Michigan House Bill HJRL

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/13/25
• Refer: 8/13/25

Caption

Recreation: athletics and sports; determining classification of athletic events based on the biological sex of the participant assigned at birth; allow. Amends the state constitution by adding sec. 29 to art. l.

Summary

House Joint Resolution L proposes a constitutional amendment to the Michigan Constitution that would allow eligibility for participation in athletic events to be determined based on sex. The resolution states that when the state, a local government, an accrediting organization, or an interscholastic athletic association operating in Michigan conducts or funds an athletic event, participation may be limited according to sex rather than gender identity or procedures intended to alter sex characteristics to align with gender identity. The resolution also defines “sex” as the state of being female or male, described as an innate, objective, biological condition identified at birth. If adopted, the amendment would be submitted to voters at the next general election and would become part of the state constitution only if approved by the electorate.

Impact

If approved by voters, the proposal would amend Article I of the Michigan Constitution and create a direct constitutional basis for sex-based eligibility rules in athletic events covered by the state, local governments, and certain athletic organizations. It would also authorize private enforcement: any individual could sue for declaratory, injunctive, or monetary relief in the circuit court of the county where the plaintiff resides, and prevailing plaintiffs would be entitled to attorney fees, costs, and disbursements. The amendment would affect schools, athletic associations, and other entities that run or fund sports competitions in Michigan by limiting the use of gender identity as a basis for participation decisions.

Sentiment

The available record shows no committee transcripts or recorded votes, so there is no documented legislative debate or formal vote history to gauge support or opposition. Based on the text and caption, the resolution is framed as a policy measure focused on sex-based athletic classification, which typically draws strong support from proponents of single-sex sports categories and strong opposition from advocates for transgender inclusion. Because no discussion excerpts are provided, the overall sentiment cannot be measured from committee or floor proceedings in this record.

Contention

The main point of contention is whether athletic eligibility should be determined strictly by biological sex at birth or whether gender identity should be considered. Supporters are likely to argue that the amendment preserves fairness and competitive balance in sports, while opponents are likely to argue that it discriminates against transgender athletes and could conflict with inclusion policies. Another notable issue is the enforcement mechanism: the resolution creates a private right of action with attorney fees for prevailing plaintiffs, which could expose schools, associations, and public entities to litigation and increase compliance concerns.