The article discusses Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony’s Task Force to Protect Women’s Sports and their recent concerns raised at the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association NIAA Winter session meeting.
The task force advocates for a policy prohibiting biological men from competing in women’s sports across various levels, from K-12 to professional. The issue has gained attention due to the perceived unfair competition women athletes face, with some expressing concerns over losing opportunities and titles to transgender athletes.
The NIAA, however, currently has no such policy, allowing transgender athletes to compete according to their gender identity, regardless of their birth certificate or medical treatment. The policy includes a review process before participation, with appeals available if a request is denied.
Task force members, including Marshi Smith, a former NCAA champion, and Sparks City Councilwoman Charlene Bybee, emphasize the need to protect women’s sports and uphold the principles of Title IX, which was passed in 1972 to ensure gender equality in athletics.
They also highlight concerns over scholarships potentially being lost to transgender athletes, as expressed by seventh-grade volleyball player Ava Chavez.
The task force plans to continue its advocacy and bring the issue before the Nevada Legislature in February.