Del. Senator to introduce Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act

DOVER, Del. – Senator Bryant Richardson has announced his intention to re-introduce the Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act.

Senate Bill 191 claims to “enforce a level-playing field for female student-athletes,” requiring individuals to participate in a sport associated with their biological sex.

“With the rise of male students participating in female sports across the nation, it is important we protect female athletes in Delaware, guaranteeing fairness and equal opportunity for success,” Senator Richardson said.

The measure was previously introduced in the last legislative session, where it failed to move out of committee.

Committee Chair Senator Sarah McBride at the time called the bill a “cruel solution in search of a problem.” 

Senator Eric Buckson joined Senator Richardson in sponsoring the legislation. Buckson is a former public educator, athletic coach, and current Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association wrestling referee.

“I’ve seen first-hand the physical differences between male and female student-athletes,” Senator Buckson stated. “There are certainly exceptions, but on average, a boy is physically stronger and faster than a girl. We need to do all we can to protect girls and not place female athletes at a competitive disadvantage.”

However, when similar arguments were raised in a 2022 public comment on the legislation last session, Senator McBride said “When you categorically exclude trans students from extracurricular programs consistent with their gender identity, you are categorically excluding an entire group of kids from educational programs that teach teamwork, persistence, and mutual support.”

SB 191 will be formally introduced before the end of this year’s session on June 30, 2023.