Federal Investigation Probes Minnesota Transgender Athlete Policy

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights has launched a Title IX investigation into the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota State High School League for allowing a transgender male athlete, Charlie ‘Marissa’ Rothenberger, to compete on girls' sports teams, including leading a softball team to a state championship. The investigation examines whether Minnesota violated federal law by permitting male athletes to participate in female sports, which federal officials argue undermines fair and safe opportunities for females as protected under Title IX. This investigation follows similar federal scrutiny in California and aligns with President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at banning transgender girls and women from female sports, a move that has faced legal challenges. Minnesota state authorities have been advised to follow state law permitting participation based on gender identity, despite federal directives, sparking legal and political disputes. The controversy has intensified opposition from Republicans and some female athletes who claim their opportunities are being compromised, leading to lawsuits against state officials. The Minnesota State High School League risks losing federal funding if found noncompliant with Title IX requirements.