California's existing laws regarding transgender athletes in sports will not change following a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld state laws protecting women's sports from participation by biological males. A spokesperson for California Governor Gavin Newsom's office confirmed that the decision "does not affect California's laws" and that the state "remains committed to ensuring every Californian, including the LGBTQ community, is met with dignity and respect."
The state's current policy, established by a 2013 law signed by then-Governor Jerry Brown, requires transgender students to participate in sports consistent with their gender identity. This places California among approximately 22 states with similar laws.
The Supreme Court's 6-3 decision affirmed the right of states to enact legislation that safeguards women's sports, a move that Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated was necessary to protect the fairness, opportunities, and safety of female athletes. McMahon criticized Democrats for what she described as their dismissal of these concerns, emphasizing the Trump administration's dedication to women's rights under Title IX.
Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, California's stance is consistent with its legal framework. However, the state has faced controversy and national attention regarding transgender athletes in girls' sports. In May, transgender athlete AB Hernandez won two state track and field titles for the second consecutive year. This event was preceded by protests led by activists advocating for the exclusion of transgender girls from women's sports. A statement from Newsom's office at the time asserted that discussions on the issue should be guided by "fairness, dignity, and respect," and accused opponents of attempting to "weaponize this debate as an excuse to vilify individual kids."
This statement drew backlash, and further controversy arose when the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) reportedly adjusted podium placements, with girls who finished behind Hernandez being moved up one spot. Imagery of Hernandez sharing podiums with second-place female finishers circulated widely.
The U.S. Department of Justice under the Trump administration had previously initiated Title IX lawsuits against California educational agencies over policies permitting transgender athletes in girls' high school sports. These actions followed Hernandez's victories in state championships.
Governor Newsom himself has previously expressed complex views on the matter. In March 2025, he reportedly stated on a podcast that he believed males competing in girls' sports was "deeply unfair." Later, in July 2025, he discussed the issue on the "Shawn Ryan Show," expressing frustration with parents' concerns at his children's soccer games and noting that even "progressively-minded people" who support transgender policy found the sports participation issue problematic. Newsom also mentioned conversations with former President Donald Trump on the topic, indicating Trump's enjoyment of the political situation, with Newsom stating, "And now he's suing and threatening us, and they're just, and you know, I'm the poster child."