The Biden administration announced new rules to protect LGBTQ+ students and change how claims of sexual harassment and assault on campus are adjudicated.
The new regulations are part of the revised Title IX regulations issued by the Department of Education and fulfill President Biden’s campaign promise to revise regulations issued during the Trump administration.
But the new rules lack a policy that would prohibit schools from enacting outright bans on transgender athletes competing against biological women.
It was widely expected that the Biden administration would introduce such a policy, but instead the provision was put on hold. The delay is widely seen as a political ploy in an election year when Republicans were rallying behind a ban on transgender athletes in women’s sports.
Under the new rules, sex discrimination includes discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Biden also plans to formally rescind sexual assault regulations enacted by his predecessor and opponent in this year’s election, former President Donald Trump.
The final policy drew praise from victim advocacy groups, but Republicans argued it would violate the rights of accused students.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said the new rules “make clear that everyone has access to schools where they are safe, welcome and respect their rights.”
“No one should have to face bullying or discrimination just because of who they are or who they love,” Cardona told reporters. “Unfortunately, things like this happen all too often.”
Biden’s regulations aim to clarify schools’ obligations under Title IX of the Women’s Rights Act of 1972, which makes discrimination based on sex in education illegal. Universities, elementary schools, and high schools that receive funding from the federal government are eligible. This update is scheduled to take effect in August.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This is a developing story. Please check the latest information.
