Federal Judge Blocks Biden's Title IX Rule in Six More States

A federal judge has blocked the Biden administration's new Title IX regulations in six additional states, halting the implementation of the rules in 17 states total. The ruling comes from Judge Robert Summerhays in Idaho, who had previously issued a similar injunction for Idaho and 10 other states. The new Title IX rules, which were finalized in June 2022, aim to protect students from discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment and violence. The rules also expand protections for LGBTQ+ students and require colleges and universities to investigate sexual misconduct allegations more thoroughly. The lawsuit challenging the regulations, filed by several Republican-led states, argues that the rules are overreaching and exceed the authority granted to the Department of Education under Title IX. The judge agreed with the states' argument, finding that the rules are “arbitrary and capricious” and that the department did not adequately consider the potential impact on states and institutions. This latest ruling is another setback for the Biden administration's efforts to implement its Title IX regulations. The administration has faced legal challenges from conservative groups and states who argue that the new rules are too broad and could have unintended consequences for educational institutions.

Summary

"The judge's ruling in Idaho further limits the reach of the Biden administration's Title IX regulations, creating a patchwork of rules across the country and potentially delaying the implementation of protections for students."