Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued an opinion stating that using steroids for gender transition does not qualify as a “valid medical purpose” under state law for high school athletes.
He urges the University Interscholastic League (UIL) to prohibit student-athletes from using testosterone or other steroids for gender reassignment.
This opinion responds to a request from Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath. Paxton emphasizes that students are banned from taking performance-enhancing drugs unless there’s a recognized medical reason, which, in his view, excludes gender transition.
He suggests that the UIL should closely examine students’ eligibility if there’s suspicion of steroid use for gender transitioning, placing the responsibility on student-athletes to prove compliance before participating in competitions.
Paxton states, “Texas law is designed to protect student-athletes from competing against people taking performance-enhancing drugs under radical ‘gender transition’ theories.”
He adds, “In America, we recognize that there are only two unchangeable genders—male and female.” He calls on Texas schools to adhere to these guidelines to ensure “safe and fair competitions” for all students.
This stance aligns with Paxton’s ongoing position on gender identity in sports. The debate over transgender athletes’ participation in sports has been a contentious issue nationwide, with various states proposing or enacting legislation to restrict transgender individuals’ participation in sports consistent with their gender identity.
Advocates for transgender rights argue that such policies are discriminatory and harm transgender youth by excluding them from important aspects of school life.
They emphasize the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students, regardless of gender identity.
As this issue continues to evolve, it remains a focal point in discussions about the intersection of sports, law, and gender identity in Texas and across the United States.
