This bill, known as the "Riley Gaines Act" , establishes a new federal cause of action. It permits female student athletes to file civil lawsuits against institutions of higher education and athletic associations. These lawsuits can be brought if an institution or association negligently or recklessly permits a biologically male student athlete to compete in an athletic competition intended exclusively for female student athletes . The female athlete must have suffered physical injury due to the inherent physiological advantages of the biologically male competitor. The bill allows for the recovery of various damages, including the value of lost scholarships or professional opportunities . Furthermore, a prevailing plaintiff in such a civil action will be awarded reasonable attorney's fees.