U.S. Department of Education Rescinds Biden’s Title IX Rule

The U.S. Department of Education announced the formal rescission of the Biden administration’s 2024 Title IX rule, as stated by Education Secretary Linda McMahon in an interview. The decision emphasizes the administration’s belief in reserving girls’ and women’s sports for females.

Linda McMahon reinforced the stance, stating that sports should be divided by gender. The department is reverting to the 2020 regulatory text, nullifying Biden’s rule after courts invalidated it. In January 2025, it was declared that the Trump administration’s regulations would be enforced.

McMahon clarified that this move provides clarity for students, educators, and parents, confirming the current rules for schools to follow. She noted that returning to Trump-era regulations would suffice, without specifying new compliance deadlines.

The 2024 Biden rule had extended Title IX’s protections to cover gender identity, which was subsequently withdrawn at the end of 2024. The Trump administration has continued its Title IX interpretation through various actions, including the enforcement of funding restrictions and Justice Department referrals.

A Title IX Special Investigations Team was established in April 2025, with legal proceedings initiated against Maine for its policy on transgender participation in female sports. Funding recipients identified as high risk must now provide reimbursement for funding use, ensuring compliance with designated spending.

States like Maine, California, and Minnesota risk consequences for not adhering to Title IX, as non-compliance can lead to financial measures and legal referrals.

Female athletes affected by previous losses due to policy changes are eligible for record restoration and apologies, demonstrated by the University of Pennsylvania’s agreement with the Department. Each case will be assessed on individual circumstances.

Parents facing issues related to transgender athletes should seek resolution through school officials and federal reports, with no specific timeline provided for department intervention.

On June 30, 2026, the Supreme Court upheld laws from Idaho and West Virginia limiting female sports to those born female, with Title IX being the basis for these restrictions.

The enforcement of sex-based eligibility in women’s sports is rooted in Title IX, established to ensure equal sporting opportunities for women. Linda McMahon emphasized the statute’s obligatory adherence.