The U.S. Department of Education has issued a final warning to Maine regarding its failure to comply with Title IX and a related executive order from former President Donald Trump. This order prohibits men from participating in women’s sports and spaces. The warning represents the last step before the Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) refers the case to the Department of Justice.
Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor expressed concern over Maine’s lack of action to protect female athletes. He stated that the Maine Department of Education’s inaction is alarming and allows male competitors to undermine the safety and opportunities of women in sports. Trainor emphasized that the current administration is serious about enforcing federal laws to prevent practices that discriminate against women and girls.
Earlier this year, the Education Department proposed a Resolution Agreement to the Maine Department of Education, giving them a chance to address these Title IX violations voluntarily. However, the state has not taken steps to comply. If Maine fails to sign the agreement by April 11, the case will be escalated to the Justice Department, which could result in the loss of federal education funding for the state.
In a notable exchange earlier this year, Trump confronted Maine Governor Janet Mills during a White House event about her refusal to enforce the law regarding men in women’s sports. Mills asserted her commitment to following state and federal law, to which Trump responded, asserting that federal law must be adhered to or funding would be at risk. The tension between the two leaders was palpable, with Mills suggesting they might end up in court over the issue.
The situation escalated further when reports emerged that Mills’ chief of staff reacted angrily to a Trump official after the event, although Mills’ office denied any inappropriate behavior.
This ongoing dispute highlights the clash between federal mandates and state policies regarding gender in sports, as well as the broader national conversation about Title IX and women’s rights. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Maine to see how it responds to the federal government’s ultimatum.