Congresswoman Beatty Issues Statement Condemning House GOP Passing ‘Child Predator Empowerment Act’

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement denouncing the passing of a Republican bill that will subject young girls and women to invasive personal questions and physical inspections from adult strangers in order to ban trans children from participating in school sports teams.

Let's be clear-H.R. 28 is not about protection. This bill doesn't empower women and girls; it puts them at risk by enabling sexually invasive and harmful practices disguised as fairness. Worse, it opens the door to sexual predatory behavior that could harm all students. Unlike some members of the Ohio delegation, I refuse to ignore this danger however it arises. As a proud Ohio State University sports fan, I support our student-athletes being able to compete with excellence and equity. As a mother and grandmother, I understand the importance of protecting young athletes and ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive. These conversations should continue to take place where they've always taken place, with parents, schools, experts, and sports authorities.

Sports play a critical role in students' lives-teaching teamwork, discipline, and fostering friendships that last a lifetime. While House Democrats stand for fairness and safety in youth sports, H.R. 28 does the opposite. It compromises the physical well-being of girls, politicizes identity, and puts every child at risk. Any player could be subjected to invasive questions about their gender, whether from an opposing team or even their own

Out of 500,000 NCAA student-athletes, fewer than 10 are transgender. Organizations like the NCAA already have fair and comprehensive standards in place to ensure all young athletes have a level playing field.

This bill endangers children and undermines the innocence and joy of sports. I strongly oppose H.R. 28 to protect the children in our community, and protect the innocence of their play.

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