Committee approves bill limiting intercollegiate competition by sex; opponents cite fairness and administrative concerns

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Senate Education Committee on Jan. 17 approved Senate File 44, which would require students at the University of Wyoming and Wyoming community colleges to compete in intercollegiate athletics according to the biological sex listed on official birth records or other government documentation.

Chairwoman Schueller introduced the bill and said she and others had worked with college officials while drafting the language. The bill’s original broader definition of “athletic competition” prompted questions; the committee adopted an amendment to limit the definition to “intercollegiate athletic competition,” a change sponsors said reflected their intent.

Senator Landon and others who supported the bill said it is intended to preserve fairness and safety for biological female athletes. Several college athletes and…