Georgia lawmakers pass ‘Riley Gaines Act’ to keep boys out of girls’ sports

The Georgia legislature made headlines on Monday as they passed a controversial bill known as S.B. 1, or the “Riley Gaines Act of 2025,” which aims to prohibit transgender girls, or biological males, from participating in girls’ sports. The bill requires middle school, high school, and college student athletes to compete on sports teams that align with their biological sex. Additionally, restrooms, locker rooms, and sleeping quarters will also be restricted to only allow biological boys in spaces designated for boys and biological girls in spaces designated for girls.

The bill, named after Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer, gained attention after Gaines criticized the participation of biological males in girls’ sports, particularly after competing against Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer. Gaines and other female athletes were forced to share a locker room with Thomas, sparking a national conversation on transgender inclusion in sports.

The bill now awaits Republican Gov. Brian Kemp’s signature, with expectations that he will sign the legislation into law. House Speaker Jon Burns and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, both Republicans, spearheaded the bill’s passage, emphasizing the importance of protecting women’s sports and ensuring fair competition.

In a statement, Burns highlighted the message sent by the General Assembly, stating that “biological men are not welcome in girls’ sports or spaces here in Georgia.” Jones echoed this sentiment, calling the bill a historic step towards protecting women’s sports and thanking the brave women and girls who shared their stories to shape the legislation.

The passage of the bill coincided with Transgender Day of Visibility, a day where transgender individuals and their allies come together to march and rally against legislation targeting LGBTQ+ people. More than 25 other states have already implemented similar bans on biological males participating in girls’ sports, reflecting a national shift on the issue.

As the “Riley Gaines Act of 2025” moves closer to becoming law in Georgia, it represents a significant moment in the ongoing debate over transgender inclusion in sports and the protection of women’s rights in athletic competition. The bill’s passage reflects the voices of female athletes like Gaines, who continue to advocate for fairness and equal opportunities in sports.