Supreme Court considers whether states can bar transgender students from sports

The Supreme Court will hear arguments Jan. 13 in two cases that challenge state bans on transgender girls competing in school sports; lower courts have blocked West Virginia’s law and a decision is expected by early summer.

Becky Pepper-Jackson, a 15-year-old West Virginia athlete, could be affected if a state ban on transgender girls competing in girls' sports is allowed to take effect. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on Jan. 13 in two cases that ask whether state bans violate the Constitution or Title IX. One case challenges West Virginia’s law, which has been enjoined by lower courts, and the other involves Idaho and a college student plaintiff. A decision from the justices is expected by early summer. Key facts: - Oral arguments are scheduled for Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. EST before the Supreme Court. - The cases test whether state bans on transgender girls in girls' and women's school sports violate the Constitution or Title IX. - West Virginia’s ban has been blocked by lower courts; the Idaho case was brought by college student Lindsay Hecox. - The court’s ruling is expected by early summer and could influence other state-level policies. Summary: The justices will decide whether state laws that bar transgender girls from girls' and women's sports are consistent with federal anti-discrimination law and the Constitution. Oral arguments occur Jan. 13 and a ruling is expected by early summer. Undetermined at this time is how broadly any decision might be applied to other state measures.