Problem Solvers-Endorsed Billie Jean King Congressional Gold Medal Act Signed Into Law
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, President Joe Biden signed the Billie Jean King Congressional Gold Medal Act into law. The bipartisan measure grants the highest civilian award given by the U.S. Congress to Billie Jean King, honoring her remarkable career and tireless devotion to championing equal rights in sports and in society.
The legislation was introduced by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and has 295 additional cosponsors, 56 of whom are Members of the Problem Solvers Caucus. The bill was brought forward for Caucus endorsement by Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Congressmen Fitzpatrick and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and was officially endorsed last year.
One of the most decorated tennis players of all time, Billie Jean King is a trailblazer for gender equality and social justice. She played an instrumental role in the passage of Title IX and led efforts to secure equal pay for female professional tennis players. In 2009, Billie Jean King was the first female athlete to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“Billie Jean King: American icon, legendary athlete, trailblazer, ardent advocate—and now, Congressional Gold Medal recipient. I am proud to have authored and led this bipartisan effort with Rep. Sherrill to award the indomitable Billie Jean with the Congressional Gold Medal for her lifetime of advocacy and leadership in the pursuit of equality. Throughout her life, Billie Jean has broken barriers, led uncharted paths, and inspired countless people to stand proudly with conviction and fight for what is right. I thank the Problem Solvers Caucus and my colleagues in the House and Senate for their support in getting this legislation across the finish line. Now, with this Congressional Medal, we can cement Billie Jean's legacy as both a champion of tennis and equality whose impact will continue to inspire and empower future generations,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).
“Billie Jean King has been a trailblazing hero for women, girls, and athletes nationwide. Her courage has helped boost equality for female athletes and move our country forward,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05). “I’m honored to have helped lead this bipartisan legislation and recognize this American champion for her lifetime of achievements and her tireless fight for women’s rights.”
The full text of the bill can be found here.
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The Problem Solvers Caucus, which is Co-Chaired by Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), has sixty-two Members evenly split between Republicans and Democrats.