Georgia’s own Riley Gaines Act was finally signed recently by Governor Brian Kemp. The bill is known as the Fair and Safe Athletic Opportunities Act. It effectively bans transgender athletes from competing with biological females.
The bill amends Title 20 of the annotated code of Georgia relating to education. It provides for competitively fair and safe student participation in middle school, high school, and college sports.
This bill essentially prohibits males from participating in interscholastic and intercollegiate competitions on teams designated for females. It does this by requiring specific designations of teams operated or sponsored by local school systems, public schools, and private schools.
It also prohibits females from participating in competition on intercollegiate teams designated as male.
Kemp took to X to discuss the importance of the bill and celebrate its passage. He framed the bill as an effort to make schools and education safer.
He also stated how this issue is personal to him due to two of his children being school-aged.
Kemp stated, “Our children deserve a safe and fair environment in which to learn and compete, without the fear of violence or political agendas. Today, I was proud to sign legislation that will further safeguard our schools and improve the overall quality of education in Georgia.”
Lt. Gov. Burt Jones concurred with Kemp and expressed gratitude for the elected officials who pushed the bill forward. He concluded that the bill represents Georgia’s commitment to healthy school environments and the protection of womens’ sports.
Jones commented, “A secure and safe school environment fosters improved student academic performance, along with their overall well-being. Additionally, Senate Bill 1 becoming law ensures the protection of women's sports and I am proud that the Senate led the way for this bill to become law.”
Attorney General Chris Carr applauded the passage of the bill as well. He also stated that the bill represents Georgia’s commitment to protecting students and keeping school environments safe.
Carr stated, “Proud to join (Gov. Kemp), (Jon Burns) & all our partners for the signing of several critical measures that will enhance the safety of our schools & ensure fairness in women’s sports.”
