Justices Signal Endorsement of State Rules Limiting Transgender Athletes in Girls’ Sports

The Supreme Court heard challenges to Idaho and West Virginia laws that bar transgender girls and women from competing on teams designated for females, with justices signaling sympathy toward upholding the bans. The cases center on whether sex-based classifications are permissible under Title IX and equal protection, and whether the laws discriminate against transgender athletes. A ruling is expected by late June or early July and could affect participation in girls’ and women’s sports across about 27 states that have enacted similar bans.