Story perspectives

Maine GOP Pushes 2026 Referendum on Transgender Sports Rights

10/25/2025

25 3

Summary

Story summary

Maine Republicans propose a 2026 referendum to limit transgender students' participation in sports and private spaces according to their gender identities.
The proposal requires public schools to label teams as “male” or “female” based on biological sex from birth certificates.
Supporters, including former state Rep. Heidi Sampson, plan to collect about 68,000 signatures by early February to qualify for the ballot.
A Pew Research survey shows that two-thirds of Americans support banning transgender individuals from sports teams that align with their gender identities.
Activists argue this initiative diverts attention from critical issues like healthcare and housing.

1 of 1

Story summary

Maine Republicans propose a 2026 referendum to limit transgender students' participation in sports and private spaces according to their gender identities.
The proposal requires public schools to label teams as “male” or “female” based on biological sex from birth certificates.
Supporters, including former state Rep. Heidi Sampson, plan to collect about 68,000 signatures by early February to qualify for the ballot.
A Pew Research survey shows that two-thirds of Americans support banning transgender individuals from sports teams that align with their gender identities.
Activists argue this initiative diverts attention from critical issues like healthcare and housing.