Pro-trans activists hold rally against Washington state ballot initiative to protect girls sports

Washington voters approved Initiative 638, which bars students recorded as biologically male from competing in girls’ K–12 interscholastic sports and requires medical verification for girls’ team eligibility. Transgender-rights supporters rallied in Seattle against the measure, arguing it discriminates against transgender students and risks intrusive checks; supporters say it protects fairness and opportunities for female athletes.

The initiative had 56.8% support in returns reported on Thursday, though ballots were still being counted. Its verification requirement can be met through a routine sports physical and a form or healthcare-provider statement based on reproductive anatomy, genetics or naturally produced testosterone; the text does not specify a particular test. Advocacy groups were considering legal options, while the state’s interscholastic sports association was reviewing how schools should implement the rules.