West Florida News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) announced the advancement of his legislation, H.R. 7187 The Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act, as the House Judiciary Committee, led by Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), approved the bill by a narrow vote of 16-15.

In a statement, Rep. Steube expressed his gratitude towards the committee for their support, stating, "Today’s committee action is a step towards safeguarding women’s sports for generations to come. The mainstream Democratic party continues to push radical, anti-women policies at the expense of female athletes at every competition level. I thank my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee for supporting legislation today that honors the integrity of USA Women’s Olympic events and amateur sporting competitions. I urge swift floor action."

The legislation aims to adjust eligibility requirements for amateur sports governing organizations to prevent any governing body recognized by the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) from permitting men to participate in female athletic events. This move comes in response to concerns about the inclusion of male athletes in women's sports, which some argue could compromise the fairness and integrity of competitions.

The need for such legislation was underscored by recent policy changes made by USA Boxing, which now allows male boxers to compete in the female category under specific conditions. This shift has raised concerns about the safety and fairness of women athletes in the sport.

Under the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act, the U.S. Olympic Committee has the authority to recognize governing bodies for individual sports, with USA Boxing being the recognized governing body for boxing.

The Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act is seen as a crucial step in upholding the principles of fair play and ensuring a level playing field for female athletes in the realm of Olympic and amateur sports.