ADF seeks to defend Washington girls’ sports measure, argues state cannot fully represent female athletes

Alliance Defending Freedom has asked a Washington court to let Female Athletes United join the defence of Initiative 638, a voter-approved measure on girls’ school sports. The group argues the state may not fully represent female athletes’ interests; the judge has not yet ruled on its request.

The initiative would bar students described in the measure as biologically male from girls’ school competitions and require sex verification from a healthcare provider during sports physicals. Its opponents, including parents, TransFamilies and the Washington Education Association, argue it violates state constitutional protections. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has appointed an outside law firm to defend the measure, which is due to take effect on 3 December; the motion cites declarations from five athletes.