On Saturday, Congressman Joe Morelle announced he will cosponsor the GOALS (Give Our Athletes Level Salaries) Act.

Just months before claiming their second straight World Cup title, 28 members of the Women's National Team filed suit against the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) for alleged discrimination in relation to pay equity.

The legislation would block federal funding from the 2026 Men's World Cup until the USSF pays the women's team fair and equitable wages. The tournament is being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

"I want my granddaughters and every young woman here today to grow up knowing they are just as talented, capable, and valued as their male counterparts. And that starts at the top by ensuring their role models are treated equally and with the same respect they deserve," Morelle said.

"That makes me feel better about things that people are stepping up and trying to help," said Ava Fedele, a young player from Chili.

The issue of equal pay was addressed in 2015 by members of the women's national team, including Rochester native Abby Wambach. Both sides negotiated a collective bargaining agreement.

"The U.S. Women's National team was paid better but not equal, far from equal," said Nazareth College Women's Soccer Head Coach Gail Mann. "The difference this time is people are listening."

According to the congressman, the women's national team earned as little as 38 cents on the dollar compared to the men's team, despite bringing in more revenue.