Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 2026

Plain-English Summary: Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 2026

This bill would establish rules about who can compete in women's sports categories at the Olympic and amateur sports levels in the United States. Specifically, it would require that athletic competitions designated as "women's" or "girls'" events be limited to athletes who were born female — meaning transgender women and girls who were born male would not be permitted to compete in those women's categories. The bill targets sports governed by organizations that receive federal funding or fall under the oversight of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

The bill would affect a wide range of people and organizations. Transgender female athletes would be directly impacted, as they would be prohibited from competing in women's divisions under the covered sports organizations. Sports governing bodies and amateur athletic associations that receive federal support would be required to enforce these eligibility rules or potentially face consequences related to their funding or legal standing. Cisgender women and girls who compete in these sports categories are the intended beneficiaries, as the bill's supporters argue it creates a level competitive environment.

It is worth noting that this bill addresses a topic that is actively debated across the country, with strong views on multiple sides. Supporters argue it protects fairness in women's sports, while opponents argue it discriminates against transgender athletes and could harm their well-being. The bill has advanced through the House Judiciary Committee and is now eligible for a full vote by the House of Representatives. No official bill text summary was provided, so this summary is based on the bill's title and legislative context.