The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is investigating Maine's Department of Education and a specific school district for allegedly disregarding a federal executive order concerning transgender athletes participating in girls' and women's sports. The investigations center around claims that Maine continues to permit biological males to compete against biological females, potentially violating Title IX anti-discrimination regulations. This action follows similar investigations initiated in California and Minnesota.
A recent exchange between President Trump and Maine Governor Janet Mills highlighted the tension surrounding this issue. President Trump emphasized that compliance with the executive order is necessary to maintain federal funding, while Governor Mills asserted her commitment to upholding state and federal laws and indicated a willingness to pursue legal action. Governor Mills subsequently released a statement indicating Maine's resolve against perceived intimidation tactics.
The Department of Education underscored that Maine must comply with Title IX to receive federal funding. Acting assistant secretary for civil rights, Craig Trainor, stated that the OCR is committed to ensuring that federal funds do not support institutions that violate civil rights. The investigations also encompass San Jose State University, the University of Pennsylvania, and a Massachusetts high school, focusing on the participation of transgender athletes like Blaire Fleming and Lia Thomas, the latter having won an NCAA Division I title in 2022.
