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Bill

HB 156

Education - Interscholastic and Intramural Junior Varsity and Varsity Teams - Designation Based on Sex (Fairness in Girls' Sports Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 23 co-sponsors

Maryland bill requires school sports teams designated by biological sex instead of gender identity, prohibiting transgender athletes from competing in sex-aligned categories.

Unfavorable Report by Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · HB 156

Legislative bill overview

HB 156 would require Maryland schools to designate interscholastic and intramural sports teams based on biological sex rather than gender identity. The bill specifically addresses team participation eligibility for junior varsity and varsity athletic programs in public schools.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects transgender and non-binary student athletes' ability to participate in school sports aligned with their gender identity. The outcome will influence how Maryland balances athletic competition standards with inclusive education policies, setting a precedent that other states may follow.

Potential points of contention

  • Biological sex vs. gender identity definitions: The bill uses "sex" as the determinant, but doesn't define whether this means chromosomes, birth certificate designation, or current medical status—creating ambiguity in implementation
  • Competitive fairness vs. inclusion: Supporters argue sex-based teams ensure fair competition; critics argue this excludes transgender students and may violate equal protection principles
  • Medical and athletic evidence disagreement: Scientists disagree on how hormone levels, timing of transition, and other factors affect athletic performance, leaving the factual basis contested
  • Existing school policies: Many Maryland schools may already have inclusive policies; this bill could override local administrative decisions and create legal conflicts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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