1-minute voter guide: Proposition 134 on the Colorado ballot
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Proposition 134 asks Colorado voters whether biological sex should determine who can play on girls' and women's school sports teams.
Why it matters: The measure would create a statewide rule from elementary school through college — including intramural sports — that requires athletes to compete based on their biological sex, rather than gender identity.
The big picture: Colorado schools have different policies governing transgender athletes.
- The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) recognizes transgender athletes' right to compete on teams matching their gender identity, but leaving eligibility decisions to schools and districts.
- Several districts have adopted stricter rules. CHSAA doesn't track how many transgender athletes compete statewide.
How it works: Proposition 134 would require schools to classify teams as male, female or mixed.
- Students could play on teams matching their biological sex, as the measure defines it, or on mixed teams.
- The measure defines sex based on reproductive systems associated with ova or sperm production.
- Girls could compete on boys' teams if no equivalent girls' team exists.
The fine print: Proposition 134 doesn't prescribe how schools should verify students' sex.
- Opponents warn those checks could subject athletes — including those who aren't transgender — to added scrutiny.
What they're saying: Protect Kids Colorado supports the measure, arguing it would safeguard fairness and safety in girls' sports.
The other side: Opponents, including Families Not Politics and One Colorado, say the measure gives government too much control over school sports and could lead to intrusive eligibility checks.
The bottom line: Public school districts would face state enforcement, but the measure doesn't spell out a mechanism for private schools, colleges, universities or athletic associations.