H.B. 527 Summary

• Requires all Ohio schools participating in interscholastic athletics to designate separate teams for female participants, male participants, and co-ed participants based on biological sex.

• Prohibits male individuals from participating on athletic teams designated only for female participants.

• Requires disputed sex eligibility to be established by physician's statement documenting internal and external reproductive anatomy, endogenous testosterone levels, and genetic makeup.

• Applies the same sex-based team designation requirements to state institutions of higher education and private colleges that participate in NCAA, NAIA, or NJCAA athletics.

• Creates private cause of action for athletes deprived of athletic opportunities, participants facing retaliation, and schools harmed by violations; lawsuits must be filed within two years and prevailing parties may recover damages, attorney's fees, and other relief.