South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has called on Congress to maintain protections for women in college sports. In a recent letter, Jackley emphasized the importance of ensuring that provisions supporting the privacy, safety, and opportunities for female student-athletes remain intact in the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 as it moves through the legislative process.
Attorney General’s Advocacy for Women’s Sports
Jackley expressed his longstanding belief that men should not participate in women’s sports, citing South Dakota’s law that prohibits such participation. He stated, “South Dakota is one of 27 states not to allow men to play on women’s sports teams,” underscoring his commitment to safeguarding the rights of women student-athletes at state universities.
The letter addressed to Congressional leaders underscores a collective stance among Jackley and 14 other state attorneys general, including the attorney general from North Dakota, in advocating for the protection of women in sports. This alignment reflects a growing movement among various states to preserve the integrity of women’s athletics at the collegiate level.
As the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 progresses through Congress, the emphasis remains on ensuring that any revisions to the bill include robust provisions for the protection of female athletes. Jackley’s advocacy comes amid a broader national discussion regarding gender participation in sports and the implications it has for fairness and equity in athletic competition.
Why It Matters: Jackley’s efforts reflect ongoing debates over gender inclusivity in sports, particularly at the collegiate level. The outcome of the Protect College Sports Act could significantly impact policies regarding women’s athletics, affecting opportunities, funding, and safety for female student-athletes across the nation.
