HHS Finds Maine Violates Title IX Over Transgender Sports Policy

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has determined that Maine's Department of Education, the Maine Principals’ Association, and Greely High School are in violation of Title IX for allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's sports. The HHS's Office for Civil Rights gave these entities a 10-day ultimatum to resolve the issue or face referral to the U.S. Department of Justice for legal action. This decision stems from President Trump's executive order aimed at preventing biological males from participating in female sports, which has led to conflict with Maine's policies that align with the state's human rights laws. Maine officials, including Governor Janet Mills, have expressed their intention to challenge the federal government's stance in court, asserting that their policies are compliant with state laws. The situation has garnered national attention, particularly after a transgender athlete from Greely High School won a state championship in pole vaulting. The HHS emphasized that compliance with federal law is mandatory for institutions receiving federal funding.