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HB 2565

Modifies guidelines for student participation in athletic contests organized by sex

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Myers and 1 co-sponsor

Missouri HB 2565 would change how student-athletes are deemed eligible to participate in sex-segregated sports, including eligibility criteria and verification procedures.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HB 2565

Bill overview

HB 2565 (Missouri, 2026) aims to modify the guidelines governing student participation in athletic contests organized by sex. The bill’s stated intent is to adjust eligibility or participation rules for student-athletes based on sex, with the sponsors listed as Jeff Myers and Mike Steinmeyer (co-sponsors).

Key provisions and changes

  • The bill would alter the current framework for determining which students may participate in athletic contests organized by sex. While the exact text is not provided here, such bills typically address:
    • Eligibility criteria for participation by student-athletes of different biological sexes.
    • Requirements related to reported sex or gender identity for eligibility.
    • Potential use of birth sex, biological markers, or approved medical guidelines to determine eligibility.
    • Procedures for resolving eligibility disputes or challenges to participation.
  • The bill may introduce new administrative or procedural steps for schools or athletic associations to follow in order to verify compliance with sex-based participation guidelines.
  • Possible alignment or changes to how schools handle transgender or non-binary student-athlete participation, including any restrictions, appeal processes, or exemptions.
  • There could be provisions affecting scholarships, team rosters, or competition eligibility if a student’s eligibility status changes based on sex-based criteria.
  • Penalties or consequences for non-compliance by schools, coaches, or students could be included, along with enforcement mechanisms.

Note: The precise language, thresholds, definitions (e.g., how “sex” is defined for eligibility), and any timelines are not provided in the summary. The bill’s content should be reviewed directly to identify exact provisions and scope.

Who would be affected

  • Student-athletes enrolled in Missouri K-12 schools and higher education institutions who participate in organized athletic contests categorized by sex.
  • School districts, charter schools, and higher education institutions responsible for verifying and enforcing athletic eligibility.
  • School athletic directors, coaches, and administrators who administer participation rules and maintain eligibility records.
  • Missouri high school athletic associations and collegiate athletic organizations that oversee sex-segregated competitions.
  • Families and students seeking to participate in sports and any students challenging eligibility determinations.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Prefiled in December 2025, suggesting initial drafting and potential early topic discussion.
  • First reading in the Missouri House on January 7, 2026.
  • Second reading in the House on January 8, 2026, indicating potential progression through committee and floor debate.
  • Referred to the Emerging Issues (H) committee on May 15, 2026, signaling attention to new or evolving policy issues within education and athletics.
  • As of the current record, the bill has not yet become law; it would require passage by both chambers and assent by the governor, plus any potential committee amendments or conference actions.

Practical considerations for stakeholders

  • Schools would need to review and possibly revise athletic eligibility policies to align with the bill’s guidelines.
  • Families and students should monitor how the bill defines “sex,” eligibility criteria, and any appeal processes to understand potential impacts on participation.
  • Coaches and administrators may need training on new verification procedures and documentation requirements.
  • Legislative changes often prompt associated rules or guidance from Missouri state education departments or athletic associations; stakeholders should anticipate implementing regulations if the bill advances.

For a precise understanding, a line-item read of the bill’s text is recommended to identify exact definitions, eligibility standards, timelines, enforcement, and any exemptions.

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

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