The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus, alongside House Republican colleagues, today sent a letter to the Executive Director of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) requesting clarification on the organization’s policies regarding transgender athletes in high school sports.
Republican lawmakers are seeking confirmation that IHSA will be enacting policies that align with recent federal directives ensuring fairness in high school athletics, specifically protecting single-sex sports for female athletes. The letter highlights the need for Illinois’ policies to comply with federal guidelines that prohibit students from participating in single-sex sports based on gender identity if it does not align with their birth sex.
In their letter, the Republican lawmakers requested a written response detailing how IHSA plans to update its policies to align with federal requirements while maintaining fairness and competitive balance in girls’ and women’s sports.
State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) signed onto the letter to the IHSA and believes that it’s important to protect the integrity of high school athletics across Illinois.
“Female athletes deserve a level playing field where fairness and safety are upheld,” said Senator Bryant. “Ensuring that sports remain competitive and fair is essential for preserving opportunities for young women in athletics. The IHSA must provide clear answers to how they are making sure that our state’s sports are following federal guidelines and protecting the integrity of girls and women’s sports.”
Illinois Republican Senators are eager to ensure that all athletes have a fair opportunity to compete in Illinois high schools and are looking forward to IHSA’s response.