The People’s Initiatives
Giving parents a voice and protecting fairness in girls’ sports.
Initiatives IL26-001 and IL26-638 are citizen-led proposals that earned hundreds of thousands of signatures from Washington residents who wanted their voices heard. Through the initiative process, citizens placed these measures directly before the Legislature to address issues they believe deserve action. These initiatives represent strong public engagement and grassroots support across the state. Below, you’ll find a summary of what each proposal would accomplish, how the Legislature responded, and why many Washingtonians believe these reforms are important for families and communities.
Initiative IL26-638 –
Protecting Fairness in Girls’ Sports
What is it?
This initiative aims to protect the integrity of girls’ interscholastic sports.
What does it do?
- Requires students to compete based on their biological sex as verified during routine sports physicals.
- Prohibits biologically male students from competing in female-only athletic activities.
- Verification is done by a healthcare provider using anatomy, genetics, or testosterone levels.
- Important: No pelvic exams are required.
Why it matters:
It ensures fairness and equal opportunity for female athletes.
Click to view full bill summary
Signatures submitted on IL26-6348 = 445,187
Initiative IL26-001 –
Restoring Parental Rights in Schools
What is it?
This initiative reinstates the original Parents’ Bill of Rights adopted in 2024, after some provisions were removed in 2025.
What does it do?
It recognizes parents as the primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing and guarantees 15 key rights, including:
- Access to information: Review instructional materials and access student records.
- Notification: Be informed about medical treatments, school absences, and law enforcement interactions.
- Opt-out options: Parents can opt children out of certain surveys and activities involving personal or family beliefs.
- Transparency: Receive school calendars, fee notices, and dress code policies.
- Protection: Assurance that schools will not discriminate against students based on religious beliefs.
Why it matters:
This initiative ensures transparency and partnership between schools and families.
Click to view full bill summary
Signatures submitted on IL26-001 = 418,666
Legislative Listening Sessions
Because the majority would not grant either initiative a hearing, Senate and House Republicans held listening sessions. Athletes, parents, teachers, counselors and others shared their personal stories about why they support one initiative or the other…or both. Listen to the commentary.
