Riley Gaines Act

Term Dictionary

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The gist

  • Lets injured female college athletes sue schools and athletic groups (like the National Collegiate Athletic Association, NCAA) that let transgender women compete in women's sports.

Who wins, who loses

  • Wins: cisgender female college athletes injured in competition; lawyers (mandatory fee awards).
  • Loses: transgender female athletes facing exclusion; colleges and the NCAA exposed to costly federal lawsuits.

What it does

  • Creates a federal civil lawsuit right in U.S. district courts.
  • Requires proof of negligence or recklessness plus physical injury from 'inherent physiological advantages.
  • Damages cover medical harm, lost scholarships, and lost professional opportunities.
  • Forces courts to award attorney's fees to winning plaintiffs.

Why should I care?

Supporters say cisgender women deserve legal protection and fair, safe competition in sports designed for them. Critics argue the bill targets transgender athletes unfairly and could chill inclusive policies at colleges nationwide. An alternative being debated: clearer NCAA eligibility rules based on hormone levels rather than lawsuits. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.

What do you think about this bill?

Vote to see who sponsored it!

Bill ID: hr7368-119
Congress Session: 119
Date Processed: 2026-07-24 05:37:28 (UTC)
Introduced: 2026-02-04
Status: Introduced