Young female athletes in Washington schools would likely have to obtain genital exams to participate in school sports, if a controversial ballot initiative passes in November.

According to the initiative, students would have several options to confirm their sex: a visual genital exam, a lab test to determine their genetic makeup, or an analysis of testosterone levels in the blood. The genital exam, which a medical professional can conduct without touching the child, would likely be the most accessible option for most kids.

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Conservative hedge fund manager Brian Heywood and his political action committee Let’s Go Washington are backing the measure.

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Heywood said he didn’t believe his initiative would add anything new to existing medical requirements for student athletes, a position he also stated to KUOW in September 2025, shortly after launching the measure.