Maine election officials have removed a proposed ballot initiative that would have restricted transgender athletes from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity. The measure, which sought to ban transgender girls and women from female sports teams, was dropped after failing to gather enough valid signatures to qualify for the ballot.
According to the Maine Secretary of State's office, the initiative's sponsors submitted signatures, but a review found an insufficient number of valid ones to meet the threshold required for a citizen-initiated referendum. The deadline for submission was in early 2026, and the verification process concluded in late May 2026.
Supporters of the measure argued it was necessary to protect fairness in women's sports, while opponents said it discriminated against transgender youth. The decision means the issue will not appear on the November 2026 ballot in Maine.
This development follows a national trend of debates over transgender participation in sports, with several states enacting laws on the issue. Maine currently does not have a law restricting transgender athletes, and the Maine Principals' Association allows participation based on gender identity.
