Carbondale Reporter

The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus, in collaboration with House Republican colleagues, has reached out to the Executive Director of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) seeking clarification on policies regarding transgender athletes in high school sports. The lawmakers are looking for assurance that IHSA's policies will align with recent federal directives focused on maintaining fairness in high school athletics, specifically concerning single-sex sports for female athletes.

The correspondence from the Republicans emphasizes the necessity for Illinois' policies to be consistent with federal guidelines that prevent students from participating in single-sex sports based on gender identity if it does not match their birth sex. The lawmakers have requested a written response from IHSA detailing how they plan to update their policies to meet federal requirements while ensuring fairness and competitive balance in girls’ and women’s sports.

State Senator Terri Bryant of Murphysboro is among those who signed the letter. She stresses the importance of safeguarding the integrity of high school athletics throughout Illinois. "Female athletes deserve a level playing field where fairness and safety are upheld," stated 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 keen to ensure equitable competition opportunities for all athletes in state high schools and await a response from IHSA.