Virginia authority on health proposes limitations for biologically male participants in female-exclusive athletic squads
Virginia Board of Health Grants Petition to Protect Female Athletes and Spaces
The Virginia Board of Health has granted a petition for rulemaking that aims to prevent biological males from participating in organized female-only athletic teams and competitions in Virginia. The petition, addressed to the Virginia Board of Health, was formally requested by three female athletes: Réka György, Lily Mullens, and Carter Satterfield.
The petitioners stated that they have been directly harmed by males competing in female collegiate sports, and it was submitted to prevent further physical and psychological harm to females. The petition was made under Va. Code 2.2-4007 and seeks to add and/or amend regulations within 12 VAC 5.
The first stage in the regulatory process is a Notice of Regulatory Action (NOIRA), which has already been initiated. After executive branch review and publication in the Virginia Register of Regulations, there will be a public comment period. The standard rulemaking process typically takes 18-24 months.
The Virginia Department of Health remains committed to making Virginia the healthiest state in the nation. Maria Reppas, Director of Communications, Virginia Department of Health, stated that the vote was based on a thorough assessment of the petition's merits.
The petition also seeks to prevent biological males from using designated female spaces where females are likely to be in any state of undress, such as bathrooms and locker rooms. The Department's staff will work closely with legal counsel in developing draft language for the petition. Once the draft language is ready, it will be brought to the Board for approval.
After the public comment period, the regulation would become effective following a 30-day period. The Virginia Board of Health members present at the meeting voted unanimously to approve the petition, with one member absent.
This decision comes as a response to the concerns raised by the petitioners, citing the public health of Virginians, particularly women and girls. The petitioners and supporters hope this regulation will ensure fairness and safety in female-only athletic events and spaces in Virginia.
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