States, Conservative Groups Sue to Block New Title IX Rule
Katherine Knott
April 30, 2024
Six states and a group of conservative advocacy organizations filed lawsuits Monday to block the Biden administration’s new Title IX rule and accused the Department of Education of acting unlawfully and overreaching.
In two lawsuits filed in Louisiana and Alabama, the plaintiffs argued that several changes to the new rule, which was finalized earlier this month, contradict the text and purpose of Title IX. Specifically, they take issue with the Biden administration’s decision to expand the definition of sex-based discrimination to include sexual orientation and gender identity.
The gender-equity law is aimed at protecting students at all levels of federally funded education from sex-based discrimination. The plaintiffs argue that the broader definition will prohibit gender-specific facilities, such as restrooms and locker rooms. They also take issue with changes in the rules that they argue would limit due process for those accused of misconduct.
