Delaware schools would label sports by sex and limit participation

Covered schools would label sports by sex and limit which teams students may join. The rules cover Delaware school districts, charter schools, and schools in the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association. Schools would use an official birth certificate, or another government record if the certificate cannot be obtained. The sex entry must have been made near birth or changed only to fix a clerical error. A girl could join a boys’ team or sport if no matching girls’ option is offered or available. If enacted, the act would take effect immediately, with schools beginning to use these rules in the 2026–27 school year.

Government bodies and certain oversight and sports groups could not accept complaints, investigate, or penalize schools for following these rules. The protection covers school districts, charter schools, and association member schools when they follow these rules. If enacted, the act would take effect immediately, with implementation beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

Students and schools could sue over specified violations. These lawsuits could involve covered students, schools, and the bodies or organizations named in the proposed rules. Students could sue a school for harm from a team-rule violation or for punishment after reporting one to a school, sports organization, or oversight agency. Schools could sue a body or organization that harms them for following the rules. Those who win could receive damages, legal fees, and other appropriate relief. A lawsuit would have to start within two years after the alleged harm. If enacted, the act would take effect immediately, with implementation beginning in the 2026–27 school year.