House Republicans Push Bill to Define Biological Sex, Sparking Democratic Opposition
House Republicans have advanced a bill aimed at clarifying Title IX by defining 'sex' as biologically determined, a move they argue will protect female students. The bill, known as the Title IX Clarification Act of 2026, seeks to codify the Supreme Court's recent ruling that upheld state laws banning transgender athletes from competing in teams that align with their gender identity. The bill defines 'female' and 'male' based on biological characteristics, which Democrats argue could strip transgender students of their rights under Title IX, including participation in gender-affirming athletics and protection from discrimination in admissions and counseling. The Education and Workforce Committee passed the bill along party lines, with Democrats labeling it as the 'Bully Empowerment Act,' claiming it would empower harassment against LGBTQ+ students. The bill's advancement has sparked heated debates, highlighting the ongoing ideological divide over LGBTQ+ rights within the U.S. legislative framework. 
