California Sues Justice Department Over Transgender Athlete Policy
California has initiated a lawsuit against the Justice Department, challenging a demand that public high schools in the state prevent transgender athletes from participating in girls’ sports. State officials argue that the Justice Department overstepped its authority with these demands.
The lawsuit emphasizes that California’s laws allow athletes to compete in a manner consistent with their gender identity and are in line with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. California officials state that their regulations do not discriminate based on biological sex and ensure fair treatment for all students.
California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed these sentiments, asserting that the federal demands could lead to discrimination against students. The state seeks an injunction against the Justice Department’s mandate, viewing it as unjust pressure on local school districts.
Last week, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon indicated that public school districts must secure written confirmation by June 9 that they will not follow California’s rules regarding gender identity in sports. Dhillon maintained that failing to provide equal opportunities for female students based on sex would violate federal law.
In response, California Attorney General Rob Bonta accused the Biden administration of compelling state school districts to act against established law, emphasizing that such coercion violates the constitutional rights of students.
This legal clash follows a history of tensions between California and federal leadership over educational regulations, particularly concerning policies around transgender athletes. The Justice Department has previously taken action against other states, including Maine, for not adhering to federal guidelines preventing males from competing in girls’ sports.
As the situation unfolds, it highlights the ongoing debate around gender identity in school athletics and the balance between inclusion and fairness in sports.
