WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

JRS 37

Joint resolution supporting, in solidarity with national and international ski organizations and numerous skiers across the globe, the introduction of long-overdue gender equality in Nordic combined Olympic competition and urging that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) only introduce new Olympic sports that practice gender equality

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Phil Baruth

Vermont urges the IOC to establish gender equality standards for Nordic combined Olympics and require gender parity in all new Olympic sports approved.

As adopted by Senate and House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · JRS 37

Legislative bill overview

JRS 37 is a joint resolution expressing Vermont's support for gender equality in Nordic combined Olympic competition and calling on the International Olympic Committee to only approve new Olympic sports that practice gender equality. The resolution endorses efforts by ski organizations and athletes to address the historical exclusion of women from this winter sport at the Olympics.

Why is this important

Nordic combined, which combines ski jumping and cross-country skiing, has historically featured only men's competition at the Olympics despite women's participation in the sport globally. This resolution signals state-level support for equity in Olympic sports and attempts to influence international sports governance by conditioning IOC recognition on gender parity standards—a meaningful symbolic position on women's inclusion in athletics.

Potential points of contention

  • Non-binding nature: As a joint resolution, this carries no legal force and cannot compel the IOC to change its policies, limiting practical impact despite strong language
  • Scope of gender equality mandate: The requirement that all new Olympic sports practice "gender equality" is undefined—does this mean identical events, equal funding, equal media coverage, or something else?
  • State authority limits: Vermont has minimal leverage over international Olympic governance, raising questions about the resolution's effectiveness versus its symbolic value

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

Sign in to ask a question.