Supreme Court weighs transgender participation in girls' sports

The Supreme Court heard cases from West Virginia and Idaho challenging state laws that bar people designated male at birth from competing on girls' sports teams; the court has not yet issued a decision.

The Supreme Court heard arguments in cases brought by two transgender students, Becky Pepper-Jackson of West Virginia and Lindsay Hecox of Idaho, who seek to compete on girls' school sports teams. Both West Virginia and Idaho have laws that bar people designated male at birth from participating on girls' teams, and the cases test those state measures. Attorneys for the plaintiffs and state officials presented competing claims about physical differences, medical history, and the effects of the laws on school athletics. The justices heard argument but have not issued a ruling. Key facts: - The cases involve two students from West Virginia and Idaho challenging state bans on people designated male at birth competing on girls' teams. - The article notes those states are among 27 that have adopted similar bans. - Plaintiff attorneys said one student began puberty blockers early and that, in West Virginia, their client may be the only person affected by the law in that state. - The Supreme Court heard oral arguments and no decision has been announced. Summary: A Supreme Court ruling will determine whether these state bans can be enforced and could affect how similar laws are applied elsewhere. Undetermined at this time.