For Immediate Release: 06-30-2026
Contact: Josue Sierra, media@indlawcenter.org
Direct: 202-430-0282 Supreme Court Affirms States’ Authority to Protect Fairness in Girls’ Athletics
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision in Little v. Hecox and State of West Virginia v. B.P.J. is a major victory for common sense, fairness in girls’ athletics, and the ability of states and local school leaders to protect students.
The following statement can be attributed to Randall Wenger, Esq., Chief Counsel at Independence Law Center:
“The Court’s decision is a decisive win for equal opportunity for women and girls. Title IX was never intended to erase sex distinctions in athletics; it was enacted to protect female athletes and ensure fair competition.
For too long, schools have been pressured to accept the lie that recognizing biological sex is discriminatory. But this ruling sends an important message to school districts across the country: policies recognizing biological sex in athletics are lawful, constitutional, and consistent with longstanding American legal principles.”
The following statement can be attributed to Emily Kreps, Former Student Athlete and Director of Legal Operations:
“This decision confirms what parents, athletes, and many lawmakers have been saying for years: protecting girls’ sports is lawful, reasonable, and necessary.
Pennsylvania had the chance to lead on this issue, but statewide protections were vetoed. Now, with the Supreme Court providing clear legal guidance, the House should move quickly to pass SB 9 to get it to Governor Shapiro and ensure girls across the Commonwealth are guaranteed fair athletic competition.
Female athletes should not have to wait any longer for protections other states already recognize as common sense.”
About Independence Law Center
The Independence Law Center is a pro-bono civil rights and public policy law firm.
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To arrange an interview, contact Josue Sierra at jsierra@indlawcenter.org or by calling 202-430-0282.
