ensure that school athletic teams designated for women are exclusively for biological females.

Senator Judy Ward expressed concern about the erosion of Title IX protections: “Today we are sadly seeing the landmark protections that Title IX initially provided to women being eroded by unelected bureaucrats, as men claiming to be women unfairly compete in women’s sports.” She emphasized the need to defend these protections and uphold women's rights.

Kristin Phillips-Hill highlighted the importance of maintaining fairness in women's sports: “The integrity of women’s sports is under attack, and without action, female athletes will pay the price.” She stressed that sports build character and create opportunities for future generations.

Kim Ward commented on the reintroduction of the act: “Today is a great day for female athletes across Pennsylvania as republican senators reintroduce the ‘Save Women’s Sports Act’.” She underscored support for fair competition in women's athletics.

The issue has gained attention due to instances where male participation in women's sports has led to losses for female athletes. An example cited was Lia Thomas winning gold at the 2022 NCAA swimming championship. Since 2020 in Pennsylvania alone, there have been multiple cases where female athletes lost medals or placements due to male competitors.

Michele Brooks stated that ensuring fair competition is crucial: “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 aims to establish principles of fair play: “This bill establishes as our policy the principles of fair play.”

Camera Bartolotta mentioned protecting common-sense values: “This legislation protects common-sense values.”

Tracy Pennycuick spoke about her personal connection with women's sports: “As a mom of now grown women, I know the importance playing sports had in their young lives.”

Rosemary Brown reflected on her experiences as a former athlete: “It’s important to remember that every valid competition begins with a level playing field.”

Lynda Schlegel Culver emphasized safety and fairness: “I believe it’s important to ensure that all athletes have the opportunity to compete fairly and safely.”

Dawn Keefer addressed issues related to inclusion: “Allowing biological males in women’s sports undermines fairness and steals opportunities from females.”

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