Missouri Senate Bill 39

Missouri Senate Bill 39 , also known as the Save Women's Sports Act, is a 2023 law in the state of Missouri that prohibits transgender Missourians from competing in school sports leagues that do not align with their biological sex. It was signed into law by Governor Mike Parson on June 7, 2023. The bill will expire on August 28, 2027, four years after its entry into force.
Senate Bill 39, along with Senate Bill 49, have been accused of being discriminatory or anti-transgender. As of September 2024, there are few policies in place to enforce Senate Bill 39 in Missouri schools. Three bills were introduced in 2025 to remove the expiration provision on Senate Bill 39.

Provisions

Senate Bill 39 prohibits student athletes of any gender or sex from competing in school sports that do not align with the sex on their birth certificate. It applies to K-12 schools, private schools, and higher education facilities such as colleges. An exception is included for those assigned female at birth as long as the sport does not have a female-only league. Schools that violate Senate Bill 39 will have their state funding revoked. Missourians would also not be allowed to compete against other teams if they do not have a similar policy in place.