Rep. John McGuire introduces 'Riley Gaines Act' on transgender athletes in women’s sports

WASHINGTON, Va. (WSET) — Republican Congressman John McGuire has introduced legislation he said would protect female athletes if transgender athletes compete in women’s sports and "cause harm or lost opportunities."

McGuire is calling the proposal the 'Riley Gaines Act,' named after former National Collegiate Athletic Association swimmer Riley Gaines, who has been outspoken against transgender participation in women’s sports.

McGuire said the bill would allow female athletes to take legal action if they are physically harmed or lose opportunities, such as scholarships or roster spots, because a transgender athlete was allowed to compete in a women’s event.

"Men have denser bones, stronger muscles,” McGuire said. “It’s the first time we’ve seen legislation that actually protects the victim of these ridiculous decisions.”

If a female athlete successfully sues under the proposed law, the bill would allow them to recover damages, including compensation for lost scholarships or professional opportunities, as well as attorney’s fees.

The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives. It would need to pass both chambers of Congress before it could be signed into law.