Kemp Signs Bills Restricting Transgender Athlete Participation in Georgia Schools

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed the 'Riley Gaines Act,' barring transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports at public schools and colleges, and requiring students to use bathrooms and changing facilities corresponding to their biological sex. Supporters, including Kemp and bill sponsor State Sen. Greg Dolezal, argue that the law preserves fairness and safety in women’s athletics, while opponents and LGBTQ+ rights advocates claim it targets transgender youth and could make schools less inclusive. The law, named after former swimmer Riley Gaines, takes effect July 1 and follows similar measures enacted in over two dozen states. In addition to the sports law, Kemp signed several other education bills addressing school safety, mental health, and absenteeism. Polls suggest broad support among Georgia voters for requiring athletes to play according to their sex assigned at birth, though both sides note a lack of current transgender athletes in Georgia schools. Legal challenges from civil rights groups are possible as schools begin implementing the new rules.