Title
Consideration of a Resolution Expressing the City Council’s Collective Opposition to the Passage of Initiative to the Legislature 26-638 Concerning Athletics at K-12 Public Schools
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Accept testimony from everyone who wishes to speak for or against the Initiative to the Legislature 26-638.
Motion if Council wishes to oppose the Initiative:
Move to Adopt the Resolution Expressing City Council Opposition to Initiative to the Legislature 26-638.
No action is needed if Council does not wish to adopt the Resolution.
Report
Issue:
Whether to oppose Initiative to the Legislature 26-638 (IL26-638) concerning athletics at K-12 public schools.
Staff Contact:
Mark Barber, City Attorney, 360-753-8338
Presenter(s):
None
Background and Analysis:
IL26-638, filed in 2025 as an initiative to the Legislature, was not acted upon during the 2026 Regular Session and will therefore appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for voter approval or rejection.
The impact of IL26-638 would require all female students, and only female students, who wish to participate in interscholastic athletics to provide, as part of the required routine sports physical examination, undertake additional physical, genetic, or hormonal tests in order to be determined as not “biologically male,” as defined by the Initiative’s language.
In 2025, the City Council passed Resolution No. M-2591, declaring Olympia’s commitment to fostering a community where all individuals are treated with dignity, equity, and respect, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation or gender expression, by declaring the City to be an inviting, equitable and safe community for LGBTQIA2S+ people.
Pursuant to RCW 42.17A.555(1), any action taken by the Council to express its collective decision to support or oppose a ballot proposition must be done at an open public meeting with an opportunity for anyone to comment prior to Council action in support or opposition to the ballot measure.
Climate Analysis:
IL26-638 does not impact the environment.
Equity Analysis:
The City of Olympia is committed to fostering a community where all individuals are treated with dignity, equity, and respect, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. One way in which the City demonstrates an ongoing commitment to community and City Council values is to support or oppose legislation that promotes discrimination, harm, or inequity.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The public hearing related to the proposed resolution provides an opportunity for members of the public to express their views on the initiative before the City Council takes any action on the resolution.
Financial Impact:
None.
Options:
1. Approve the Resolution.
2. Approve the Resolution with modifications.
3. Do not approve the Resolution.
Attachments:
Resolution