Appeals court rejects request to revoke order halting rule aimed at enhancing safeguards for LGBTQ+ students

A federal appeals court upheld a judge’s decision to temporarily halt the Biden administration’s new Title IX rule aimed at providing increased protections for LGBTQ+ students. The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling maintained a preliminary injunction issued in Kentucky, preventing the rule’s enforcement in six states. This legal battle is part of a broader challenge in Republican-led states regarding the expansion of Title IX protections.

The 6th Circuit panel expressed concerns about the Department of Education’s authority regarding the rule’s definition of sex discrimination. The U.S. Education Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the court’s decision. Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman applauded the ruling, describing it as a victory for common sense and emphasizing the importance of maintaining equal opportunities for all students.

Advocacy groups like the Fairness Campaign voiced concerns about the impact of the court’s decision on transgender students, urging schools to protect all students, including transgender individuals, despite the ruling. Numerous Republican state attorneys general have challenged the Biden administration’s Title IX regulation, which is set to take effect on August 1, with enforcement currently on hold in several states.

Legal battles over the Title IX rule are ongoing in a total of 15 states, with 12 states proceeding with enforcement of the regulation. Republicans have raised concerns about the rule’s implications for transgender participation in athletics, a point disputed by the Biden administration. Additionally, the 6th Circuit panel expedited a full hearing of the case for the upcoming fall session.