State Representative Selina Bliss has introduced a ballot referral to designate Arizona school sports as male, female, or co-ed. The proposal, known as HCR2003 or the Protect Girls’ Sports in Arizona Act, aims to restore and strengthen the 2022 Save Women’s Sports Act, which faced legal challenges from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. If approved, the resolution will be placed on the November 2026 ballot.
“Sports designations must be clear and grounded in basic fairness,” said Representative Bliss. “My referral requires teams and competitions in Arizona schools and sports associations to be designated as male, female, or co-ed. This lets every student compete safely and on fair terms.” The initiative mandates that team placements are based on the sex listed on an athlete’s original birth certificate and introduces additional privacy protections for girls’ facilities.
Bliss emphasized her personal connection to athletics: “As someone who competed in athletics and as a mother who watched her daughter compete, I understand the value of a fair field of play.” She believes that sports should foster confidence and discipline among young people while ensuring fair competition for girls.
The measure follows similar actions in 27 states and addresses inconsistent rules due to ongoing litigation. The United States Supreme Court is expected to address this issue next year. Bliss remarked, “Voters should decide this issue and give young women the opportunities they deserve.”
Selina Bliss is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives representing Legislative District 1 in Yavapai County. She was elected in 2023 to replace Judy Burges.
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