39th & 40th District Update: Take Action on SB 215 — Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act

A bill with significant implications for student athletics across Delaware is currently stalled in the Senate Education Committee — and it now hinges on just two votes.

Senate Bill 215, the Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act, sponsored by Senator Bryant Richardson, would require student athletes to compete on teams designated according to their biological sex as determined at or near birth. The bill includes an exception allowing female athletes to compete in male sports if no corresponding female sport is available.

This is Senator Richardson’s third attempt to move similar legislation forward. Previous versions never made it out of committee. Supporters say SB 215 is closer to advancing than ever before.

What’s Happened So Far

• SB 215 was heard in the Senate Education Committee on January 28.

• Committee Chair Senator Laura Sturgeon indicated opposition to releasing the bill.

• In the seven-member committee, four signatures are required to advance the bill to the full Senate.

• Republican members have signed on.

• Two Democratic signatures are now needed for the bill to move forward.

Without those signatures, the bill will remain locked in committee.

What SB 215 Would Do

The bill would:

• Require athletic teams to be designated based on biological sex.

• Require student athletes to compete according to their biological sex.

• Allow female athletes to compete in male sports if no female equivalent exists.

• Apply to public schools, charter schools, and DIAA member schools.

Supporters argue the legislation is about maintaining competitive fairness and preserving opportunities for female athletes.

Why This Matters to the 39th & 40th District

School sports are deeply woven into our local communities. From middle school fields to high school championships, athletics teach teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

For many families in Sussex County, this debate is about fairness in competition and ensuring that girls’ athletic opportunities remain protected.

Regardless of where individuals stand, this decision is now in the hands of the Senate Education Committee — and constituent input may influence whether the bill receives a full Senate vote.

Senators to Contact

The Democratic members of the Senate Education Committee who could determine whether SB 215 advances are:

• Sen. Laura V. Sturgeon (Chair) – Laura.Sturgeon@delaware.gov | (302) 744-4286

• Sen. Elizabeth Lockman (Vice Chair) – Elizabeth.Lockman@delaware.gov | (302) 744-4168

• Sen. Stephanie Hansen – Stephanie.Hansen@delaware.gov | (302) 744-4138

• Sen. Nicole Poore – Nicole.Poore@delaware.gov | (302) 744-4286

• Sen. David P. Sokola – David.Sokola@delaware.gov | (302) 744-4139

Sample Message

Subject: Please Advance SB 215

Hello Senator,

Please allow Senate Bill 215 to move out of committee for a full vote on the Senate floor. Delaware families deserve transparency and fairness in girls’ athletics. Regardless of individual positions, this issue should be debated and decided by the full Senate. Thank you for your time and service.

What Comes Next

This is a pivotal moment. If the bill receives the necessary committee signatures, it will proceed to the Senate floor for debate and a recorded vote. If not, it will remain stalled.

For residents of the 39th and 40th Districts, now is the time to stay informed and make your voice heard.

Engagement matters.